onsemi MC74HC4040ADR2G 12-Stage Binary Ripple Counter: Datasheet, Pinout, and Application Circuits
The onsemi MC74HC4040ADR2G is a high-speed silicon-gate CMOS integrated circuit belonging to the 74HC family. It functions as a 12-stage binary ripple counter, equipped with a built-in oscillator and a master reset. This device is renowned for its wide operating voltage range from 2V to 6V, allowing for compatibility with various logic levels and robust performance in diverse electronic systems. Its high noise immunity and low power consumption, characteristic of CMOS technology, make it a preferred choice for numerous digital counting applications.
Datasheet Overview
A thorough review of the datasheet is crucial for proper implementation. Key absolute maximum ratings include a DC supply voltage range from -0.5V to +7.0V and a DC input diode current of ±20 mA. The device operates effectively within a recommended temperature range of -55°C to +125°C. Electrical characteristics detailed in the datasheet, such as high-level output current ($V_{CC}$ = 4.5V, $V_O$ = 4.4V) of -5.2 mA, ensure designers can correctly interface the counter with other components. The propagation delay time is typically 24 ns with a 4.5V supply, highlighting its high-speed operation.
Pinout Configuration
The MC74HC4040ADR2G is available in a 16-pin SOIC package. Its pinout is defined as follows:
Pin 10 (GND): Ground reference.
Pin 11 (CLK): The negative-edge triggered clock input. A high-to-low transition advances the counter.
Pin 12 (Q9): Output of the 9th counter stage.
Pin 13 (Q8): Output of the 8th counter stage.
Pin 14 (Q10): Output of the 10th counter stage.
Pin 15 (Q11): Output of the 11th counter stage.
Pin 16 ($V_{CC}$): Positive supply voltage.
Pin 1 (Q12): Output of the 12th and highest counter stage.
Pin 2 (Q13): Not connected (this IC is a 12-stage counter, so pin 2 is N/C).

Pin 3 (Q6): Output of the 6th counter stage.
Pin 4 (Q5): Output of the 5th counter stage.
Pin 5 (Q7): Output of the 7th counter stage.
Pin 6 (Q4): Output of the 4th counter stage.
Pin 7 (Q3): Output of the 3rd counter stage.
Pin 8 (Q2): Output of the 2nd counter stage.
Pin 9 (MR): Master Reset input. A high level on this pin asynchronously clears all counter stages to zero (Q0-Q11 low).
Application Circuits
The versatility of the MC74HC4040ADR2G allows it to be used in a multitude of circuits.
1. Frequency Divider: Its primary function is dividing an input clock signal by different powers of two. Each output (Qn) provides a square wave with a frequency equal to $f_{CLK}/2^{n+1}$. This is invaluable in clock generation circuits for microcontrollers or digital signal processing.
2. Timer/Counter Circuits: By utilizing the master reset function in a feedback loop, the counter can be configured to create specific timing intervals or event counters. For instance, connecting a higher-order output (e.g., Q12) to the MR pin will make the counter reset after a predetermined number of clock pulses.
3. LED Chaser/Light Display: The outputs can directly drive LEDs (with appropriate current-limiting resistors) to create dynamic lighting effects or bar graph displays that represent the count value.
4. Waveform Generation: The divided outputs can be combined using logic gates to generate complex waveforms with specific duty cycles or for use in digital-to-analog converter (DAC) circuits.
ICGOODFIND Summary
The onsemi MC74HC4040ADR2G is a highly reliable and efficient 12-stage binary ripple counter essential for digital design. Its key strengths lie in its high-speed operation, low power consumption, and wide operating voltage range. Understanding its negative-edge triggered clocking and asynchronous master reset is critical for designing accurate frequency division, timing, and event counting applications. This component remains a fundamental building block in modern electronics.
Keywords: Binary Ripple Counter, Frequency Divider, 74HC Series, Master Reset, Negative-Edge Triggered.
