CD4060 14 stage Ripple Carry Binary Counter IC DIP-16 Package

Specifications

• Part Number: CD4060 (4000 Series CMOS Logic)
• Function: 14-Stage Ripple Carry Binary Counter / Divider and Oscillator
• Package Type: DIP-16 (Dual In-line Package, 16 pins)
• Operating Voltage Range (VCC): 3V to 18V (Nominal 5V, 10V, 15V parametric ratings)
• Maximum Clock Frequency: 12 MHz (at 15V VCC)
• RC Oscillator Frequency: 690 kHz minimum (at 15V VCC)
• Maximum Propagation Delay (tpd): 300 ns (at nominal voltage)
• Quiescent Current (ICC): 0.03 mA (Max at nominal voltage)
• Operating Temperature Range: -55°C to 125°C
• Key Features: Fully static operation, buffered inputs and outputs, Schmitt trigger input-pulse line, common reset.

Applications

• Long-Duration Timers: Build countdown circuits or interval timers that run from seconds to hours.
• Frequency Dividers: Step down high-frequency oscillator signals to usable, low-frequency clock pulses.
• Custom Oscillators: Utilize the built-in active components to create RC or crystal oscillator configurations.
• Control Counters: Manage event sequencing in automated hardware setups.
• Time-Delay Circuits: Trigger relays or alarms after a specific, hardware-defined delay.

Unlock New Capabilities

• Past Projects: If you've mastered the basic 555 Timer for simple blinking LEDs or short delays...
• The Upgrade: This CD4060 unlocks the ability to create incredibly long time delays and precise frequency divisions without cascading multiple chips. Because it has an onboard oscillator and 14 stages of division, you can achieve timing intervals that a standard 555 timer cannot reliably maintain.
• Effort Level: Intermediate. You will need a basic understanding of binary counting, RC time constants (Resistor-Capacitor networks) to set the oscillator frequency, and breadboarding skills.

Package Includes:

• 1 x  CD4060 14 stage Ripple Carry Binary Counter IC DIP-16 Package

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• What is the main function of the CD4060 IC?
  It is a 14-stage binary counter and divider that includes a built-in oscillator section, primarily used for generating accurate time delays and dividing frequencies.
• Can I use a crystal oscillator with the CD4060?
  Yes, the internal active components support both RC (Resistor-Capacitor) and standard crystal oscillator configurations.
• What is the maximum operating voltage for this IC?
  The CD4060 can operate on a supply voltage (VDD) ranging from 3V up to a maximum of 18V.
• Why are some output pins missing on the CD4060?
  To fit inside a standard 16-pin package while accommodating the oscillator and reset pins, the first three stages (Q1, Q2, Q3) and the 11th stage (Q11) are internal and not accessible via external pins.
• How do I reset the counter?
  Apply a HIGH signal to Pin 12 (RESET). For normal counting operation, Pin 12 must be tied to Ground (LOW).
• Is the CD4060 compatible with Arduino or ESP32?
  Yes, but you must ensure the logic levels match. Power the CD4060 with 5V for Arduino, or 3.3V for ESP32 to ensure safe logic level communication.
• How do I calculate the frequency of the RC oscillator?
  The frequency is determined by the external resistor and capacitor values connected to pins 9, 10, and 11. Refer to the manufacturer datasheet for the specific formula (typically f = 1 / (2.2 * R * C)).
• What is the maximum clock frequency the CD4060 can handle?
  It can handle up to 12 MHz when powered at 15V. At lower voltages, the maximum frequency will decrease.
• Does the CD4060 need an external clock signal?
  No, it has a built-in oscillator. You only need to add external passive components (resistors/capacitors or a crystal) to generate the clock, or you can feed an external clock into Pin 11 if preferred.
• What does "Ripple Carry" mean in this IC?
  It means the clock signal cascades (ripples) through each flip-flop stage sequentially. Each stage divides the frequency of the previous stage by two.
• Is a DIP socket necessary for this IC?
  While not strictly required, using a 16-pin DIP socket is highly recommended to protect the IC from heat damage during soldering and to allow for easy replacement.
• Can I use the CD4060 to drive an LED directly?
  The output current is relatively low (max 1.5mA). It is best to use a transistor or a dedicated driver IC if you need to drive LEDs or relays from the outputs.
• What happens if I leave the RESET pin floating?
  Leaving logic input pins floating can cause erratic behavior. Always tie the RESET pin to Ground (through a pull-down resistor if you intend to trigger it later) for stable operation.