A Comprehensive to 4000 Series ICs

Within the 4000 series of integrated circuits (ICs), there exists a broad array of options. This article, however, offers an overview focusing on the most practical ICs encompassing gates, counters, decoders, and display drivers. Each IC is accompanied by a pin layout diagram, along with concise explanations clarifying the function of the pins when necessary. The explanations also address any notable deviations from the standard characteristics outlined below.

It's important to note that when referencing input pins in other sources, you may encounter variations in terminology. To maintain logical consistency, I've chosen terms that describe the pin's function when it's in a high (true) state. For instance, while the 4026's function "disable clock" might sometimes be labeled as "clock enable" elsewhere, it's crucial to understand that it enables the clock when it's in a low (false) state. If an input is described as "active low," it means it performs its function when in a low state. In cases where an input is active low, you'll notice a line drawn above its label. For instance, "reset-bar" is pronounced as "reset-bar."

Characteristics of 4000 series CMOS ICs

• Supply Voltage: They operate within a range of 3 to 15V, with some tolerance for minor fluctuations.

• High Input Impedance: CMOS IC inputs exhibit very high impedance, which is advantageous because it ensures minimal interference with the connected circuit. However, this also makes unconnected inputs susceptible to electrical noise, causing unpredictable transitions between high and low states. Such behavior can lead to erratic IC performance and increased supply current. To avert these issues, it is imperative to connect all unused inputs to the power supply, whether to +Vs or 0V. This practice should be followed even when a particular part of the IC is not actively used in the circuit.

• Output Characteristics: The IC outputs can sink and source approximately 1mA while maintaining the correct output voltage for driving CMOS inputs. If there's no need to drive any inputs, the maximum current handling capacity increases to around 5mA with a 6V supply or 10mA with a 9V supply (sufficient to power an LED). For handling larger currents, you can employ an external transistor.

• Fan-Out: A single output is capable of driving up to 50 inputs.

• Gate Propagation Time: Typically, it takes about 30ns for a signal to propagate through a gate when powered by a 9V supply. The propagation time increases when operating at lower supply voltages.

• Frequency Handling: These ICs can handle frequencies up to 1MHz. For higher frequencies, the 74 series is a more suitable choice.

• Power Consumption: The ICs have very low power consumption, in the range of a few µW. However, power consumption increases at higher frequencies, reaching a few mW at 1MHz, for instance.

Mixing Logic Families

Ideally, it's recommended to construct a circuit using a single logic family. However, in certain situations, it may be necessary to mix different logic families as long as the power supply accommodates their requirements. For instance, combining 4000 and 74HC logic families necessitates a power supply within the 3 to 6V range. In the case of circuits involving 74LS or 74HCT ICs, a 5V supply is essential.

A 74LS output cannot effectively interface with a 4000 or 74HC input unless a 'pull-up' resistor of 2.2kohm is added between the +5V supply and the input. This correction compensates for the slightly different logic voltage ranges employed.

It's important to note that a single 4000 series output can drive only one 74LS input.

Quad 2-Input Gates 

In the realm of quad 2-input gates, there's a range of options available to suit specific requirements. Here's a list of some notable quad 2-input gates:

4001 - Quad 2-Input NOR Gate

4011 - Quad 2-Input NAND Gate

4030 - Quad 2-Input EX-OR Gate (Note: Now obsolete)

4070 - Quad 2-Input EX-OR Gate

4071 - Quad 2-Input OR Gate

4077 - Quad 2-Input EX-NOR Gate

4081 - Quad 2-Input AND Gate

4093 - Quad 2-Input NAND Gate with Schmitt Trigger Inputs

Notably, the 4093 features Schmitt trigger inputs, which enhance noise immunity and make it particularly well-suited for handling slowly changing or noisy signals. The hysteresis characteristics of the 4093 are approximately 0.5V with a 4.5V supply and nearly 2V with a 9V supply.

Triple 3-Input Gates 

In the category of triple 3-input gates, various options cater to distinct circuit requirements. Here's a list of notable triple 3-input gates:

4023 - Triple 3-Input NAND Gate

4025 - Triple 3-Input NOR Gate

4073 - Triple 3-Input AND Gate

4075 - Triple 3-Input OR Gate

It's worth noting that the configuration of these gates results in an interesting layout, where the first gate spans across both ends of the package.

