Difficulty: Medium
Correct Answer: Rint = 2 kΩ, Cext = 0.012 µF
Explanation:
Introduction / Context:
Changing duty cycle at a fixed frequency can be achieved by pulse stretching (or re-timing) with a monostable. The 74121 is a non-retriggerable one-shot whose output width is set by its timing network. Here, we need to expand the high time to 60% while keeping the input frequency at 33 kHz.
Given Data / Assumptions:
Concept / Approach:
Select Rint and Cext such that t_w ≈ desired high time. Using a common approximation t_w ≈ 0.7 * Rint * Cext guides us to an R*C product near th / 0.7.
Step-by-Step Solution:
Verification / Alternative check:
Accounting for component tolerances and the device's K variation, option (b) yields a practical pulse width near the target. Fine-tuning is typically done by slight value adjustments or trimming if required.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
(a) and (c): RC products in the nanoseconds range cannot realize an ~18 µs pulse.
(d): Produces a pulse too long (~33.6 µs), overshooting the 60% target.
Common Pitfalls:
Confusing 74121 timing constant with 555 values; misreading nF vs µF; forgetting frequency–period conversion when converting duty cycles.
Final Answer:
Rint = 2 kΩ, Cext = 0.012 µF
Discussion & Comments