CD4060 IC: A Ultimate Guide to datasheet, circuit & application

The CD4060 emerges as an IC within the CD4000 family of integrated circuits. It's packed with a built-in oscillator that can be easily fine-tuned using just a few external components.

Whenever using a microchip seems risky, turn to the trusty components of the CD4000 IC series.

In this new technologies article, we'll take a deep dive into the world of the CD4060 integrated circuit. Let's get started!

What is CD4060 IC?

The CD4060 is a CMOS chip, 14-bit binary counter IC with a built-in oscillator. This oscillator operates within a binary ripple counter carry setup. The CD4060 IC, hailing from the CD4000 family, is a friendly complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) integrated circuit.

The primary role of this IC is to serve up customizable time delays, but it doesn't stop there. You can also tap into its prowess to generate a medley of frequencies. This versatile function is possible because the CD4060 houses an internal oscillator that synergizes beautifully with just a handful of passive electronic companions.

But there's more! If the art of crafting audio or synthesizers piques your curiosity, the CD4060 is your trusty ally. Imagine this: a single capacitor and a pair of resistors are all it takes for this chip to orchestrate a symphony of ten distinctive frequencies. Let the creative journey unfold!

 

CD4060 Pinout

The CD4060 presents itself as a 16-pin integrated circuit featuring a binary counter. Among these pins, Q4 – Q14 serve as output pins. These output pins generate a binary counter output with each positive edge of a clock pulse. Alternatively, we establish connections through pins nine and ten for oscillator circuits.

CD4060 Pin diagram

Displayed below is an illustration portraying the pin configuration of a CD4060.

Pin Overview for the CD4060

Pin Name	Pin #	Type	Description
VDD	16	Power	Supply Voltage (+3 to +15V)
GND	8	Power	Ground (0V)
Q3-Q9	1-7	Output	Counter outputs
Q11-Q13	13-15	Output	Counter outputs
CEXT	9	Input	Connection for external capacitor
REXT	10	Input	Connection for external capacitor
CLK11	11	Input	Clock input/Oscillator pin
RST12	12	Input	Resets the counter

CD4060 Circuit– Adjustable Timer

Here's a hands-on example you can construct using the CD4060 chip:

To set up this circuit, gather the following components:

• A CD4060 chip, such as the CD4060BE model

• A rotary switch with the desired number of positions for timer choices

• A 100 kΩ resistor (R1)

• A 0.22 µF capacitor (C1)

• A 1 MΩ resistor (R2)

• An NPN transistor (Q1)

• A 1kΩ resistor (R3) regulates current through the transistor

• A relay

With the chosen values for C1 and R1, you achieve a frequency of:

Frequency f (Hz) = 1 / (2.3 * 0.0000022 F * 100000 Ω) = 1.98 Hz

This equates to around 2 clock pulses per second. Consequently, we can determine the time delay before each output goes high:

• Q3 becomes HIGH after 23 = 8 clock pulses = 4 seconds

• Q4 becomes HIGH after 24 = 16 clock pulses = 8 seconds

• Q5 becomes HIGH after 25 = 32 clock pulses = 16 seconds

• Q6 becomes HIGH after 26 = 64 clock pulses = 32 seconds

• Q7 becomes HIGH after 27 = 128 clock pulses = 1 minute and 4 seconds

• Q8 becomes HIGH after 28 = 256 clock pulses = 2 minutes and 8 seconds

• Q9 becomes HIGH after 29 = 512 clock pulses = 4 minutes and 16 seconds

• Q11 becomes HIGH after 211 = 2048 clock pulses = 17 minutes and 4 seconds

• Q12 becomes HIGH after 212 = 4096 clock pulses = 34 minutes and 8 seconds

• Q13 becomes HIGH after 213 = 8192 clock pulses = 1 hour, 8 minutes and 16 seconds

 

CD4060 Binary Counter with Oscillator

A binary ripple counter is an assembly of successive D flip-flops, with the output of each connected to the CLK input of the next. The flip-flop on the far left serves as the counter input.

4-stage binary ripple counter

In contrast to the modest four flip-flops found in the example earlier, the CD4060 embraces a sequence of 14 flip-flops. This expansive arrangement empowers it to achieve a count of up to 16383, the maximum value within 14 bits.

Enhancing its capabilities, the CD4060 houses an intrinsic oscillator that grants the ability to fabricate clock pulses, thereby autonomously advancing the counter. This unique attribute transforms the CD4060 into a timer circuit, allowing the selection of diverse time intervals (or frequencies) based on the chosen Q-output.

