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The Programmer / Sequencer is a Serge-inspired multi-stage sequencer built around direct stage access rather than counter-based sequencing.
Unlike most sequencers that rely on binary counters or shift registers, each stage here exists as its own independent element. Any stage can be addressed directly, allowing for a more flexible and “random access” approach to sequencing.
Historically, early Serge systems used a CD4017 decade counter to generate gate pulses, which were then routed into a multi-stage programmer to produce control voltages. These programmers were typically arranged in small groups, with only one stage active at a time, sending its programmed voltage to a shared output bus. Stage selection could be handled either by incoming pulses or by pressing panel buttons.
This module builds on that programmer concept and extends it into a more open-ended sequencing tool.
Sequencing & Control
The module does not require a traditional clock, but it does require pulses to advance.
UP and DOWN inputs accept pulses that step the sequence forward or backward
Both inputs can be used at the same time for more complex behavior
Any stage can be activated directly via its Stage Address input or panel button
Once a stage is selected, incoming UP or DOWN pulses will continue stepping from that point.
Each stage also provides its own gate output, making it easy to derive timing, trigger events, or patch custom sequence logic.
Patch-Defined Sequence Length
There is no fixed sequence length. Instead, sequences are defined through patching.
By routing the gate output of any stage back into the address input of another stage, you can create loops of any length or structure. The “first” stage in a sequence does not need to be the first stage on the panel. This allows for:
Intro sections that play once
Loops that begin mid-panel
Non-linear or branching sequences
The structure is entirely determined by how you patch it.
How it works
Each stage shares a common current bus (Bus “C”), which acts as a priority system.
Only one stage can be active at a time. When a new stage is triggered, it takes control of the current source, forcing the previously active stage to reset. This keeps transitions clean without relying on digital counters or scanning logic.
Each stage also contains its own pulse generation circuitry for UP and DOWN operation. These circuits are only active while that stage is selected. When an UP or DOWN pulse is received, the active stage generates a trigger to the next or previous stage accordingly.
Outputs
Per-Stage Gate Outputs
Each stage provides a dedicated gate output for patching, sequencing logic, or event generationCPO (Common Pulse Out)
Goes high while a stage button is held. Effectively a manual gate outputAEP (All Event Pulse)
Outputs a trigger whenever the active stage changes
In practice
This sits somewhere between a programmer and a sequencer. It’s less about fixed-step clocked patterns and more about control, interaction, and patch-defined structure.
It excels at:
Non-linear sequencing
Direct stage addressing
Patch-programmed sequence lengths
Complex stepping using UP and DOWN pulse control
A very “Serge way” of thinking about sequencing, where the patch defines the behavior.
Features:
Multi-Stage Programmable Sequencer
4 rows of CV ranging 0-8V output
Stage Address Inputs
Stage Gate Outputs
Dedicated Up and Down advance inputs
Common Pulse Output - Outputs a gate anytime a button is pressed
All Event Output - Outputs a Gate anytime stages change
Stage Address Buttons
LGE059 = stage pcb
LGE059-4 = 4 stage pcb
LGE059C = Output Buffer PCB (latest rev 1.2, includes all of the updates and optional voltage range resistors)
LGE059D = I/O Board PCB (This includes the optional voltage range switches)
** 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.
Build Documentation:
When building the programmer in a 4, 8 or 16 stage configuration, I recommend using the LGE059-4 (4 stage) pcb to simpify the build.
You can pair the 4 stage with single stages for other configurations like 5-7 stage or 9-15 stages. You can also just use individual stages to
build any number of stage programmer you want. It’s your choice how you would like to build it!
LGE059-4 Stage Main PCB
LGE059-4 Bill of Materials
LGE059-4 PCB Layout Top w/ Designators
LGE059-4 PCB Layout Bottom w/ Designators
LGE059-4 Schematic
LGE059-4 Panel Art
White Panel (Range Switches)(Single Stage PCB)
LGE059 Bill of Materials (Single Stage PCB)
LGE059 PCB Layout w/ Desginators
LGE059 Schematic
LGE059C V3 Output Buffer PCB Bill of Materials
LGE059C V3 Output Buffer PCB Layout w/ Designators
LGE059C V3 Output Buffer PCB Schematic
LGE059D Buffer I/O PCB Bill of Materials
LGE059D Buffer I/O PCB Layout w/ Designators
LGE059D Buffer I/O PCB Schematic
Blue Panel (no range switches) (Single Stage PCB)(No longer in production)
LGE059 Bill of Materials (Single Stage PCB)
LGE059 PCB Layout w/ Designators (Single Stage PCB)
LGE059 Schematic
LGE059C Bill of Materials (v1.2: updated 09/18/23, up/down advance fix, output voltage mod, speed stability mod)
LGE059C PCB Layout w/ Designators
LGE059C Schematic (v1.2: updated 09/18/23, up/down advance fix, output voltage mod, speed stability mod)
Mechanical Parts BOM generally required for building Low-Gain Electronics Modules
Details:
PCB Size: 6” x 2”
Current Draw: TBD