Hysteresis is an important concept in Schmitt trigger circuits, which are used to convert an analog input signal into a digital output signal. The primary function of a Schmitt trigger is to provide a clear and well-defined digital output signal, transitioning from one voltage level to another in response to changes in the input signal.
To understand hysteresis in Schmitt trigger circuits, let's first discuss the basic operation of a Schmitt trigger. A Schmitt trigger typically consists of a comparator with positive feedback. The positive feedback creates two distinct voltage thresholds, known as the upper threshold (VUT) and the lower threshold (VLT).
When the input signal (Vin) crosses the upper threshold (VUT) in the positive direction, the output (Vout) switches to a high voltage level (often logic HIGH, represented as '1'). When the input signal crosses the lower threshold (VLT) in the negative direction, the output switches to a low voltage level (often logic LOW, represented as '0'). This behavior allows the Schmitt trigger to function as a noise-filtering device, preventing the output from oscillating rapidly when the input signal is near the thresholds.
Now, let's introduce the concept of hysteresis. In a Schmitt trigger circuit, hysteresis refers to the difference between the upper threshold (VUT) and the lower threshold (VLT). This difference is denoted as "hysteresis voltage" (VH), and it plays a critical role in the circuit's functionality.
When the input voltage is increasing, the Schmitt trigger will change its output state when the input voltage reaches the VUT. However, to switch the output back to the original state (e.g., from high to low), the input voltage must decrease below the lower threshold (VLT) minus the hysteresis voltage (VH). In other words, the Schmitt trigger has a "memory" of its previous state, and it needs a voltage difference (hysteresis) to change its output back to the initial state.
The hysteresis effect in Schmitt trigger circuits helps to improve the noise immunity and stability of the circuit by preventing rapid toggling of the output when the input signal is close to the threshold levels. It ensures a clean and well-defined transition from one output state to another, reducing the likelihood of unintended switching due to noise or small fluctuations in the input signal.
In summary, hysteresis in Schmitt trigger circuits provides a window of voltage range between the upper and lower thresholds, ensuring that the output state remains stable until the input voltage crosses the thresholds by a sufficient amount, preventing false triggering and ensuring reliable digital signal conversion.