onsemi MC14040BCP 12-Stage Binary Counter: Datasheet, Pinout, and Application Circuits

The onsemi MC14040BCP is a monolithic integrated circuit belonging to the MC14000B series of CMOS logic families. It is a 12-stage binary ripple counter featuring a built-in oscillator and the capability to be used in a wide range of applications, from frequency division and time delay generation to complex control sequencers. Its high noise immunity and low power consumption, typical of CMOS technology, make it a versatile choice for both industrial and hobbyist projects.

This counter advances on the negative-going transition of the clock signal (CP1). A key feature is its asynchronous master reset (MR). When a high logic level is applied to the MR pin, it immediately clears all counter stages to zero, independent of the clock input. This provides direct and immediate control over the counting operation.

Datasheet Overview

The MC14040BCP datasheet provides essential specifications for designers. Key absolute maximum ratings include a DC supply voltage range from -0.5V to +18V and an operating temperature range from -55°C to +125°C. Important electrical characteristics outlined are:

Low Power Consumption: Typically 10nW per stage at 5V DC supply.

High Noise Immunity: 1.5V guaranteed for VDD = 5.0V.

Clock Frequency: Typically 4.5 MHz at 5V and 12 MHz at 10V.

The device is offered in a DIP-16 (Dual In-line Package), making it suitable for prototyping on breadboards and for through-hole PCB designs.

Pinout Configuration

Understanding the pinout is crucial for circuit design. The MC14040BCP in a 16-pin package has the following key pins:

1. CP1 (Pin 10): Clock Input. The counter increments on the falling edge of this signal.

2. MR (Pin 11): Master Reset (Active HIGH). Resets all Q outputs to LOW.

3. Q1 - Q12 (Pins 9, 7, 6, 5, 3, 2, 4, 13, 12, 14, 15, 1): The 12 counter stage outputs. Q1 is the least significant bit (LSB), and Q12 is the most significant bit (MSB).

4. VDD (Pin 8): Positive Supply Voltage.

5. VSS (Pin 16): Ground.

Application Circuits

The primary function of the MC14040BCP is frequency division. Each output (Qn) divides the input clock frequency by 2^n. For example, Q1 divides by 2, Q4 divides by 16 (2^4), and Q12 provides a massive division factor of 4096 (2^12).

1. Basic Frequency Divider:

The most straightforward application is dividing a clock signal. The input signal is applied to CP1 (Pin 10). The MR pin is tied to ground to keep it inactive. Any of the Q outputs can be used to obtain a sub-multiple of the input frequency. This is invaluable in digital systems for generating slower clock signals from a master oscillator.

2. Programmable Timer/Sequencer:

By utilizing the asynchronous reset (MR), the counter can be configured as a programmable timer. The outputs are connected through a diode OR network or a logic gate to the MR pin. When the counter reaches a specific value (determined by which outputs are connected), the MR pin is triggered, resetting the counter to zero and starting the count again. This creates a continuous cycle whose period is programmable based on the connection points.

3. Long-Duration Timer:

Combining the MC14040 with a 555 timer IC is a classic design. The 555 is configured as an astable multivibrator to generate a stable clock pulse. This pulse is fed into the MC14040's CP1 input. The high division factors available allow the creation of very long time delays (minutes or hours) from a higher frequency clock, reducing the size of the required timing capacitor significantly.

ICGOODFIND Summary

The onsemi MC14040BCP stands as a highly reliable and fundamental CMOS counter IC. Its 12-stage binary ripple architecture provides extensive division capabilities, while its simple interface (single clock input and master reset) ensures ease of use. Key strengths include its very low power consumption, high noise immunity, and the ability to create programmable timing and sequencing circuits. For designers needing a robust, through-hole counter for frequency division, time delay generation, or complex state control, the MC14040BCP remains an excellent and timeless choice.

Keywords: Frequency Divider, Binary Ripple Counter, CMOS Logic, Programmable Timer, Master Reset.