Here is a simple circuit of a low-cost stopwatch that can count up to 99 seconds. The circuit uses CD4060, CD4013, CD4033, LTS543 and some discrete components. A crystal-controlled oscillator generates 1Hz pulses. A 32.768kHz miniature crystal is used for the purpose.
A low-cost stopwatch circuit
IC CD4060 (IC1) contains a 14-bit divider stage and oscillator section. The 2Hz output of IC1 at its pin 3 is fed to flip-flop IC CD4013 (IC2). IC2 converts 2 Hz into 1 Hz. The output of IC2 at pin 1 is fed to IC CD4033 (IC3) through switch S1. Carry-out pin 5 of IC3 is connected to pin 1 of another CD4033 (IC4) for further counting. IC3 and IC4 drive common-cathode display DIS1 and DIS2 to show the time (maximum 99 seconds). Switch S1 is used to start and stop the watch. You can reset the counter to zero by pressing reset switch S2.
For proper operation, first, connect a 9V power supply to the circuit, then reset the display by momentarily pressing switch S2. The display shows ‘00.’ Now to start counting, flip switch S1 to ‘on’ position. At the time of completion of an event, flip switch S1 to ‘off’ position. Time shown on the display is the time for the event.
Construction & testing
Assemble the circuit on a general-purpose PCB and enclose in a suitable case. Mount 7-segment, common-cathode displays DIS1 and DIS2, and switches S1 and S2, on the front panel of the cabinet. As the circuit employs CMOS ICs, the supply voltage may vary from 5V to 15V. 9V supply is recommended.
The project was first published in April 2009 and has recently been updated.
