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.
stripboard 24 rows × 37 holes (cut to required size)
Most parts are supplied in packs but the extras are likely to be useful for other projects. Also see advice for building up a
starter kit of parts.
Stripboard Layout
Circuit diagram
How it works
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.
