Comparing Schmitt Trigger vs Comparator
Integrated circuits have made tremendous advancements in the world of electronics. Almost every application involves the use of integrated circuits. Schmitt trigger and comparator are two important integrated circuits used in the field of digital electronics. In this comparison, we will analyze both Schmitt trigger and comparator in great detail to understand their differences and similarities.
What is a Schmitt Trigger?
Schmitt trigger is a type of comparator circuit that uses positive feedback to achieve hysteresis. Hysteresis is the property of a circuit that depends on its past history. Schmitt trigger is widely used in digital circuits to condition the signal and remove noise from the output signal. The Schmitt trigger has two threshold voltage levels, i.e., upper and lower thresholds. The input signal is compared with the upper threshold voltage level, and if the signal voltage is greater than the upper threshold voltage level, the output voltage will be high. Similarly, if the input voltage is lower than the lower threshold voltage level, then the output voltage will be low.
What is a Comparator?
A comparator is another type of amplifier used in the field of electronics to compare the input signal's amplitude to a specific reference level. Comparators are used to compare two analog voltages or to convert an analog signal to a digital signal. The output of a comparator is a digital waveform with two voltage levels, i.e., high and low.
Comparison between Schmitt Trigger and Comparator
The following table summarizes the main differences between Schmitt trigger and comparator:
| Feature | Schmitt Trigger | Comparator |
|---|---|---|
| Function | It is used to convert an analog input to a digital output. | It compares two analog input signals. |
| Hysteresis | It has two threshold levels, i.e., upper and lower threshold. | It has no hysteresis. |
| Output | The output voltage is either high or low. | The output voltage is a digital waveform with high and low levels |
| Noise Sensitivity | It is less sensitive to noise as compared to the comparator | It is more sensitive to noise as compared to the Schmitt trigger |
As we can see from the above table, both Schmitt trigger and comparator have different functions and properties. Schmitt trigger is used to convert the analog input signal to a digital output signal, while a comparator is used to compare two input signals.
Which one to choose?
The choice between Schmitt trigger and comparator depends on the application requirements. If the input signal is noisy and we want to remove noise from the input signal, Schmitt trigger is the best option. On the other hand, if we want to compare two input signals and convert an analog signal to a digital signal, then a comparator is the best option.
Conclusion
Schmitt trigger and comparator are two important integrated circuits used in the field of digital electronics. We have discussed the differences between the two circuits based on their functionalities, hysteresis, output, and sensitivity towards noise. While both circuits are used for different applications, the choice between them depends on the specific requirements of the application.
References:
- Horowitz, P., Hill, W. (2015). The Art of Electronics. Cambridge University Press.
- Smith, K. (2017). Electronics for Dummies. John Wiley & Sons.