Divide by N Comparator (NCOM)

From the original catalogue:
”The '/" N COMPARATOR (NCOM) consists of two sections : a comparator and a voltage-controlled pulse divider . The divider section outputs a pulse once every "N" comparator pulse, where "N" is a number from 1 to 31, settable with a control voltage at the divider's VC input (or manually via the divider's control knob) . Additionally, the Divider outputs a staircase wave with "N" steps. This will produce whole-tone steps when plugged into the 1 V/Oct input of a VCO . This module has two distinct areas of use (in addition to the normal functions o+ the comparator) .

For audio frequencies, the divider can be set to Output sub-divided frequencies with digital precision . Output frequency depends on "N" . If "N"= ` 3,4, etc ., the output frequencies will be an octave, an octave and a fifth . Or two octaves below the input, repectively . Because "N" is voltage controllable, arpeggios and various melodies can easily be programmed . The nature of this type of division (integer division), results in frequencies that fall along the sub--harmonic series, a series that has great tonal charm .

For sub--audio frequencies, the divider acts like a counter, outputting a pulse only after "N" number of input Pulse= . Input pulse's can be fairly random, or regUlar . This capability is especially powerful for determining tempos and rhythmic patterns when using several sequencers (especiall "; if the "N" vc input is taken from one of a Sequencer's rows of controls) . In a more random Situation, using a microphone preamp/detector as input, the divider might. be set to count how many timF,?s a Sound Of a certain loudness will have occured, and be set to trigger an event upon reaching the count . Since the Count can be made variable (from 1 to 31), fairly compie ;c and subtle intE-r-actions can be generated.”

Divide by N / Comparator DIY module documentation:
LGE205 Bill Of Materials v1.3
LGE205 Schematic v1.3
LGE205 Main PCB w/ Designators v1.3
LGE205C Bill of Materials v1.4
LGE205C Schematic v1.4
LGE205C I/O Board w/ Designators v1.4
LGE205 Panel Art PDF

Mechanical Parts BOM generally required for building Low-Gain Electronics Modules

Setup for Divide by 'N' Comparator:

Check out the operation of this module by applying the sawtooth wave from an oscillator to the IN- input on the comparator section.
Listen to the Comparator OUT, and turn the Comparator Knob. From about the 12 o'clock position to about 5 o'clock,
the control should vary the pulse width from zero to full. The sound will cut off below and above these positions.
With the control set for a narrow pulse width (just above the 12 o'clock position), plug the output from a slowly
varying Positive control voltage into the IN+ input of the Comparator. The pulse width should be controlled from
minimum to maxi mum without cutting the sound off at either end of the VC control. Adjust the knob slightly
if the sound cuts off at either extreme.

Disconnect the VC from the IN+ and set the knob to about 2 o'clock.
Monitor the OUT ÷. Turn the Divider control (top knob) fully CCW. Turn the oscillator frequency up to a fairly
high pitch, and turn the Divider control up. The pitch will step through the sub-harmonic series. Turn the
knob fully CCW again and apply a varying VC to the VC IN of the top section. Listen for voltage control
of this division. Note that the setting of the comparator knob or VC of the Comparator section will control the pulse
width at the output of the divider section.

The STEPPED OUT is a staircase wave with the number of steps proportional to the division setting.

** 4U Modular is a term used for the format most commonly known as “Serge Format” or “Loudest Warning Format”. Out of respect for the ever growing format, 4U Modular is the easiest way to refer to it. More Specifically it refers to the panel height and mounting hole style. 4U Modular will patch up just fine with other 4U "Serge" formats such as "Random Source", but it will not mount in RS boats or Buchla Boats (or power off Buchla power for that matter). An info page about this will be added to the website soon to make this a lot more easy to understand.