74HC161 – 4-Bit Presettable Synchronous Binary Counter IC – SOIC-16 SMD Package

The 74HC161 – 4-Bit Presettable Synchronous Binary Counter IC is a high-speed CMOS digital logic integrated circuit designed for binary counting, frequency division, timing, and sequence control applications. Packaged in a compact SOIC-16 Surface Mount Device (SMD) package, it features a 4-bit synchronous binary counter with parallel preset (load) capability, synchronous counting, and asynchronous master reset. The synchronous architecture ensures that all output bits change state simultaneously with each clock pulse, minimizing propagation delays and improving overall system reliability.

The 74HC161 supports counting from 0 to 15 (0000 to 1111) in binary and includes a parallel load input, allowing a user-defined binary value to be loaded into the counter instead of starting from zero. An asynchronous clear (reset) input instantly resets the counter regardless of the clock signal, while count enable and terminal count outputs allow easy cascading of multiple counters to create higher-bit counting systems.

Built using advanced CMOS technology, the IC offers low power consumption, high noise immunity, and fast switching performance. It operates over a wide supply voltage range, making it compatible with both CMOS and TTL logic families. The compact SOIC-16 SMD package is ideal for modern PCB designs where space-saving and automated assembly are important.

The 74HC161 is widely used in digital counters, programmable timers, frequency dividers, event counting systems, digital clocks, embedded systems, industrial automation, communication equipment, Arduino projects, robotics, educational laboratories, and DIY electronics.

Features

• 4-bit synchronous binary counter

• Presettable parallel load function

• Counts from 0 to 15 (Binary)

• Synchronous counting for reliable operation

• Asynchronous master reset (clear)

• Count enable inputs for controlled counting

• Terminal count output for cascading multiple counters

• High-speed CMOS logic

• Low power consumption

• High noise immunity

• Wide operating voltage range

• Compatible with CMOS and TTL logic levels

• Compact SOIC-16 SMD package

• Suitable for automated PCB assembly

Applications

• Binary counting circuits

• Frequency divider circuits

• Digital clocks and timers

• Event counters

• Programmable timing systems

• Sequence generators

• Industrial automation equipment

• Embedded systems

• Communication systems

• Robotics and automation projects

• Arduino and microcontroller interfacing

• Educational laboratories

• Digital logic circuit design

• Test and measurement equipment

• DIY electronics projects