The Ultimate Guide to CD4017 Decade Counter IC: Datasheet & Its Application

Whether you're a novice looking to delve into electronics or a seasoned enthusiast, the CD4017 integrated circuit offers a versatile decade counter capable of counting up to ten. Boasting ten outputs corresponding to numbers 0 to 9, this counter increments with each rising clock pulse. Once it reaches 9, it seamlessly loops back to 0 on the subsequent clock pulse, making it an ideal component for more extensive projects too! In this new technology article, we'll explore comprehensive insights into Texas Instruments' CD4017, covering its equivalent, datasheet, pinout, circuit diagram, pricing, and other crucial details.

What is an IC 4017 Decade Counter?

The CD4017 IC is a CMOS Decade counter primarily employed in low-range counting applications. With its ability to count from 0 to 10, this IC is efficient in saving board space and reducing circuit design time when used in conjunction with an IC 4017. This decade counter bears a resemblance to the Johnson 10-stage decade counter. Frequently chosen for designing circuits involving 10 LEDs, it offers a user-friendly lighting solution for beginners. As one of the most adaptable counters available, it facilitates counting up to 10 while featuring 10 distinct outputs. Notably, this IC combines both counter and decoder functionalities.

CD4017 Pinout

A CMOS decade counter like 4017 IC, incorporates a 5-stage Johnson counter alongside 10 decoded outputs to enable counting up to 10 decimal values. With 16 pins in total, this IC dedicates 10 and 16 pins to serve as output pins, each with its specific functionality, outlined as follows:

Pin Name	Pin #	Type	Description
VDD	16	Power	Supply Voltage (+3 to +15V)
GND	8	Power	Ground (0V)
Q0-Q9	1-7 and 9-11	Output	Qx is high when the counter is x
CO	12	Output	Carry Out. Goes high after ten clock pulses
CI	13	Input	Clock Inhibit. Ignores clock inputs
CLK	14	Input	Clock Input. Increases the counter with one
MR	15	Input	Resets the counter to 0

                                                                             Pin configuration overview for the 4017 IC

Understanding Pinout Functions of IC 4017

Let's delve into the detailed pinout functions of IC 4017, especially from the perspective of someone new to the field. Observing the diagram, we notice that the device is a 16-pin DIL IC, with the pinout numbers indicated alongside their corresponding assignment names.

What do Logic High, Logic Low Mean

The pins marked as outputs undergo a sequential logic "high" state in response to clock signals at pin#14 of the IC.

In this context, "logic high" denotes reaching a positive supply voltage value, while "logic low" signifies attaining a zero voltage value.

Upon initial power-up of the IC 4017, it undergoes a reset, causing a default logic high at pin#3. The reset process will be discussed in subsequent paragraphs.

At this stage, when the first clock pulse is applied at pin#14, the existing logic high at pin#3 shifts to the next pinout, pin#2. This logic high persists on pin#2 until the subsequent clock signal at pin#14, prompting the high logic at pin#2 to move to the next output pinout, pin#4. This sequential logic high progression continues until it reaches the last pinout, pin#11. Afterward, the logic high sequence returns to pin#3, and the cycle repeats.

What is the Output pin Sequencing order?

To be specific, the sequence progresses through the pinouts: 3, 2, 4, 7, 10, 1, 5, 6, 9, 11...

Once it reaches pin#11, the IC undergoes internal resetting, returning the logic high to pin#3 to initiate the cycle again.

Each Pin Function

1. Power Supply(Pin 16) and Ground(Pin 8) Pins

Pin 16 serves as the positive power supply, and Pin 8 is designated as the ground.

The power supply voltage can range from 3 volts to 16 volts, but it's crucial not to exceed 18 volts as the maximum limit.

2. Clock Control - Pin 13

Pin 13 functions as the Clock Enable pin, allowing control over the clock.

• When set to "0" logic, the clock becomes enabled, and the counter advances with each clock pulse.