For instance, should you configure the resistor and capacitor values to orchestrate a 1 Hz clock pulse, it signifies an increment in the counter every second. Consequently, by opting for output Q3, an 8-second delay materializes. Similarly, selecting output Q13 translates to a delay of 2 hours and 16 minutes (8192 seconds).

Conclude the CD4060 Binary Counter features as follows:

• This 14-stage integrated circuit comes in 16-pin packages, including PDIP, CDIP, SOIC, and TSSOP variations.

• Secondly, it boasts a reset propagation delay of 25ns at 5v, ensuring efficient performance.

• Moving forward, the IC supports nominal voltages of 5v, 10v, and 15v, enhancing versatility.

• The CD4060 seamlessly covers a counting range of 0 to 16383 in decimal.

• Moreover, the integrated circuit operates within a voltage range of 3v to 18v, accommodating various power needs.

• Furthermore, its binary counter functionality, coupled with an oscillator, attains a maximum clock frequency of 30MHz at 15v.

• In addition, the 14-bit binary counter IC features pins with functions that align compatibly with the TTL series.

• Operating at a medium speed of 8MHz under a VDD of 10v, the CD4060 IC delivers consistent performance.

• Also, it supports fully static operations with buffered inputs and outputs, contributing to reliable functionality.

• Lastly, the 16-pin PDIP version boasts Schmitt-triggered inputs, facilitating unlimited rise and fall times for enhanced performance.

The Missing Outputs Q0, Q1, Q2, Q10

Curiously, the CD4060 does not feature outputs Q0 to Q2 and Q10.

While no official explanation has come to light regarding this omission, a plausible theory suggests that the CD4060 might be an advanced iteration of the CD4040. The CD4040, with its 16 pins, may have prompted the removal of certain bits to accommodate the integration of an oscillator and a higher bit count within the confines of the same pin count.

How Does the CD4060 IC Work?

Given that the CD4060 Integrated Circuit encompasses a binary counter and an internal oscillator, it seamlessly transitions with each clock pulse. To illustrate, whenever there's a negative shift in the clock pulse, the counter value experiences an increment of 1. It's worth noting that this increment is based on binary numbers. It's crucial to consistently establish a connection between the reset pin and the ground or the negative supply voltage – a vital aspect to bear.

Moreover, the positive signal can be conveniently referred to as "1," or it can also be termed as "HIGH." For example, if you feed a high signal into the reset input, the reset pin promptly restores oscillations to zero.

Below is a Boolean logic table that elaborates on the impact of the RESET value and the clock pulse.

 

Where to Use the CD4060?

The CD4060 is an oscillator and a counter chip featuring 10 outputs, making it suitable for tasks requiring precise and adjustable time delays. Additionally, it excels in generating highly accurate frequency oscillations. It's especially well-suited for timing-related applications. This integrated circuit is a good choice if you want to create a dependable time-delay circuit with minimal components. The functionality of this IC can also be employed to construct dividers. Classified as a 14-bit binary counter, the CD4060 comes with 12 output pins, labeled from Q1 to Q14, omitting Q2 and Q3. When these pins are subjected to an incoming clock pulse, the binary count progresses from 00 0000 0000 0000 to 11 1111 1111 1111, translating to a decimal range of 0 to 16383. If you're in the market for a 14-bit binary counter that a clock pulse can advance, this IC might pique your interest.

CD4060 Working Principle

The CD4060 integrated circuit comes with an embedded oscillator unit. Being a binary counter, it increases its count by one in binary form with each falling edge of the clock pulse. The reset pin should consistently be linked to the ground or the negative power source. When a positive signal (1 or HIGH) is fed into this input, it resets the counter or oscillator cycles, restarting them from the initial point. The table below illustrates the impact of the reset value and clock pulse, where 'X' represents a condition that is irrelevant.

Truth table	RESET	Counter Value
X	1	Reset Counter to 0 value
Negative Transition	0	Value in counter is advanced by 1 step
Positive Transition	0	No change

How to Configure Oscillator Frequency?

The CD4060 boasts an integrated oscillator with its frequency determined by external components. Specifically, the oscillator's frequency hinges on the capacitance of an external capacitor connected to pin 11, and the resistance values tied to pins 9 and 10. Modifying the time delay is achievable by altering the values of these external components. It's important to note that the resistance value at pin 11 should be approximately ten times that of the resistor at pin 10. The unconnected terminals of these components are interconnected, as illustrated in the Proteus circuit.

