CGS gate to trigger converter
CGS24 the CGS gate to trigger converter module contains a pair of two gate to trigger converters, allowing key-down gate signals, or those from gate sequencers etc. to be converted into a much narrower trigger signal as required by some percussive effects. These may come in handy when adapting various drum sound generators to synthesizer use.
Works on +/(-)12 volts.
How to use this module
Connect the inputs to a gate source. Connect the outputs to a module that requires a trigger input. For example, all "pulse" outputs of the gate sequencer could be converted to trigger pulses by putting one gate to trigger converter in line with the incoming clock signal.
Alternately, the module can be used as a hard wired adapter when adapting other circuits such as organ rhythm units to synthesizer use.
A little on how it works
Each of the two gate to trigger converter is functionally identically. It consists of a network designed to convert a positive going square or rectangular wave into a brief positive going pulse. An op-amp wired as a comparator cleans and buffers the resultant pulse. The output can be taken directly from the op-amp, or from the optional transistor buffered outputs, as shown in grey on the schematic (first run of PCBs only). One buffer has been omitted from the diagram for clarity.
Construction
Before you start assembly, check the board for etching faults. Look for any shorts between tracks, or open circuits due to over etching. Take this opportunity to sand the edges of the board if needed, removing any splinters or rough edges.
When you are happy with the printed circuit board, construction can proceed as normal, starting with the resistors first, followed by the IC sockets if used, then moving onto the taller components.
Take particular care with the orientation of the polarized components, the electrolytics, diodes, transistors and ICs.
When inserting the ICs in their sockets, take care not to accidentally bend any of the pins under the chip. Also, make sure the notch on the chip is aligned with the notch marked on the PCB overlay.
The optional transistor buffers have been deleted from successive runs of this PCB, so the following only applies if you have boards from the first run: If you decide not to install the optional transistor buffers, a link should be placed from the base (b) to the emitter (e) pads of each transistor position. The 10k pull-down resistors should also be omitted.
Parts list
This is a guide only. Parts needed will vary with individual constructor's needs.
| Part | Quantity |
| Capacitors | |
|---|---|
| 10n | 2 |
| 100n | 1 |
| 10uF 25V | 1 |
| Resistors | |
| 1k | 2 |
| 10k | (2) |
| 15k | 1 |
| 47k | 2 |
| 100k | 5 |
| Semi's | |
| LM358 | 1 |
| 1N4148 | 2 |
| BC547 (or sim) | (2) |
| Misc | |
| Ferrite bead (or 10R resistor) | 1 |
| 0.156 4 pin connector | 1 |
| CGS24 PCB | 1 |
Notes
- VER1.1 PCB is electrically identical to the REV1 PCB. The only difference is the addition of anchor holes for the wiring.
- A 10 to 22 ohm resistor can be used instead of the Ferrite bead. If you don't care about power-rail noise, just use a link instead.
CC-BY-NC
Readers are permitted to construct these circuits for their own personal use only. Ken Stone retains all rights to his work.
See also
References
- Gate to Trigger Converter for music synthesizers. by Ken Stone, 2001, with permission of the author - archived
External links
- CGS24 BOM at BOMpiler
Suppliers
- [1] CGS24 Gate to Trigger Converter, Elby Designs