• In contrast, when set to "1" logic, the clock input halts, causing the counter to remain inactive even in the presence of clock pulses.

3. Clock Input for Counting - Pin 14

Pin 14 is responsible for receiving the clock input to trigger a count.

It's essential for the clock pulse to be stable and free from interference; otherwise, the counter may register multiple counts within a single clock pulse.

The counter counts on the rising edge of the clock signal.

4. Reset Function - Pin 15

Pin 15, typically set to "0" logic, serves as the reset pin. When switched to "1" logic, it resets the counter to "0."

5. Decoded Output Pins - Pins 1-7 and 9-11

Pins 1-7 and 9-11 are the decoded output pins.

If one of the output pins is in the "High" state, the remaining pins will remain in the "Low" state.

The first output, labeled as "0," is associated with LED1. This labeling simplifies its use as a numerical counter.

When the counter reaches "9," it cycles back to "0."

6. Carry-Out Function - Pin 12

Pin 12 is the carry-out pin. It transfers the clock input to an additional counter or an external circuit, allowing the counting process to continue seamlessly.

CD4017 IC Features

The primary characteristics and specifications of IC 4017 encompass the following aspects:

●The IC 4017 operates within a supply voltage range of 3V to 15V, typically set at +5V.

●It exhibits compatibility with Transistor-Transistor Logic (TTL).

●The operational speed or CLK speed for this IC is 5 MHz.

●This IC supports 10 decoded outputs.

●Various package options include 16-pin GDIP, PDIP, and PDSO.

●Input high time is approximately 30 ns.

●The output current is rated at 10 mA.

●It boasts high noise immunity, usually around 0.45 VDD.

●The operation of the IC is entirely static.

●With low power consumption of about 10 µW.

●The medium speed operation reaches 5.0 MHz at 10V VDD.

●The input voltage or Vin range spans from −0.5 VDC to VDD +0.5 VDC.

●Storage Temperature (TS) ranges from −65°C to +150°C.

●DC Supply Voltage (VDD) varies from −0.5 VDC to +18 VDC.

●The Power Dissipation (PD) for the Dual-In-Line package is 700 mW.

●The Lead Temperature (TL) is 260°C.

This IC 4017, a versatile and valuable decade counter, finds widespread application in various electronic circuits. Often referred to as the "Johnson 10 stage decade counter divider," it effectively uses its 10 outputs to produce a high signal in series response to each high CLK pulse received at its input CLK pinout. As a result, all outputs undergo a single cycle of high-output sequencing, corresponding to 10 CLKs provided at its input. True to its name, the IC counts and diverts the input CLK into 10 distinct parts.

Note: Comprehensive technical details can be available in the CD4017 datasheet provided at the end of this page.

Where to Use IC CD4017?

The versatile IC CD4017 finds numerous applications, some of which are listed below:

●Widely acclaimed as one of the most popular ICs, CD4017 is extensively used in various applications, including Decoder, Binary counter, Frequency division, and Decade counter. It is also the foundation for diverse electronics projects, such as Remote-controlled Switch, Light Chaser, Touch ON-OFF switch, Alarm, Matrix Die, Clap switch, and more.

●This decade counter IC has had widespread adoption in different industries, including automotive, alarms, and electronic manufacturing of medical instruments and instrumentation devices.

●The IC is particularly valuable for counting applications, capable of sequentially switching ON 10 outputs within a predetermined time or resetting the count as required. Additionally, it provides a Carry pin to indicate the counting status, which proves useful in LED chasers and other logical output projects. If you're seeking a sequential decoded counting IC to count up to 10, this is the ideal choice.

