IC 4017 – Decade Counter/Divider with 10 Decoded Outputs

IC 4017 – Decade Counter/Divider with 10 Decoded Outputs

Overview

The IC 4017 – Decade Counter/Divider with 10 Decoded Outputs is a widely used decade counter/divider with 10 decoded outputs. It is a part of the CMOS 4000 series integrated circuits and is commonly used in digital circuits for counting, sequencing, and LED chaser applications. The IC 4017 takes a clock input and advances the output to one of its 10 pins sequentially with each clock pulse, making it an ideal choice for applications requiring a one-out-of-ten sequence.

Features

• 10 Decoded Outputs: Provides 10 individual outputs, each corresponding to a stage of the count.
• High Operating Voltage Range: Operates from 3V to 15V, making it versatile for different applications.
• Asynchronous Reset: A reset pin allows the counter to be reset to its initial state, Q0.
• Low Power Consumption: CMOS technology ensures efficient power usage, suitable for battery-powered devices.
• High Noise Immunity: Reliable operation even in electrically noisy environments.
• Carry Out Pin: Allows for cascading multiple 4017 ICs to extend the counting range.
• Standard Pin Configuration: Fits easily into existing CMOS circuit designs.

Pin Configuration

The IC 4017 comes in a 16-pin Dual In-line Package (DIP), with the following pinout:

• Pin 1: Q5 (Output 5)
• Pin 2: Q1 (Output 1)
• Pin 3: Q0 (Output 0, first in the sequence)
• Pin 4: Q2 (Output 2)
• Pin 5: Q6 (Output 6)
• Pin 6: Q7 (Output 7)
• Pin 7: Q3 (Output 3)
• Pin 8: Ground (GND)
• Pin 9: Q8 (Output 8)
• Pin 10: Q4 (Output 4)
• Pin 11: Q9 (Output 9, last in the sequence)
• Pin 12: Carry Out (Used for cascading with another IC 4017)
• Pin 13: Clock Enable (Pauses the counter when high)
• Pin 14: Clock (Triggers the counting process)
• Pin 15: Reset (Asynchronous Reset Input)
• Pin 16: Vcc (Positive Supply Voltage)

Applications

• LED Sequencers/Chasers: The IC 4017 is commonly used to create LED chasers where LEDs light up sequentially with each clock pulse.
• Frequency Divider: Can divide an input clock frequency by 10, useful in timing circuits.
• Event Counter: Counts the number of events, useful in various digital counting applications.
• Motor Control: Can be used to control stepping motors by providing sequential control signals.
• Sequential Timers: Generates a sequence of timed outputs, useful in automation and control systems.

Working Principle

The IC 4017 operates as a decade counter that advances its output each time it receives a clock pulse:

• Clock Input: The counter advances to the next output on the rising edge of the clock signal.
• Reset: When the reset pin is activated, the counter resets to Q0, restarting the sequence.
• Clock Enable: When high, the clock input is ignored, pausing the counting process.
• Carry Out: Goes high after every 10th clock pulse, allowing cascading with another IC 4017 for extended counting sequences.

Example Circuit

• LED Chaser Circuit: Connect LEDs to the outputs Q0 to Q9, with the clock input connected to a pulse generator. As the clock pulses, the LEDs will light up in sequence, creating a chasing effect.
• Frequency Divider: Use the IC 4017 to divide a clock frequency by 10 by using the Q9 output, which pulses once for every 10 clock cycles.
• Event Counter: Count external events by connecting the event signal to the clock input, with each event advancing the count by one.

Advantages

• Ease of Use: The IC 4017 is simple to integrate into digital circuits, making it a popular choice for beginners and professionals alike.
• Versatility: Its wide voltage range and low power consumption make it suitable for a variety of applications.
• Sequential Outputs: Ideal for applications that require a one-out-of-ten sequence, such as LED chasers and sequential timing.
• Cascading Capability: Easily extendable counting range by cascading multiple ICs.

Conclusion

The IC 4017 is a versatile and reliable decade counter that is widely used in digital circuits for a variety of counting, sequencing, and timing applications. Its ease of use, low power consumption, and high noise immunity make it an excellent choice for both educational projects and professional designs. Whether you are building an LED chaser, a frequency divider, or a digital counter, the IC 4017 provides a straightforward and effective solution.

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