Dual 4-Input Gates

Within dual 4-input gates, several options are available, each suited for different circuit applications. Here's a concise list of these dual 4-input gates:

4002 - Dual 4-Input NOR Gate

4012 - Dual 4-Input NAND Gate

4072 - Dual 4-Input OR Gate

4082 - Dual 4-Input AND Gate

In addition, you may come across the abbreviation "NC," which stands for "No Connection" and denotes an unused pin on these components.

4068 8-Input NAND/AND* Gate

The 4068 8-input NAND/AND* gate is a specialized electronic component with unique characteristics worth noting:

It features 8 input ports, distinguishing it from standard gates.

The propagation time of this gate is significantly longer, approximately 10 times that of regular gates. Consequently, it's not recommended for high-speed circuit applications.

"NC" indicates a pin that serves no purpose and remains unconnected in the circuit.

Note: Some versions of the 4068 do not offer the AND output (pin 1).

4069 hex NOT (inverting buffer)

4049 Hex NOT and 4050 Hex Buffer ICs

The 4049 Hex NOT (inverting buffer) and 4050 Hex non-inverting buffer ICs exhibit some distinctive features:

• Inputs: These ICs set themselves apart by withstanding up to +15V on their gate inputs, even when the power supply voltage is lower.

• Outputs: These ICs are remarkable in their ability to drive 74LS gate inputs directly. To achieve this, they require a +5V supply, matching the 74LS supply voltage. The gate output can effectively handle up to four 74LS inputs.

NC signifies a pin that remains unconnected and serves no purpose in the circuit layout.

Please take note of the unique configuration of the power supply pins in these ICs.

4000 Dual 3-Input NOR Gate and NOT Gate IC

In this integrated circuit (IC), you will find a combination of two 3-input NOR gates and a solitary NOT gate, all neatly packed within a single package.

NC signifies a pin that remains unconnected and serves no purpose in the circuit layout.

4017 Decade Counter (1-of-10)

The 4017 decade counter advances the count when the clock input goes high, specifically on the rising edge. With each count progression, the outputs Q0 to Q9 sequentially go high. In specific applications, like flash sequences, outputs can be combined using diodes.

To maintain normal counting (0-9), the reset input should be kept low (at 0V). When set high, it resets the count to zero (Q0 goes high). Manual reset can be achieved by incorporating a switch between reset and +Vs, along with a 10k resistor between reset and 0V. To count to a value less than 9, connect the respective output (Q0-Q9) to reset. For example, to count 0, 1, 2, or 3, connect Q4 to reset.

For regular operation, ensure the disable input is low (0V). Setting it high disables counting, causing the IC to ignore clock pulses and keep the count constant.

The ÷10 output is high during counts 0-4 and low during counts 5-9. This output provides a signal at 1/10 of the clock frequency, making it helpful in driving the clock input of another 4017 to count in tens.

4026 Decade Counter and 7-Segment Display Driver

The 4026 decade counter advances the count when the clock input goes high, specifically on the rising edge. As the count progresses, the outputs a-g go high to illuminate the corresponding segments of a common-cathode 7-segment display. The maximum output current is approximately 1mA with a 4.5V supply and 4mA with a 9V supply, which is ample for directly driving many 7-segment LED displays. The detailed segment sequence is provided in the table below.

To maintain normal counting (0-9), ensure the reset input is held low at 0V. Setting it high resets the count to zero.

For regular operation, keep the disabled clock input low at 0V. Setting it high disables counting, causing the IC to disregard clock pulses and maintain a constant count.

To have a functional display, the enable display input should be high at +Vs. Lowering it makes outputs a-g go low, resulting in a blank display. The enable out mimics this input but with a slight delay.

The ÷10 output (notated as 'h' in the table) is high during counts 0-4 and low during counts 5-9, making it output at 1/10 of the clock frequency. This output can drive the clock input of another 4026 for multi-digit counting.

The not 2 output remains high except when the count is 2, at which point it goes low.

4029 Up/Down Synchronous Counter with Preset

The 4029 is a synchronous counter, ensuring its outputs change simultaneously with each clock pulse. This synchronicity proves advantageous when connecting the outputs to logic gates, as it helps prevent the glitches commonly associated with ripple counters.

Counting occurs as the clock input rises to a high level (on the rising edge). The up/down input dictates the counting direction: set it high for up-counting and low for down-counting. The state of up/down should only be changed when the clock is high.

For standard counting operations, the preset and carry-in inputs should be maintained at a low state.

The binary/decade input serves as the selector for the counter type: set it high for 4-bit binary counting (0-15) and low for decade counting (0-9).

