Monday, April 8, 2013

Digital Stop Watch Using NE555 Timer IC

This is s design of digital stop watch circuit that built around timer IC LM555 and 4-digit counter IC MM74C926 with multiplexed 7-segment LED display. This is the figure of the circuit.


MM74C926 consists of a 4-digit counter, an internal output latch, NPN output sourcing drivers for common cathode, 7-segment display and an internal multiplexing circuitry with four multiplexing outputs. The counter advances on negative edge of the clock. The clock is generated by timer IC LM555. The circuit works off a 5V power supply. It can be easily assembled on a general-purpose PCB. Enclose the circuit in a metal box with provisions for four 7-segment displays, rotary switch S1, start/stop switch S2 and reset switch S3.

For operation this circuit is explanation in the next. First, reset the circuit by pressing S3 so that the display shows ‘0000.’ Now open switch S2 for the stop watch to start counting the time. If you want to stop the clock, close S2. Rotary switch S1 is used to select the different time periods at the output of the unstable multi vibrator (IC1). This circuit is powered by 5V DC. That power supply can take from regulator power supply. You can read in this site about the regulator that can be used.