555 timer and beyond

Hi Limster10

The 555 Is nice - it's been a mainstay of electronics for decades! I'm glad you are studying it.

Using it to drive a solenoid is neat idea too. It's hard to give you any specific answer without seeing a schematic of what you're doing. (Even a hand draw sketch is fine!)

Solenoids are inuductive devices, and if you wire it directly to a 555, you stand the chance of damaging the timer chip.
Look at the datasheet for your specific 555 and see what the maximum current source is on the output, and pay specific attention the maximum ratings for the device.

If it were me, I would connect the 555 to a Transistor, or MOSFET to drive the solenoid, with an appropriate diode across the solenoid windings to snub any back-emf.

Kenny thank you for that. I'm looking into using  DIP Transistor or ceramic capacitors. No MOSFET on hand. can cannibalize it from old tech.  to too you back, going to study this odea

Not nearly enough information. What solenoid? Voltage and current? Do you mean you want to use the 555 as a monostable so the solenoid stays on for a minimum time? What if the button is held down longer? Do you want it to keep the solenoid on, then, or always shut off after the monostable time?

You'll almost certainly need a driver transistor (Bipolar or MOSFET) and you WILL need a flyback diode so the inductive kick does not destroy the semiconductors.

Perhaps join Derek over at 'DC to Daylight' where he shows you how to drive a relay coil, do the math, and demonstrates why you may want to use a diode across the coil:

/challenges-projects/element14-presents/dc-to-daylight/w/documents/27565/dc-to-daylight-09-how-electromechanical-relays-work?ICID=dctodaylight-episode-list

/challenges-projects/element14-presents/dc-to-daylight/w/documents/27596/dc-to-daylight-10-using-relays-to-make-a-vegas-style-sign?ICID=dctodaylight-episode-list

As a bonus, a 555 timer makes a guest appearance in the second one.

Hello KennyM, Beacon_dave,AZ7HD and all. thank you much still working on this project. Your insight is very useful and leading.

I am picking up additional clarity when I open small devises I find around.  I open a pair of hair clipper (small size: trimming) and inside was the exact PCB I want to design without my solenoid.

So I'm at the design of implementing wiring for the solenoid, 555 timer to on? Off button.

Please keep your suggestions coming. will keep U updated.

Limster10

That was confusing and didn't clarify anything.

AE7HD,  I am still researching and forming my design.  I am not schooled in this tech.  I am a newbie and building my skill set as I grow.  I am unable to explain with full clarity of what I am to accomplish.   So thank you.  This is and Idea which I have a patent with.

Limster10