To preset the counter, input the desired binary number on pins A-D and briefly set the preset input to a high state. While there is no dedicated reset input, the preset function can be utilized to reset the count to zero, provided that inputs A-D are all low.

4510 Up/Down Decade (0-9) Counter with Preset
4516 Up/Down 4-Bit (0-15) Counter with Preset

The 4510 and 4516 counters are synchronous in operation, ensuring that their outputs change in precise unison with each clock pulse. This synchronous behavior is especially advantageous when connecting their outputs to logic gates, as it eliminates the glitches that can arise with ripple counters.

Counting occurs as the clock input rises to a high level (on the rising edge). The up/down input dictates the counting direction: set it high for up-counting and low for down-counting. It's essential to change the state of up/down when the clock is high.

For regular counting operations, the preset, reset, and carry-in inputs should all be kept at a low state. When the reset input goes high, it effectively resets the count to zero (0000, with QA-QD at a low state). It's essential to ensure that the clock input is low during the reset process.

To preset the counter to a specific value, input the desired binary number on pins A-D and briefly set the preset input to a high state. Ensure that the clock input is low at the time of presetting.

Connecting Synchronous Counters in a Chain

The diagram presented below illustrates the process of interconnecting synchronous counters. It's essential to observe that all clock (CK) inputs are interconnected. The carry out (CO) of one counter is directed to the carry in (CI) of the subsequent counter. However, for 4029, 4510, and 4516 counters, it's crucial to ensure that the carry in (CI) of the initial counter is set to a low state.

4518 Dual Decade (0-9) Counter
4520 Dual 4-bit (0-15) Counter

These ICs feature two distinct synchronous counters, one on each side of the IC.

Typically, a clock signal is connected to the clock input, while the enable input is maintained high. The counting process advances as the clock signal rises from low to high.

For standard operation, it's essential to keep the reset input low. Setting it high will reset the counter to zero (0000, with QA-QD at a low state).

To achieve counting ranges less than the maximum (9 or 15), you can connect the appropriate output(s) to the reset input. If necessary, you can utilize an AND gate for this purpose. For instance, to count from 0 to 8, connect QA (1) and QD (8) to the reset input using an AND gate.

Connecting 4518 and 4520 Counters in Series

In the diagram below, you can observe the process of linking 4518 and 4520 counters. It's important to note that the standard clock inputs are maintained at a low level, while the enable inputs are employed instead. This configuration allows counting to progress as the enabled input transitions from high to low (on the falling edge). Output QD serves as a clock signal to the subsequent counter. It's worth mentioning that although each individual counter is synchronous, when interconnected in this manner, the complete chain functions as a ripple counter. If the requirement is for truly synchronous counting, a system of logic gates is necessary. For further insights, please refer to a 4518/20 datasheet.

4020 14-Bit (÷16,384) Ripple Counter

The 4020 operates as a ripple counter, and it's essential to be aware that when connected to logic gate systems, glitches may occur due to the slight delay before the subsequent counter outputs respond to a clock pulse.

Counting progresses as the clock input transitions from high to low (on the falling edge), as indicated by the bar over the clock label. This behavior aligns with the typical clock operation of ripple counters, allowing a counter output to directly drive the clock input of the next counter in a chain.

Each output, denoted as Qn corresponds to the nth stage of the counter, representing 2^n. For example, Q4 signifies 2^4, equal to 16 (1/16 of the clock frequency), and Q14 represents 2^14, which is 16,384 (1/16,384 of the clock frequency). It's worth noting that Q2 and Q3 are not accessible.

For regular counting operations, the reset input should be kept low. When set high, it resets the count to zero, causing all outputs to go low.

4024 7-Bit (÷128) Ripple Counter

The 4024 functions as a ripple counter, and it's important to note that when its outputs are connected to logic gate systems, glitches may occur due to the slight delay before the subsequent counter outputs respond to a clock pulse.

Counting progresses as the clock input transitions from high to low (on the falling edge), as indicated by the bar over the clock label. This aligns with the typical clock operation of ripple counters, allowing a counter output to directly drive the clock input of the next counter in a chain.

Each output, designated as Qn, corresponds to the nth stage of the counter, representing 2^n. For instance, Q4 signifies 2^4, which equals 16 (1/16 of the clock frequency), and Q7 represents 2^7, amounting to 128 (1/128 of the clock frequency).

For regular counting operations, the reset input should be maintained low. When set high, it resets the count to zero, causing all outputs to go low.

