Simple Decimal Counter Circuit

Instead of counting events in binary (0 to 1), a simple decimal counter circuit counts events in base-10 (0 to 9).

To create one, there is just one primary method:

Employing an IC Decade Counter:

This method is better suitable for beginners.

Dedicated decimal counting IC such as the 4017 are easily obtainable and comprise a decade counter.

These IC is simple to install and call for fewer external components.

The IC itself handles the core counting operation, you will still need some resistors and maybe LED displays to show the count.

However, employing a decade counter IC is a more effective method for the majority of real world applications.

Circuit Working:

Parts List:

This article uses a particular IC 4017 to look deeply into the technical intricacies of a decade counter circuit.

Circuit for Decimal Counting:

A circuit that, unlike computers counts events such as button pushes rather than only 0s and 1s.

This decade counter shows counts ranging from 0 to 9 and tracks in base-10.

Construction Alternatives:

This counter may be built through decade counter IC.

An integrated circuit IC made especially for decimal counting such as the well known IC 4017, is used in a more user friendly method.

Because these ICs do the counting inside, less external parts are needed.

Usability:

The clock signal, which is often a button press is what the counter uses to start counting.

This signal causes the counters internal state to increase usually resulting in the count being shown on LEDs.

Information :

Pin Functions:

Describes the function of each pin, such as the carry out pin 12 that cascades numerous counters for increased capacity and the clock enable pin 13 that controls counting.

Emphasizing the binary outputs pins 3, 2, 4 etc. that indicate the count digitally and the clock input that receives the counting signal.

To power the LED display, this binary output would need to be decoded.

Reset:

Bringing up the master reset feature, which resets the counter to zero at any time (probably without specifying the pin).

Recognizing the Fundamentals:

Although the specifics of the chip are important for constructing the circuit, the key idea is that a decade counter records events in base-10.

This feature may be built using logic gates on your own, or for a simpler solution, you can use a commonly available decade counter integrated circuit.

Formulas:

There is just a general formula for LEDs when creating a Decimal Counter Circuit utilizing the IC 4017:

LED Current Limiting:

The amount of current that passes through an LED when it illuminates is determined by the resistor value connected in series with the LED.

Ohms law, which states that R = V/I, is commonly used to determine this.

where,

• V is the voltage drop across the resistor, which is the supply voltage less the LEDs forward voltage
• I is the intended current through the LED, which is usually 20 mA for a conventional LED.

LED Resistor formula:

Considering a 5V supply voltage, a 2V forward voltage drop in your LED, and a 20mA desired throughput across the LED:

R= ​V_supply​−V_LED​​ / I_LED

where,

• Vsupply: This is the voltage that the circuit receives as a supply, usually from a power source such as a battery or power supply unit.
• VLED: This stands for the voltage drop across the LED in the forward direction.
• The voltage drop of each LED varies according on its kind and color.
• For instance, when conducting electricity, a red LED may have a forward voltage drop of between 1.8 and 2.2 V.
• ILED: The current passing through the LED is what is intended.
• The normal working current of most common LEDs is around 20mA (milliamperes), although the exact value may vary based on the LEDs specs

Note:

By choosing and calculating the resistor correctly, you can make sure that the LED stays within its safe current rating and avoid damage from excessive current flow.

This computation is essential for ensuring the lifetime and best possible performance of any circuit that uses LEDs.

How to Build:

To build a Simple Decimal Counter Circuit follow the below mentioned steps for connections:

• Assemble all the components parts mentioned in the above circuit diagram.
• Connect pin 1 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 2.
• Connect pin 2 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 6.
• Connect pin 3 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 7.
• Connect pin 4 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 5.
• Connect pin 5 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 1.
• Connect pin 6 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 0.
• Connect pin 7 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 4.
• Connect pin 8, pin 13, pin 15 of IC 4017 to ground.
• Connect pin 10 of IC 4017 to anode of LED 3.
• Connect cathode of all the LEDs 0-7 to ground through resistor R2
• Connect pin 14 of IC 4017 to one terminal of the push button through resistor R1, connect the other terminal of push button to the positive supply of +5V.
• Connect the capacitor C1 across the push button terminal.

Safety Measures:

• As you acquire skill start with a basic circuit and progressively increase complexity.
• Before turning the circuit on, make sure all of your connections are secure.
• To make troubleshooting easier mark cables and component parts clearly.
• Keep a fire extinguisher close at hand in case something unanticipated happens.
• You may reduce the possibility of mishaps when working on your decimal counter circuit by adhering to these safety precautions.
• In case you have any doubts regarding the circuit or electrical safety procedures overall, it is advisable to get advice from an individual with more expertise.

Conclusion:

To conclude, a decimal counter circuit records data using the well known base-10 scheme (0 to 9).

Using widely available decade counter ICs, you may construct one from scratch using logic gates for a more in depth knowledge, or use a simpler method.

Keep in mind that safety comes first when working on your circuit and adhere to the correct procedures for electrical labs.

References:

The schematic diagram of the a decimal counter 

Counter (digital)