Introduction:
Counters are basically used for counting anything. In electronics, counters are used for the counting of events on each received input pulse. The seven-segment displays are used to display the values of count and are known to be the oldest way to display counter values. The LEDs in the display are arranged in a manner that makes the decimal digit 8. The respective LED glows when the input pin gets the signal, and it can display the decimal digits from 0-9. The seven-segment displays are used in the various circuits for the display and are also used in LCDs. It can be of two types that are cathode type and anode type. It can be used with any low-voltage device directly.
A simple circuit of a seven-segment display counter is explained in this post for a clear understanding of its use and working principle.
Hardware Components
The following components are required to make Seven Segment Counter Circuit
| S.no | Component | Value | Qty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | IC | NE555 timer | 1 |
| 2. | IC | CD4026 | 1 |
| 3. | Seven segments LED | – | 1 |
| 4. | Resistor | 10KΩ, 68KΩ | 3, 1 |
| 5. | Capacitor | 1μF, 22μF | 1, 1 |
| 6. | Push-button switch | – | 2 |
| 7. | Battery | 9V | 1 |
CD4026 Pinout
For a detailed description of pinout, dimension features, and specifications download the datasheet of CD4026
NE555 IC Pinout
For a detailed description of pinout, dimension features, and specifications download the datasheet of 555 Timer
Seven Segment Counter Circuit
Working Explanation
A simple circuit uses a 555 timer IC, a decade counter IC 4026 and a seven-segment (common cathode type) LED. The 555 IC is configured in a monostable multivibrator mode that produces a pulse each time the count key is pressed. The clock pulse is an input to the IC 4026 that counts each pulse and derives the seven segments LED.
The switch button is coupled with the trigger pin of the IC 555 to provide negative input to the switch. The pulse generated by the timer IC depends upon the value of timing resistor R2 and timing capacitor C1. The pulse is given a balanced bias to it by the resistor R3 and capacitor C2. The monostable pulse acts as an input to the decade counter IC 4026 and for each pulse, it increments the counter value and drives the seven-segment LED. The count value can be reset by using the RESET button, or it repeats the count from 0-9 for each input received.
Applications:
The applications of seven-segment displays include:
- These seven-segment counters are used in timers, digital clocks, and wristwatches.
- They are also applicable in calculators and meters.
- The seven segments are used in RF indicators, speedometers, voltmeters, etc.
- Hence the seven segments can be used in many electronic devices as a display.
