Question About Designing a Simple Digital Control Circuit

Hop

Joined Feb 14, 2013
9
OP last seen two months ago :rolleyes:
I think "drive by" posters looking for quick answers, not finding what they think they want, and then moving on without interacting with those who try to help is the bane of every "self-help" forum. It shouldn't take two months to figure out that the OP is a drive-by poster. <sigh>
For what it's worth: inexpensive Microchip PIC microprocessors have long ago (at least twenty years ago) replaced dirt-cheap discrete TTL for most tasks requiring a modicum of logic, but not TTL speed. Be aware that the designers of PIC microprocessors always manage to cram in more capability than you will ever need, so it behooves the circuit designer to very carefully read the PIC datasheets before choosing a particular PIC. And if you really NEED TTL speed (like for fast numerical counting or a rapidly changing input), you can add particular chips as "glue logic" to support the PIC.
The main advantage of using a PIC to replace a few TTL chips is one word: programmability. It is a lot easier to write new code than it is to make a new circuit board or re-wrap a wire-wrapped board. The biggest downside is a lack of accessible internal probe points, but there are workarounds for that too. For the newbie: start small. The two PICs suggested by @MaxHeadRoom would be a good start.
Microchip PICs are not new technology. They have been around a long time as support logic for mainframe computer peripherals such as vacuum-column digital tape drives, chain printers, Hollerith card readers and card punchers, etc. Their Harvard architecture can take some getting used to if your microprocessor experience is limited to Von Newmann architecture.
 
Hello everyone,

I’m working on a small digital circuit project and would appreciate some advice from the community.

I’m looking to design a simple control circuit using digital logic components and would like recommendations on the best approach. I’m considering using logic gates, flip-flops, or a small microcontroller depending on the complexity.

My goal is to create a reliable circuit that is easy to troubleshoot and maintain. Are there any design considerations or common mistakes I should watch out for when building digital circuits?

Any suggestions, examples, or guidance would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you!
You did not mention what you want your circuit to do. If it is something for learning purpose, I will suggest transistor-based switch like this.
 

MisterBill2

Joined Jan 23, 2018
28,068
To repeat what has been mentioned a few times, which is BY FAR the most important aspect of every worthwhile design: First, determine the purpose and required results!
THAT needs to come before any selection of technology or architecture choices.
Of course, defining any project is not a trivial exercise at all. Those who have already responded verified that aspect.
 
Top