TV Tech Basics: Oscillators vs. Multivibrators

[peter scott]

Hi Alan,

An oscillator is normally a gain element (amplifier) with some positive feedback that only feeds the frequency required. The output is normally a sine wave but it can provide other wave shapes.

A multivibrator is normally two inverting elements ( transistors or valves) that are cross coupled so that a state change on one element forces an opposite state change in the other element. The cross couplings provide a little delay that determines the frequency of operation. The output is normally a square or pulse wave.

HTH

Peter