What great read! A pity they didn't outline just why it was called the 555, even though
Hans himself once said the title was arbitrary. Yeah right - I've always favoured the 3 x 5k internal resistor explanation, & pondered why such non preferred values were used. Of course the title wouldn't have been so catchy if billed as a "4k74k74k7" ! For those now rusty on 555 basics perhaps check
sentex.ca for all manner of lucid insights.
So I guess this now gives the "new millenium 555" (& 555 lookalike)
8 pin PICAXEs a clear run ahead? Stan.