TRAFFIC SIGNALING

This project operates red, amber and green LEDs in the correct sequence for a single UK traffic light. The time taken for the complete red - red & amber - green - amber sequence can be varied from about 7s to about 2½ minutes by adjusting the 1M preset. Some amber LEDs emit light that is almost red so you may prefer to use a yellow LED.

The 555 astable circuit provides clock pulses for the 4017 counter which has ten outputs (Q0 to Q9). Each output becomes high in turn as the clock pulses are received. Appropriate outputs are combined with diodes to supply the amber and green LEDs. The red LED is connected to the ÷10 output which is high for the first 5 counts (Q0-Q4 high), this saves using 5 diodes for red and simplifies the circuit.


This project uses a 555 astable circuit to provide the clock pulses for the 4017 counter.


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Parts Required:
resistors: 470 ×3, 22k, 100k
capacitors: 0.1µF, 1µF 16V radial, 10µF 16V radial
diodes: 1N4148 ×6
LEDs: red, amber (or yellow), green
1M preset, horizontal
555 timer IC, such as NE555
4017 counter IC
DIL sockets for ICs: 8-pin, 16-pin
on/off switch
battery clip for 9V PP3
stripboard: 20 rows × 21 holes
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stripboard diagram

circuit diagram