AC Filters & Resonance

RC Pulse Differentiator & Clock Edge Detector Simulator

Extract sharp positive and negative trigger spikes from digital clock edges using a short-time-constant RC high-pass network.

Speed
Blocks DC and attenuates low frequencies while passing rapid transitions across the load resistor (CH2 leads CH1 in phase).
● CH1: CH1
● CH2: CH2

Engineering Theory & Mathematical Model

Vout(t) ≈ R × C × (dVin / dt) (for τ ≪ T/2)

With a small time constant τ = RC relative to pulse width, the coupling capacitor charges almost instantly after each voltage jump, producing brief positive spikes on rising edges and negative spikes on falling edges.

Interactive Lab Procedure

  1. Select VAC1 and switch Waveform to "Square" at 80 Hz.
  2. Decrease C1 from 1.5 µF to 0.22 µF in the Inspector to sharpen the edge trigger spikes on CH2!
  3. Observe how steady flat intervals produce 0V output.

Technical FAQ

What is the core governing formula for RC Pulse Differentiator & Clock Edge Detector Simulator?

Vout(t) ≈ R × C × (dVin / dt) (for τ ≪ T/2) — With a small time constant τ = RC relative to pulse width, the coupling capacitor charges almost instantly after each voltage jump, producing brief positive spikes on rising edges and negative spikes on falling edges.

Can I modify component values and rewire this circuit live?

Yes! The schematic above runs a live MNA SPICE engine. Click any part to adjust parameters, add or delete wires and components, and click Share URL to save your custom topology.

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