Astable Multivibrator PCB using 555 Timer

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Objective

Design a single-layer PCB for an astable multivibrator using the LM555-N timer IC.

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Components

• LM555-N Timer IC
• Resistors (1kΩ, 10kΩ, 220Ω)
• Capacitor (1µF)
• LED
• Power Supply (5V–9V)

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Working

The circuit operates in astable mode, generating continuous pulses.
The capacitor charges through resistors and discharges periodically, producing a square wave output.
This output drives the LED, causing it to blink at a fixed interval.

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PCB Design

• Designed using KiCad
• Single-layer target (implementation in progress)
• Component footprints are being assigned and synchronized to PCB

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Applications

• LED flasher circuits
• Pulse generators
• Clock signal circuits
• Timing applications

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Project Structure

Astable_555_PCB/
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|-- Astable_555_PCB.kicad_sch
|-- Astable_555_PCB.kicad_pcb
|-- Astable_555_PCB.kicad_pro
|-- Astable_555_PCB.kicad_prl
|-- ERC.rpt
|-- report.txt
|-- readme.md
`-- Astable_555_PCB-backups/

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Current Gaps

• Complete footprint assignment for all schematic components
• Update PCB from schematic and place all footprints
• Route board and define Edge.Cuts outline
• Re-run ERC/DRC until there are no blocking errors
• Export manufacturing files (Gerber + drill), BOM, and assembly data

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Future Improvements

• Perform circuit simulation
• Fabricate and test the PCB
• Add silkscreen labels for clarity

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Automation

To make release prep repeatable, this project includes a PowerShell packaging script:

• Script: scripts/package_release.ps1
• Purpose: Validates required project files, gathers optional outputs (ERC/report/Gerbers/drill/BOM-like files), and creates a timestamped ZIP with a manifest.