Timing Diagram

To extend the counting capability to 20, you can cascade two ICs. Likewise, this range can be further expanded to 30, 40, and so on, up to 10N numbers. Cascading is achieved through the Carry Out pin, which is initially set to LOW. However, when the count reaches 10, this pin goes HIGH. It remains HIGH for 5 counts before returning to 0 volts. Once the count reaches 10 again, the pin goes HIGH once more. The timing diagram illustrates the behavior of all the outputs under different inputs, as shown below:

Counting Operation of CD4017 using Waveforms

The timing diagram for the CD4017 provides valuable insights into the comparison and counting sequence of the outputs as they transition from one pin to the next.

Prior to applying the clock signal, it's important to note that the RESET is set to a High state. This action resets all the outputs to their initial state.

Consequently, the first output at pin 3 goes high. Subsequently, this high output shifts to the next output pin, and this sequential progression persists until the arrival of the subsequent clock cycle.

Working of CD4017 Circuit

CD4017 Decade Counter Circuit Diagram

Pressing the switch initiates the counter from zero, and it advances by one with each positive pulse received at pin 14. When the switch is first pressed, LED2 illuminates. Subsequent presses make LED1 glow, marking the second output. This pattern continues with LED3 and LED4. However, once you reach Q9 output, pressing the switch will no longer light up any LED because it counts up to Q9 and resets (achieved by connecting pin 11 to reset pin 15).

To ensure the counter resets to zero when the circuit is powered on, C2 and R3 are connected to the reset pin 15. Setting pin 15 high and then low resets the counter. C2 is employed to raise the voltage level on pin 15, while R3 is used to bring it back to a low state. Additionally, a diode is placed between pin 11 and 15 to toggle pin 11 low and pin 15 high, facilitating a counter restart.

CMOS ICs have rapid switching capabilities, which can lead to contact bounce causing the switch to generate multiple pulses in quick succession. To ensure only one clock pulse is delivered at a time, C3 and R4 introduce a short delay. Thus, when the switch is pressed, it provides a high signal to pin 14, maintaining it until the switch is pressed again.

Working Principle of CD4017

The Clock Pulse

The heart of CD4017 is the clock pulse. Each clock pulse shifts the 'high' state in sequence from one output pin to the next.

Resetting Mechanism

Another feature is the reset pin. When triggered, it resets the count to the beginning, giving you control over the loop.

Output

The output pins are where the action happens. Each pin goes 'high' in sequence, creating the count from 0 to 9.

Working Process of CD4017

CD4017 is a versatile integrated circuit with several useful features. Here's a breakdown of its working and functions:

Frequency Division

When you input a 10Hz frequency into Pin 14, CD4017 divides it equally among its 10 outputs. This means that any output, including the first one, can only change its state once per second. This feature makes CD4017 commonly known as a decade counter/divider, as it divides the input frequency by 10. It's important to note that you can modify this division to other values like 5, as explained below.

Output Buffer

Each of the 4017 outputs is equipped with a buffer that can drive an LED. These buffers also serve as gates to isolate the internal components (such as NAND gates) from external circuits. This design enhances the IC's overall efficiency.

Control Pins

CD4017 includes two significant control pins:

• Reset

• Clock ENABLE (Clock inhibit)

These pins are used for control purposes and need to be connected either to a "high" or "low" state. Leaving them floating is not recommended. This guideline specifically pertains to the reset and clock inhibit pins.

Reset Pin

When connected to "low" (Vss), CD4017 counts through all 10 outputs.

If you provide a voltage exceeding 2/3 of VDD (e.g., 6V) or a short-duration pulse to the reset pin, it resets the counting process to the first 

state (Pin 3).

Maintaining the reset pin in a "high" state keeps the counter at its initial state (Pin 3).

Clock Enable Pin (Clock Inhibit)

When the Clock Enable pin is connected to "low," the IC counts through all 10 outputs.

On the other hand, if it's set to "high," the counter pauses at the current output it's counting.

Typically, pin 13 is connected to ground to enable continuous counting.

Stabilizing Control Pins

To prevent voltage spikes from affecting the control pins, it's advisable to add resistors R1 and R2 (each with values between 100K and 1M) at these pins. 

