SN74HC4060 - 14-Stage Binary Counter & Oscillator | TI
MPN: SN74HC4060 ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $0.45 | $0.45 |
| 10 | $0.38 | $3.80 |
| 100 | $0.29 | $29.00 |
| 500 | $0.24 | $120.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.19 | $190.00 |
SN74HC4060 Overview
A binary counter is a digital circuit that counts in binary sequence, incrementing on each clock pulse. The SN74HC4060 specifically is an asynchronous (ripple) counter, meaning each stage's output triggers the next, resulting in a simple but effective frequency division. It belongs to the 74HC family of high-speed CMOS logic, which combines the low power consumption of CMOS with the speed of TTL. The oscillator section allows the device to generate its own clock signal using either an RC network or a crystal, eliminating the need for an external clock source.
Key features include a 14-stage ripple-carry binary counter, an integrated oscillator supporting RC or crystal configurations, a master reset (CLR) input that disables the oscillator and clears the counter, and a clock input (CLKI) that increments the counter on high-to-low transitions. The device also offers a low input current of 1 µA max and a low power consumption of 80 µA max ICC, making it ideal for battery-powered applications.
Technically, the SN74HC4060 uses high-speed CMOS technology, providing a balanced combination of speed and power efficiency. The oscillator section can be configured with external components to generate frequencies from sub-Hz to several MHz, depending on the RC or crystal values. The counter stages divide the oscillator frequency by powers of two, allowing precise frequency division for timing applications. The clear function ensures the counter can be reset to zero at any time, which is essential for synchronized operations.
Typical applications include frequency dividers, timers, and oscillator circuits in consumer electronics, industrial control systems, and communication devices. For example, it can be used to generate precise time delays in microcontroller systems or to divide a crystal oscillator frequency down to a usable clock for peripherals. Its wide operating voltage range and robust output drive make it compatible with both 3.3V and 5V logic systems.
When designing with the SN74HC4060, ensure that the oscillator components are placed close to the IC to minimize parasitic capacitance and noise. For crystal oscillators, use the recommended load capacitors as specified in the datasheet. Also, consider the counter's asynchronous nature, which may introduce glitches on outputs; adding output flip-flops can synchronize the count if needed.
Drop-in alternatives for SN74HC4060 — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
CD74HC4060M
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
CD74HC4060E
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MC74HC4060ADR2G
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
HEF4060BT
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
CD4060BM96
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
SN74HC4060 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Function | 14-Stage Asynchronous Binary Counter and Oscillator |
| Number of Bits | 14 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2 V to 6 V |
| Output Drive | ±4 mA at 5 V |
| Input Current | 1 µA max |
| Max ICC | 80 µA |
| Propagation Delay (tpd) | 14 ns typical |
| Clock Trigger Type | Negative Edge |
| Oscillator Support | RC or Crystal |
| Clear Input | Active High |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C |
| Package Options | 16-SOIC, 16-PDIP, 16-TSSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount or Through Hole |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| Logic Family | 74HC |
SN74HC4060 Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | Q12 — Counter output bit 12 |
| Pin 2 | Q13 — Counter output bit 13 |
| Pin 3 | Q14 — Counter output bit 14 |
| Pin 4 | Q6 — Counter output bit 6 |
| Pin 5 | Q5 — Counter output bit 5 |
| Pin 6 | Q7 — Counter output bit 7 |
| Pin 7 | Q4 — Counter output bit 4 |
| Pin 8 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 9 | CLKI — Clock input (negative edge triggered) |
| Pin 10 | CLKO — Oscillator output |
| Pin 11 | CLKO — Oscillator inverted output |
| Pin 12 | CLR — Clear input (active high) |
| Pin 13 | Q1 — Counter output bit 1 |
| Pin 14 | Q0 — Counter output bit 0 |
| Pin 15 | Q2 — Counter output bit 2 |
| Pin 16 | VCC — Positive supply voltage |
Typical Applications
SN74HC4060 is suitable for 6 applications: Frequency Divider, Timer Circuits, Oscillator Circuits, LED Flasher, Industrial Timers, Battery-Powered Devices.
