Comparator

Ok i have heard the way to read those mTouch sensors is by using the comparator on a PIC or w/e. I have seen some code and such but i have no clue as to what exactly does the comparator do.

Can one use a Comparator IC like LM339 to accomplish the same thing?
LM339 - Low Power Low Offset Voltage Quad Comparator

Or is it not possible because the values are changing and one must keep a reference value first?

I have no clue how this works. I would love to make a touch sensor. I have seen it done on bare PCB with some minor etching. Basically the outside is ground and the inside is the tap. And you read it using the comparator of a pic.

Anyone got info? Links? anything besides microchips ANxxxx stuff lol

hi atom,
The CMOS range of digital ic's will give a easier/better 'touch' operation than LM's.

eg: HEF40106, HEF4093 [schmitt types]


**broken link removed**

EDIT:
https://www.electronics-project-design.com/Electronic-Design-Circuits.html