A window comparator is an electronic circuit or a device used in electronics to compare an input signal against two reference voltage levels (a lower threshold and an upper threshold) and determine whether the input signal falls within a specified range or "window." It essentially acts as a decision-making tool to check if the input signal is within certain limits or outside of them.
The window comparator typically has three output states based on the comparison result:
If the input signal is above the upper threshold: The output is in one state (usually a logic high or a specific voltage level).
If the input signal is below the lower threshold: The output is in another state (often a logic low or another specific voltage level).
If the input signal falls within the window (between the lower and upper thresholds): The output is in a third state (which could be either high or low, depending on the design).
The window comparator finds application in various electronic circuits, particularly in areas where monitoring and controlling signals within specific voltage ranges are essential. Some common applications include voltage monitoring, overvoltage/undervoltage protection, and sensor signal conditioning, where the window comparator can be used to detect whether the sensor output is within a desired range or outside of it, triggering appropriate actions or alarms.
In summary, a window comparator is an electronic circuit that compares an input signal against two reference voltage levels to determine whether the input signal falls within a specified range or window and provides corresponding outputs based on the result.