To calculate the oscillation frequency, you can employ the following formula:

f = 1 / (2.5 x R1 x C1)

You also possess the ability to set your desired frequency by manipulating the values of R1 and C1 within this equation. For instance, in this instance, we will use R1 = 1M ohm and C1 = 0.22uF. Plugging these values into the frequency formula yields:

f = 1 / (2.5 * 1000000 * 0.00000022)

f = 1.8 Hertz

Consequently, with these specific resistor and capacitor values, the clock frequency stands at 1.8Hz. Similarly, the clock period can be determined as 1/f, resulting in 1/1.8 = 0.56 seconds. However, it's worth noting that the output pins won't switch states precisely within this time period. Their state changes occur in multiples of the oscillator time period, a concept elaborated in the subsequent section.

To commence the oscillator's operation, simply power up the circuit. The IC's oscillator will initiate oscillation. To cease or reset the oscillations, introduce a logic 1 or a positive supply to the RESET pin.

How to Calculate the Timing of Output Pin?

The CD4060's output pins exhibit a specific frequency relationship; each pin's frequency is twice that of the previous pin. If, for instance, the frequency at pin 3 measures 4Hz, then at pin 2, it will be 8Hz, and so forth. Furthermore, we can compute the time period of each pin using the following formula:

T = 2^n / fosc

In this equation, fosc represents the oscillator's frequency, while n denotes the output pin number. For example, when determining the transition time of pin Q6, n equals 6. Plugging these values into the formula yields:

T = 2^6 / 1.8 = 64 / 1.8 = 35.5 seconds

Hence, we can expect a logic high output at pin Q6 after approximately 35.5 seconds.

How to Use the CD4060?

First and foremost, ensure the VDD pin links to your positive supply terminal while the GND pin securely attaches to your negative supply terminal. Your power supply voltage can span from 3V to 15V, and do refer to your datasheet for precise figures; some CD4060 versions even support up to 20V.

To set the oscillator into motion, establish connections: tether a resistor from the REXT pin, couple a capacitor from the CEXT pin, and link another resistor from the CLK pin. Ensure all three converge at the opposing end:

CD4060 Oscillator Configuration

The frequency takes shape through this formula:

Frequency f (Hz) = 1 / (2.3 * Ct * Rt)

Remember that Rt should be substantially lower than R2 to maintain formula precision.

When resetting to zero is your goal, elevate the RST (Reset) pin. Ordinarily, you ought to pull this LOW to initiate chip functionality.

Employ any Q pins as your output for overseeing your desired control. The HIGH state ensues as follows:

• Q3 reaches HIGH after 23 pulses, equivalent to 8 clock cycles.

• Q4 achieves HIGH after 24 pulses, corresponding to 16 clock cycles.

• Q5 hits HIGH after 25 pulses, encompassing 32 clock cycles.

• Q6 attains HIGH after 26 pulses, spanning 64 clock cycles.

• Q7 ascends to HIGH after 27 pulses, encompassing 128 clock cycles.

• Q8 elevates to HIGH after 28 pulses, covering 256 clock cycles.

• Q9 rises to HIGH after 29 pulses, spanning 512 clock cycles.

• Q11 attains HIGH after 211 pulses, encompassing 2048 clock cycles.

• Q12 hits HIGH after 212 pulses, spanning 4096 clock cycles.

• Q13 ascends to HIGH after 213 pulses, covering 8192 clock cycles.

Using a Crystal with the CD4060

Looking to enhance precision using a crystal? That's indeed an option. This variety of oscillators is dubbed a Pierce Oscillator.

While the CD4060 datasheet doesn't delve much into value selection for this purpose, I came across a similar chip, the 74AHC1G4210. This chip functions akin to the 4060, albeit with just one output.

The 74AHC1G4210 datasheet provides a tad more insight:

A typical crystal oscillator schematic, depicted in Figure 8, reveals R1 as the power-regulating resistor. Its value hinges on the desired frequency and the requisite stability against fluctuations in VCC or average ICC. A certain level of transconductance is mandatory to ensure initiation and sustained oscillation, implying that R1 shouldn't be excessively high. A practical R1 value to consider is around 2.2 kΩ.

What Crystal To Choose?

Imagine you're eyeing the 4060 IC to perform as a frequency divider, generating a steady 500 Hz output. Curious about the required crystal?

Picture this: Q3 takes a sequence of 8 clock pulses to ascend from low to high, then another 8 to revert from high back to low. Hence, a complete cycle (frequency period) demands 16 pulses.