Frequency Divider
The SN74HC4060 divides an input frequency by powers of two, making it ideal for generating lower-frequency clocks from a high-frequency oscillator. For example, with a 32.768 kHz crystal, the Q14 output provides a 2 Hz signal for real-time clocks. Its low power consumption (80 µA max) suits battery-powered devices. The counter's asynchronous nature means outputs may glitch, so external flip-flops can synchronize them if needed.
Recommended
Timer Circuits
The SN74HC4060 can create precise time delays by counting oscillator pulses. For instance, an RC oscillator with R=100kΩ and C=1µF produces a frequency of about 4.5 Hz, and the Q14 output toggles every 3640 seconds (about 1 hour). This makes it useful for interval timers in appliances or industrial equipment. The clear input allows resetting the count, enabling repeatable timing cycles.
Recommended
Oscillator Circuits
The integrated oscillator supports both RC and crystal configurations, providing a stable clock source without an external oscillator IC. For crystal operation, the SN74HC4060 can generate frequencies up to several MHz with proper load capacitors. This is ideal for microcontroller systems needing a secondary clock or for generating a precise timebase. The oscillator's low power consumption is beneficial for always-on applications.
Recommended
LED Flasher
By using the SN74HC4060 as a frequency divider, you can create LED flashers with adjustable rates. For example, with an RC oscillator set to 1 Hz, the Q4 output provides a 0.0625 Hz signal, causing an LED to blink every 16 seconds. The device can drive LEDs directly through a resistor, as it can source or sink up to 4 mA at 5V. This is a simple, low-cost solution for status indicators.
Recommended
Industrial Timers
In industrial control systems, the SN74HC4060 can generate precise timing intervals for process control, such as conveyor belt delays or machine cycle times. Its wide operating voltage (2V to 6V) allows integration with both 3.3V and 5V logic. The robust output drive (±4 mA) can interface with relays or optocouplers through a transistor. The device's low power consumption reduces heat in enclosed panels.
Recommended
Battery-Powered Devices
The SN74HC4060's low power consumption (80 µA max) makes it ideal for battery-powered devices that require periodic wake-up or timing functions. For example, a sensor node can use the counter to wake up every few seconds to take a measurement, then return to sleep. The oscillator can be gated by the clear input to save power when not needed. This extends battery life significantly.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for SN74HC4060 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | CD74HC4060M | MC74HC4060ADR2G | HEF4060BT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 16-SOIC, 16-PDIP, 16-TSSOP | 16-SOIC | 16-SOIC | 16-SOIC |
| Brand | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | onsemi | NXP Semiconductors |
| Number of Stages | 14 | 14 | 14 | 14 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2V to 6V | 2V to 6V | 2V to 6V | 3V to 15V |
| Propagation Delay (tpd) | 14 ns typical | 14 ns typical | 14 ns typical | 60 ns typical |
| Output Drive | ±4 mA at 5V | ±4 mA at 5V | ±4 mA at 5V | ±1 mA at 5V |
| Max ICC | 80 µA | 80 µA | 80 µA | 20 µA |
| Oscillator Support | RC or Crystal | RC or Crystal | RC or Crystal | RC or Crystal |
Key Differentiators
- Integrated oscillator with RC or crystal support (vs CD4060BM96)
- High-speed CMOS technology (vs HEF4060BT)
- Wide operating voltage range (vs MC74HC4060ADR2G)
Design Notes
Place the oscillator components (resistor and capacitor for RC, or crystal and load capacitors) as close to the CLKI and CLKO pins as possible to minimize parasitic capacitance and noise. Use short traces and a ground plane to reduce interference. For crystal oscillators, follow the manufacturer's recommended load capacitance values to ensure accurate frequency.
Decouple the VCC pin with a 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor placed close to the IC. The SN74HC4060 operates from 2V to 6V, so ensure the supply voltage is stable and within this range. At higher frequencies, the dynamic current may increase, so a larger bulk capacitor (e.g., 10 µF) may be needed on the power rail.
The counter is asynchronous, so outputs may glitch during transitions. If glitch-free outputs are required, use external flip-flops to synchronize the outputs. Also, the clear input (CLR) is active high; ensure it is tied to ground when not used to prevent accidental clearing. Do not leave unused inputs floating; tie them to VCC or GND as appropriate.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per TI product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified.
