[sdiy] clock problem

[daryl groetsch]

i use a 555 timer as a master clock for my digital
pattern generator modules (all CMOS +/- 15 V). the
output pin splits into 4 jacks. problem is, when a
cable is coming from one of these jacks and i go to
plug the other end somewhere, when the tip touches the
outside of the jack the clock stops momentarily. in
fact, if i hold it there, the 555 will be damaged. i
tried putting diodes on the outs, but then the other
modules would not respond right. am i running the out
to ground when the tip touches? how can i fix this? if
i made a clock with discreet logic would i still have
this problem?
thank you, 
daryl

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