This elegant pattern extends across every output. By leveraging this consistency, you can deduce the theoretical crystal frequency essential for achieving 500 Hz from each output:

• Q3 calls for a crystal of 500 * 16 = 8 kHz

• Q4 necessitates a crystal of 500 * 32 = 16 kHz

• Q5 mandates a crystal of 500 * 64 = 32 kHz

• Q6 requires a crystal of 500 * 128 = 64 kHz

• Q7 demands a crystal of 500 * 256 = 128 kHz

• Q8 seeks a crystal of 500 * 512 = 256 kHz

• Q9 yearns for a crystal of 500 * 1024 = 512 kHz

• Q11 beckons a crystal of 500 * 4096 = 2.048 MHz

• Q12 beckons a crystal of 500 * 8192 = 4.096 MHz

• Q13 beckons a crystal of 500 * 16384 = 8.192 MHz

Not all of these crystal values may be available; this setup showcases how you can pinpoint suitable crystal frequencies for your chosen output. However, 2.048 MHz and 4.096 MHz are commonplace and will yield your desired 500 Hz output seamlessly.

CD4060 Example Circuits

Here is an illustration of an LED blinking circuit implemented with a binary counter. As depicted in the image, this circuit causes the LED to flash at one-second intervals.

CD4060 Example Controlling Street Light

In this CD4060 example circuit, we implement a street light control system with a 6-hour delay. A Light-dependent resistor (LDR) is integrated with a reset pin to facilitate this function. The LDR detects changes in light levels and triggers a reset signal for the timer when light drops below a specific threshold. However, upon detecting reduced light, the CD4060 timer activates, and the LED lights illuminate after a 6-hour delay. This delay is achieved by configuring the crystal oscillator frequency accordingly.

Alternatives and Equivalents for CD4060

You may encounter the 4060 IC under designations such as CD4060, NTE4060, MC14060, HCF4060, TC4060, or HEF4060, often accompanied by extra characters at the end (CD4060BE).

This variation owes itself to the chip's manufacturer and the technology employed, yet the core functionality and pin layout remains unchanged.

Should you encounter difficulty sourcing these chips locally, I've compiled a list of online stores brimming with diverse purchasing options.

Should the 4060 prove elusive, consider exploring alternative IC options equipped with a binary ripple counter. Keep in mind, however, that creating the oscillator becomes your responsibility in this scenario:

• 4020: Presents a 14-stage binary ripple counter (Lacks an oscillator)

• 4024: Features a 7-stage binary ripple counter (Lacks an oscillator)

• 4040: Embodies a 12-stage binary ripple counter (Lacks an oscillator)

The CD4024B in 7-bit and 12-bit configurations can be viable alternatives to the CD4060. Yet, given the CD4060's association with the CD4000 series, you can also explore certain ICs within this family as comparable substitutes at here.

Application of CD4060

CD4060 is best to use in time-related applications. This integrated circuit can be used to create long periods in electronic systems. Also, we use this IC in projects where the presence of a microchip is dangerous.  The CD4060 is a multi-purpose IC embraced across a wide spectrum of applications. Here is a summary of its key applications:

• Timing Devices: This IC is your best bet for constructing systems that need accurate time tracking. It has gained the trust of experts in both the industrial and consumer electronics fields.

• Delay-Inducing Circuits: If your project requires substantial time gaps, the CD4060 delivers. It excels in crafting circuits that can induce extended periods of delay, useful in everything from home security systems to industrial automation.

• Frequency Divider: When the task is to subdivide high-frequency signals into more digestible parts, the CD4060 is your go-to. It has proven capabilities in breaking down frequencies to more manageable levels.

• Event Counters: Counting instances or operations is yet another forte of this IC. It can do everything from straightforward counting tasks to intricate industrial monitors.

CD4060 Manufacture

As a worldwide semiconductor company with operations in 35 countries, Texas Instruments (TI) primarily represents the ingenuity of its personnel. From the TI employee who introduced the first operational integrated circuit back in 1958 to the over 30,000 TI professionals across the globe today, dedicated to the design, production, and sale of analog and embedded processing chips, we are a collective of issue solvers collaborating to drive technological advancements that can reshape the world.

CD4060 Datasheet

• CD4060B (Texas Instruments)

• HEF4060B (Nexperia)

Conclusion

The CD4060 serves as a circuit employed for obtaining refined and accurate frequency oscillations. Its utility becomes evident when constructing time delay circuits with a minimal assortment of electronic components.

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