74160 IC Synchronous 4-Bit Decade Counter
The IC 74160 is a synchronous 4-bit binary-coded decimal (BCD) counter designed to count from 0000 (0) to 1001 (9) in synchrony with a clock input. It features an asynchronous clear (CLR) that immediately resets the counter to zero regardless of the clock, and a parallel load (LOAD) that allows presetting a specific count.
Its synchronous counting ensures all flip-flops update simultaneously on each clock pulse, minimizing glitches common in ripple counters. The IC also provides a carry-out (TC) output, enabling cascading multiple counters to create larger counting ranges.
This counter integrates easily with other TTL devices and is widely used in digital clocks, frequency dividers, event counters, and timer circuits. It supports external gating for custom counting sequences and maintains stable performance at high clock speeds.
Pin Configuration
| Pin | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CLR | Asynchronous Clear (active LOW) |
| 2 | CLK | Clock Input |
| 3 | D | Parallel Data Input (MSB) |
| 4 | C | Parallel Data Input |
| 5 | B | Parallel Data Input |
| 6 | A | Parallel Data Input (LSB) |
| 7 | QA | Output Bit 0 |
| 8 | GND | Ground |
| 9 | QB | Output Bit 1 |
| 10 | QC | Output Bit 2 |
| 11 | QD | Output Bit 3 (MSB) |
| 12 | TC | Terminal Count Output |
| 13 | ENT | Count Enable (T) |
| 14 | ENP | Count Enable (P) |
| 15 | LOAD | Parallel Load Input (active LOW) |
| 16 | VCC | +5V Power Supply |
Key Features
Synchronous 4-bit decade counting (0–9)
Asynchronous clear input
Parallel load for preset counts
Terminal count output for cascading
TTL-compatible logic levels
Fast switching and reliable operation
Available in DIP-16 or SOIC-16 packages
Applications
Build digital clocks and timers using decade counting.
Divide clock frequencies by ten for timing signals.
Create event counters in automation systems.
Form multi-digit decimal counters through cascading.
Drive BCD-to-7-segment decoders for numeric displays.
Generate pulse sequences in control logic.
Manage sequence counting in test equipment.
Design frequency counters in measurement devices.
Build scoreboards and counting displays.
Implement educational logic experiments on counters.
Specifications Table
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Logic Family | TTL |
| Function | Synchronous BCD Counter |
| Count Range | 0–9 (mod-10) |
| Inputs | Clock, CLR, LOAD, ENABLE P/T |
| Outputs | Q0–Q3, Carry (TC) |
| Input HIGH Voltage | ≥ 2.0V |
| Input LOW Voltage | ≤ 0.8V |
| Output HIGH Voltage | ≥ 2.4V |
| Output LOW Voltage | ≤ 0.4V ‘ |
| Propagation Delay | ~25 ns |
| Max Clock Frequency | ~35 MHz |
| Supply Voltage (Vcc) | 4.75V to 5.25V |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 70°C |
| Package Type | DIP-16 / SOIC-16 |
| Number of Pins | 16 |
