CD4040 12-Stage Ripple Carry Binary Counter IC DIP-16 Package

Specifications

• Architecture: 12-Stage Binary Ripple Counter
• Clock Triggering: Negative-edge triggered (advances on HIGH-to-LOW transition)
• Voltage Compatibility: 3V to 15V (Parametric ratings at 5V, 10V, and 15V)
• Maximum Clock Frequency: 8 MHz (typ) @ 10V; ~3.5 MHz @ 5V
• Quiescent Current (Icc): Extremely low, 0.03 mA (max) @ 10V
• Reset Function: Asynchronous Master Reset (Active HIGH)
• Output Current (IOL/IOH): ±1.5 mA @ 5V
• Propagation Delay (tpd): 160 ns (typ) @ 10V
• Input Protection: Fully buffered inputs/outputs with static protection
• Standard Compliance: Meets JEDEC Tentative Standard No. 13B
• Package: DIP-16 (Breadboard and Socket friendly)

Applications

• Frequency Division: Effortlessly divide a 32.768kHz crystal clock down to 8Hz or lower for digital timekeeping.
• Long-Delay Timers: Create delays spanning minutes or hours by utilizing the higher-order outputs (Q10–Q12).
• Binary Counting Displays: Perfect for educational "Binary to Decimal" visualizers using 12 LEDs.
• Clock Generators: Use in conjunction with an NE555 timer to create complex multi-phase clocking systems for legacy hardware.

Package Includes:

• 1 x CD4040 12-Stage Ripple Carry Binary Counter IC DIP-16 Package

Frequently Asked Questions (Technical FAQ)

• Does the CD4040 count on the rising or falling edge?
  It counts on the falling edge (Negative transition).
• Can I use this as a frequency divider?
  Yes, each output Q(n) provides a frequency of Clock / 2n.
• Is the Reset pin active high or low?
  It is Asynchronous Master Reset, Active HIGH.
• Can I use this with 3.3V logic (like ESP32)?
  Yes, it operates perfectly at 3V.
• How much current can the outputs drive?
  Approximately 1.5mA at 5V; use a transistor or buffer for high-current loads like motors.
• Is it fully static?
  Yes, it maintains its state even if the clock stops.
• What is "Ripple Carry"?
  It means the clock signal ripples through each stage sequentially; there is a small delay between each bit flipping.
• Can I chain two CD4040s?
  Yes, connect the Q12 of the first to the clock of the second for a 24-bit counter.
• Does it require an external oscillator?
  No, it just needs an external pulse (clock) to count.
• Why is it called "B" Series?
  "B" stands for Buffered, complying with the JEDEC 13B standard for higher reliability.
• Can it count down?
  No, the CD4040 is an up-counter only.
• What happens if I leave the Reset pin floating?
  Floating pins cause unpredictable behavior. Always tie it LOW if not in use.