This reduces their impedance and minimizes the chances of unwanted noise interference.

N-Frequency Division / Divide-by-N Function

CD4017 allows flexible frequency division. For example:

Divide-by-9

To divide-by-9, connect output 10 to the reset pin, causing the counter to count to 9 before resetting.

Divide-by-6

To achieve a divide-by-6 circuit, connect the 7th output to Pin 15 (reset), making the counter count to 6 before resetting.

Divide-by-N

For a divide-by-N circuit, you must connect the (N + 1) output to the reset pin. This feature is valuable when you need adjustable divisions 

or modifications in your circuit.

Keep in mind that for standard divisions, there are alternative ICs available that may be more suitable and cost-effective.

How To Use The CD4017 IC?

To begin, ensure a power supply voltage ranging from 3 to 15V, although some chip versions can support up to 18V. For instance, the HEF4017 recommends a maximum of 15V.

To connect the chip properly, link the VDD pin to the positive terminal and the GND pin to the negative terminal.

The counter advances by one with each rising edge of the Clock (CLK) pin. The output pins (Q0-Q9) progressively go high as the count increases. After the 10th input pulse, the counter resets to 0. To increase the counter, transition this pin from low to high.

If you wish to observe the pin state changes, connect resistors and LEDs to each output pin Q0 to Q9.

The Clock Inhibit (CI) pin disables the counter, causing it to ignore any clock pulse on the CLK pin. To enable the counter, set this pin to low.

When the counter reaches 10, the Carry-out (CO) pin goes from low to high and resets to 0. It remains high for 5 clock pulses before returning to low. If counting beyond 10 is required, connect this pin to the clock input of another decade counter.

CD4017 Example Circuit – Running LEDs

Among the cherished hobbyist projects utilizing this chip is the running LEDs circuit, which operates as follows:

A 555 Timer configured in astable mode transforms into an oscillator circuit, generating a clock signal. This clock signal is then fed into the clock input of the IC 4017. With each rising edge of the clock input, the counter within the 4017 advances, resulting in the subsequent output going HIGH. LEDs are attached to each of these outputs, producing the illusion of LEDs "running" along a line.

Here's the CD4017 IC diagram:

Component List

Part	Value	Note
R1, R2, R3	10 kΩ	Three standard resistors
C1	4.7 μF	Polarized capacitor
L1 to L10	LED	Standard light-emitting diode
U1	NE555	555 Timer IC
U2	CD4017B	4017 Decade Counter

Note: Certain versions of the 555 IC may necessitate a 0.01µF capacitor connecting pin 5 to ground/negative.

The LEDs exhibit a sequential blinking pattern, starting from the first LED and progressing to the last. Then, the cycle reiterates, commencing from the first LED once more. This technique proves useful in creating blinking Christmas lights or similar effects.

Upon reaching Q9, the 4017 counter restarts and commences counting from Q0 again. To limit the number of LEDs lit, simply connect the corresponding subsequent output bit to the MR pin.

For instance, if you only want 5 LEDs in operation, connect Q6 to the MR pin. When the count reaches the 6th bit, it triggers the MR pin, resetting the operation.

You can build the knight rider LED bar by making minor adjustments to the circuit above.  

How To Set the“Running”Speed

The rate at which the output of the 555 Timer goes HIGH per second is known as frequency and is measured in Hertz (Hz). For instance, 10 Hz indicates the LED moves through ten positions in one second.

To determine the frequency, the values of resistors R1 and R2, along with capacitor C1, are used in the following formula:

Frequency: 1.44 / ((R1 + R2 + R2) * C1)

Please be cautious not to use a resistor R1 below 1 kΩ, as connecting Pin 7 (Discharge) to the ground with such low resistance could harm the chip.

If you wish to experiment with different values, a 555 Timer calculator can be helpful in your calculations.

How to Cascade the IC 4017 Counter

You can link two or more 4017 counters to form an extended counter system. Take a look at the schematic; we've employed a pair of 4017 counters for this setup.