4040 12-Bit (÷4096) Ripple Counter

The 4040 operates as a ripple counter, and it's essential to be aware that when its outputs are linked to logic gate systems, glitches may occur due to the slight delay before the subsequent counter outputs respond to a clock pulse.

Counting progresses as the clock input transitions from high to low (on the falling edge), indicated by the bar over the clock label. This aligns with the typical clock operation of ripple counters, enabling a counter output to directly drive the clock input of the next counter in a chain.

Each output denoted as Qn, corresponds to the nth stage of the counter, symbolizing 2^n. For instance, Q4 signifies 2^4, equivalent to 16 (1/16 of the clock frequency), and Q12 represents 2^12, amounting to 4096 (1/4096 of the clock frequency).

For regular counting operations, the reset input should be kept low. When set high, it resets the count to zero, causing all outputs to go low.

4060 14-Bit (÷16,384) Ripple Counter with Internal Oscillator

The 4060 functions as a ripple counter, and it's important to note that when its outputs are connected to logic gate systems, glitches may occur due to the slight delay before the subsequent counter outputs respond to a clock pulse.

Counting progresses as the clock input transitions from high to low (on the falling edge), as indicated by the bar over the clock label. This aligns with the typical clock operation of ripple counters, allowing a counter output to directly drive the clock input of the next counter in a chain. The clock can be driven directly or connected to the internal oscillator (details below).

Each output, represented by Qn, corresponds to the nth stage of the counter, symbolizing 2^n. For example, Q4 signifies 2^4, equivalent to 16 (1/16 of the clock frequency), and Q14 represents 2^14, amounting to 16,384 (1/16,384 of the clock frequency). Notably, Q1-3 and Q11 are unavailable.

For regular counting operations, the reset input should be maintained at a low level. Setting it high resets the count to zero, causing all outputs to go low.

The 4060 boasts an internal oscillator and offers three clock signal supply options:

• From an external source to the clock input, akin to a standard counter. In this case, no connections should be made to external C and external R (pins 9 and 10).

• Via an RC oscillator, as illustrated in the diagram. The oscillator drives the clock input with an approximate frequency f = 1/(2×R1×C) (though it partly depends on the supply voltage). If the supply voltage is less than 7V, R1 should be at least 50kohm. R2 should be set between 2 and 10 times R1.

• Through a crystal oscillator, as depicted in the diagram. It's important to note that there is no connection to pin 9. When a 32,768 Hz crystal is employed, it yields a 2 Hz signal at the last output, Q14.

4028 BCD to Decimal (1 of 10) Decoder

The 4028 functions as a Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) decoder and activates the corresponding output, Q0-9, in response to the BCD input. For example, if the input is binary 0101 (equivalent to 5 in decimal), it will set output Q5 to a high state while keeping all other outputs low.

The 4028 is designed specifically as a BCD decoder, catering to input values ranging from 0 to 9 (represented as 0000 to 1001 in binary). When inputs fall within the range of 10 to 15 (corresponding to 1010 to 1111 in binary), all outputs are held at a low state.

It's important to note that the 4028 can also serve as a 1-of-8 decoder by keeping input D at a low state.

4511 BCD to 7-Segment Display Driver

The 4511 serves as a Binary Coded Decimal (BCD) to 7-segment display driver, allowing the appropriate segments, labeled a-g, to illuminate based on the BCD input provided through pins A to D. The a-g outputs can source a maximum of 25mA. To connect a 7-segment display, the segments should be linked between these outputs and the ground (0V) using a series resistor, typically 330 ohms with a 5V power supply. It's important to note that a common cathode display is required for compatibility.

The display test and blank input are both active-low, meaning they should be at a high state for normal operation. When the display test input is low, all display segments should light up, displaying the number 8. Conversely, if the blank input is set to low, the display will go blank, turning off all segments.

For typical operation, the store input should be low. However, setting the store input to a high state will internally store the displayed number. This results in a constant display, unaffected by any changes to the A-D inputs.

The 4511 is primarily designed for BCD inputs. When the input values range from 10 to 15 (represented as 1010 to 1111 in binary), the display will be blank, with all segments turned off.

Read More

• A Comprehensive Guide to Counter IC

• 4-Bit Binary Counter: Working, Circuit Diagram & Applications

• The Ultimate Guide to Ring Counter: Working, Types & Applications

• Johnson Counter: Circuit Diagram, Truth Table, Pros & Cons

• The Ultimate Guide to 74ls vs. 74hc series ICs

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