Oscillator

An oscillator is a pattern that is a predecessor of itself. That is, it is a pattern that repeats itself after a fixed number of generations (known as its period). The term is usually restricted to non-stable finite patterns. An oscillator is divided into a rotor and a stator.

In general cellular automaton theory the term oscillator usually covers spaceships as well, but this usage is not normal in Life.

See also

• Omniperiodic