Ideally, this setup could be a pre-configured counter where the output pins are connected through diodes to an indicator, like a light or a bell.

We've designed the circuit for a straightforward numerical display, and you can add more chips to extend its counting range.

Next, the carry-over pin 12 is linked to the clock input of the subsequent counter. The reset and clock disable pins should also be grounded (Vss).

Incorporating 100K resistors offers the advantage of using a simple momentary switch in the circuit to reset or pause the counter.

How to Cascade Two 4017 ICs for Getting 17 Sequencing Outputs

The presented diagram illustrates the interconnection of two 4017 ICs to establish a 10-to-17 stage counter/decoder. It demonstrates the cascading of two 4017 ICs to achieve 17 sequencing outputs, surpassing the 10 outputs obtainable from a single IC. The configuration is designed for division by 17.

The clock signal is concurrently supplied to IC1 and IC2. When the count drops below 9, the '9' output of IC1 goes low, causing the clock inhibit pin of IC2 to go high via IC3c. This inhibits IC2 from being influenced by the clock signals.

Upon the arrival of the 9th clock pulse, the '9' output of IC1 goes high, preventing further clocking action for IC1. Simultaneously, it drives the clock inhibit terminal of IC2 low through IC2c, allowing IC2 to respond to subsequent clock signals.

Upon the occurrence of the 17th clock pulse, the '9' output of IC2 briefly goes high, triggering the IC3a-IC3b 15μS monostable. This 15μS pulse resets both counters to the empty or '0' states.

Following this, the counting sequence autonomously recommences. As the '9' output of IC1 and the '0' and '9' outputs of IC2 are disregarded in the counting process, the circuit offers only 17 counter/decoder stages. By linking the "free" input pin of IC2a to the corresponding output pin of IC2, the circuit can be configured to count by any number between 10 and 17.

How to Cascade Three IC 4017 for Getting 25 Sequencing Outputs

The arrangement for establishing an 18 to 25 stage counter/decoder through three 4017s is depicted in the above diagram. IC3 is restrained by IC4b and the low output '9' of IC2, while IC2 is constrained by IC4a and the low output '9' of IC1, until the occurrence of the 9th clock pulse. During the 10th to 17th clock pulses, IC1 is hindered by its high '9' output, while IC3 is restrained by IC4b and the low output '9' of IC2.

Following this, from the 18th to the 25th clock pulses, IC1 is hindered by its high '9' output, and IC2 is impeded through the high '9' outputs of IC1 and IC2 using IC4c. The entire circuit is reset to the '0' state by the IC5a and IC5b monostable.

How to Cascade Four IC 4017 to get 33 Sequencing Outputs

Illustrated above is a configuration employing a divide-by-33 operation, outlining the procedure to create a 26 to 33 stage counter/decoder set. Introducing additional IC2-1C5a-1C5b stages between 1C2 and 1C3 allows for the extension of this design to accommodate any desired number of decoded output stages. With each additional 4017 stage, eight decoded outputs are incrementally integrated into the system.

CD4017 Application Circuit

• Circuits.

The following are some application circuits utilizing the IC 4017 decade counter:

Circling LEDs Effect:

This circuit sequentially lights up eight LEDs to create a captivating circling effect. Beyond being a piece of electronic art, it exemplifies the working principle of IC 4017 and the circuit design using IC 555 in astable mode, along with the 4017 counter. The circuit diagram for the IC 4017 LED application is depicted below.

The 555 IC will be configured in astable mode, generating clock pulses at 14Hz. The 555 IC is a clock pulse generator in this circuit, supplying input clock pulses to the IC 4017 counter. The frequency of the IC 555 in the circuit is 14Hz, implying that approximately 14 clock pulses are produced every second, transmitted to the IC 4017.

Now let's examine the behavior of IC 4017. Functioning as a digital counter and decoder circuit, it receives the clock pulses from the IC 555 timer at its PIN-14.

