Wien Bridge Oscillator Frequency
f = 1 / (2π · R · C)
Quick answer
This calculator solves f = 1 / (2π × R × C) for Frequency. With Resistance 10 kΩ, Capacitance 100 nF, the result is 0.1592 kHz. It solves in 3 directions, so you can enter the values you have and get the one you need.
Calculator
Formula
Description
The Wien bridge oscillator produces a low-distortion sine wave at a frequency set by equal RC sections in a series-parallel feedback network. At this frequency the network has zero phase shift and an attenuation of exactly 1/3, so an amplifier with a gain of 3 sustains oscillation. It is the classic audio-frequency sine source and the basis of many function generators.
Variables
- f — Oscillation frequency (Hz)
- R — Resistance of each RC section (Ω)
- C — Capacitance of each RC section (F)
Practical Notes
Needs amplitude stabilisation (a lamp, JFET, or AGC) to hold gain at exactly 3—too little and it stops, too much and it clips. Use matched, stable R and C for accurate frequency.
Symbols and units
| Symbol | Meaning | Default unit | Accepted units |
|---|---|---|---|
| f | Frequency | kHz | Hz, kHz, MHz, GHz |
| R | Resistance | kΩ | mΩ, Ω, kΩ, MΩ |
| C | Capacitance | nF | pF, nF, µF, mF, F |
Step by step
- 1. What you know: Resistance 10 kΩ, Capacitance 100 nF
- 2. The relation: f = 1 / (2π × R × C)
- 3. Substitute: R = 10 kΩ, C = 100 nF
- 4. Result: Frequency = 0.1592 kHz
Worked examples
Minimum range
Given: Resistance 100 Ω, Capacitance 100 pF
Result: Frequency = 15.92 MHz
Low range
Given: Resistance 1 kΩ, Capacitance 1 nF
Result: Frequency = 0.1592 MHz
Typical
Given: Resistance 10 kΩ, Capacitance 100 nF
Result: Frequency = 0.1592 kHz
High range
Given: Resistance 100 kΩ, Capacitance 1 µF
Result: Frequency = 1.592 Hz
Maximum range
Given: Resistance 1 MΩ, Capacitance 10 µF
Result: Frequency = 0.01592 Hz
Solving for each variable
Solve for Frequency
Resistance 100 Ω, Capacitance 100 pF → 15.92 MHz
Solve for Resistance
Frequency 100 Hz, Capacitance 100 pF → 15.92 MΩ
Solve for Capacitance
Frequency 100 Hz, Resistance 100 Ω → 15.92 µF
How Frequency changes with Resistance
| Resistance (input) | Frequency (result) |
|---|---|
| 1 kΩ | 1.592 kHz |
| 2.5 kΩ | 0.6366 kHz |
| 5 kΩ | 0.3183 kHz |
| 7.5 kΩ | 0.2122 kHz |
| 10 kΩ | 0.1592 kHz |
| 15 kΩ | 106.1 Hz |
| 20 kΩ | 79.58 Hz |
| 40 kΩ | 39.79 Hz |
| 70 kΩ | 22.74 Hz |
| 100 kΩ | 15.92 Hz |
The same result in other units
| Unit | Value |
|---|---|
| Hz | 159.2 |
| kHz | 0.1592 |
| MHz | 0.0001592 |
Embed this calculator
Paste this into any page. It keeps working when this page updates, and credits the source.
<iframe src="https://vbatpower.com/embed/wien-bridge-oscillator/" width="100%" height="460" style="border:1px solid #1f2a37;border-radius:12px" loading="lazy" title="Wien Bridge Oscillator Frequency"></iframe>
<p><a href="https://vbatpower.com/formulas/wien-bridge-oscillator/">Wien Bridge Oscillator Frequency</a> Calculator by vbatpower.com</p>Frequently asked questions
How do you calculate Wien Bridge Oscillator Frequency?
Use f = 1 / (2π × R × C). With Resistance 10 kΩ, Capacitance 100 nF, Frequency works out to 0.1592 kHz.
What is the formula for Wien Bridge Oscillator Frequency?
The formula is f = 1 / (2π × R × C). The Wien bridge oscillator produces a low-distortion sine wave at a frequency set by equal RC sections in a series-parallel feedback network.
How do you find Resistance when you know the other values?
Rearrange for Resistance: with Frequency 100 Hz, Capacitance 100 pF, Resistance is 15.92 MΩ.
How do you find Capacitance when you know the other values?
Rearrange for Capacitance: with Frequency 100 Hz, Resistance 100 Ω, Capacitance is 15.92 µF.
What units does Wien Bridge Oscillator Frequency use?
Frequency is shown in Hz, kHz, MHz. Values are held in SI base units internally, so you can mix prefixes without converting by hand.
Related Concepts
All Timing & Oscillators formulas →Need more features?
Save calculations, import telemetry data, simulate battery discharge, and collaborate with your team.
Try the App