Voltage doubler circuit using 555 timer

This voltage doubler circuit utilizes a 555 timer integrated circuit configured as an astable multivibrator. It can deliver a maximum output current of 50mA; exceeding this limit will result in a reduction of the output voltage. The actual output voltage is approximately 22V when supplied with a 12V DC input, although the output voltage tends to be somewhat unstable. For low current applications, this circuit is adequate.

The voltage doubler circuit based on the 555 timer operates by generating a square wave output that is used to charge and discharge capacitors, effectively doubling the input voltage. The 555 timer, when configured as an astable multivibrator, oscillates continuously, creating a pulsed output. This output is then directed to a charge pump configuration, which typically consists of diodes and capacitors.

In this configuration, two diodes are used: one diode allows current to flow during the positive half of the cycle, charging a capacitor to the peak voltage, while the second diode conducts during the negative half, transferring the stored charge to the output capacitor. The capacitors in the circuit must be rated for voltages higher than the expected output to ensure reliability.

The design's limitation to 50mA output current is primarily due to the 555 timer's internal architecture and the characteristics of the passive components used. For applications requiring higher currents, alternative designs or additional stages may be necessary.

It is important to note that the output voltage's stability can be influenced by load variations and component tolerances. To improve performance, filtering capacitors can be added to smooth the output voltage further, and additional regulation may be implemented if a more stable output is required.

Overall, this voltage doubler circuit is suitable for low-power applications where a compact and simple solution is needed to obtain a higher voltage from a lower voltage source.This voltage doubler circuit use a 555 timer integrated circuit wired as an astable mutivibrator. This voltage doubler circuit can deliver only up to 50mA output current and above that current limit the output voltage will be reduced. The actual output voltage will be around 22V for a 12V DC input and also the output voltage will be a bit unstable

. Anyway, for low current applications this circuit is well enough. 🔗 External reference