Upon receiving a clock pulse at its clock input, the IC 4017 counter increments the count and activates the corresponding output PIN. When the count is zero, PIN-3 goes HIGH, causing LED-1 to turn ON while keeping all other LEDs OFF. Following the subsequent clock pulse, PIN-2 of IC 4017 goes HIGH, illuminating LED-2 while turning off the rest. This pattern repeats, causing the LEDs to successively turn ON and OFF with each clock pulse, resulting in the circling effect depicted in the animation above.

Assembling this Circuit:

This circuit can be easily accommodated on a general-purpose PCB or stripboard, with the LEDs arranged in a circular pattern. Ensure a sequential arrangement of the LEDs, beginning with LED-1 and proceeding up to LED-8. Solder these LEDs onto the PCB, forming the circular configuration.

What's more, don't limit yourself to just a circular shape! You can experiment with various shapes and designs, yielding a mesmerizing circling effect for your chosen configuration. Consider creating the first letter of your name using this circling effect, like when I fashioned my circuit in the shape of the letter "D" some time ago. I eventually de-soldered it when I required the LEDs for a different project.

• Utilized as a Binary counter or for Binary decoder.

• Applied for counting divided by a specific number (N).

• Finds use in remote metering, automotive sectors, industrial settings, and medical electronics.

Advanced Circuit Design Projects with CD4017

1. Frequency Divider Circuit using 555 Timer and CD4017

2. Wireless Switch Circuit using LDR and CD4017

3. Wireless DC Motor Speed Control using IR Remote and 555 Timer IC

4. Toggle Switch

5. Digital Dice Circuit

6. Decimal Counter Circuit

7. Dancing LEDs

8. LED Chaser Circuit

9. Clock with LED Pendulum and Tick Tock Sound

10. Heart Shaped Serial LED Flasher

11. Flashing Police Lights Circuit

12. Four Way Traffic Lights Circuit using 555 Timer IC

CD4017 Equivalent IC

You may come across the 4017 IC under various designations such as CD4017, NTE4017, MC14017, HCF4017, TC4017, or HEF4017, often accompanied by additional characters at the end (e.g., CD4017BE).

These differences relate to the chip's manufacturer and the technology employed. Nevertheless, the core functionality and pin configurations remain consistent across these variations.

If you cannot find any of these chips at your local electronics store, refer to my list of online stores to explore alternative purchasing options.

The CD4017 is an extensively used IC readily available in numerous online stores. However, if you need an alternative, consider utilizing a BCD counter like the CD4510 and connecting its output to a CD4028.

Other alternatives for the 4017 include:

• IC 4060 — 14-Stage Ripple-Carry Counters with Built-in Oscillators

• IC 4020 — 14-Stage Binary Ripple Counter and Dividers with Oscillators

• IC 4040 — 12-Stage Ripple-Carry Counter and Dividers

• IC 4022 — Divide-by-8 Counter IC

These are also types of counter integrated circuits. However, they come with minor variations in pin functionality, making them suitable for certain applications.

Other Counter ICs

CD4017BM96, CD4017BPWR, CD4017BNSR, CD4017BE, CD4017BEE4, CD4017BM, CD4017BPW, CD4017BM96G4, CD4017BMG4, CD4017BF, CD4017BF3A

CD4017 Applications

• LED matrix circuits

• LED chaser applications and LED-oriented projects

• Binary counter or Binary decoder

• Divisible counting by N

• Utilized in industrial and medical electronics.

CD4017 Datasheet

Download the IC 4017 PDF datasheet here: CD4017BE (Texas Instruments)

Conclude

The CD4017 IC proves to be a remarkable solution, streamlining circuit design by conserving both board space and time. Especially valuable when combining a counter and decoder IC, the CD4017 simplifies the entire process while enhancing debugging convenience. You can learn more Counter ICs at here.

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