Designing a Traffic Light Circuit with 555 Timers

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on designing a traffic light circuit using 555 timers and LEDs. The primary goal is to have a sequence where one LED lights up at a time, controlled by a 555 timer configured as a monostable multivibrator. While some participants suggest using multiple 555 timers for different phases, others recommend integrating a state machine to enhance functionality and flexibility. The consensus emphasizes that while 555 timers can achieve the desired outcome, their limitations may necessitate additional components for more complex designs.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of 555 timer configurations, specifically monostable mode
  • Basic knowledge of LED circuit design and operation
  • Familiarity with state machines and their implementation in circuits
  • Experience with electronic components and circuit assembly
NEXT STEPS
  • Research 555 timer monostable configurations for LED control
  • Learn about designing state machines for sequential logic circuits
  • Explore advanced LED driving techniques for traffic light simulations
  • Investigate troubleshooting methods for 555 timer circuits
USEFUL FOR

Electronics enthusiasts, hobbyists designing simple circuits, and students studying basic digital logic and timer applications.

JoshHolloway
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I am trying to make a circuit that works basically just like a traffic light. I want to use LED's and a 555 timer. So I want the first LED to be lit upon applying a voltage, then I will use some type of switch that activates the next LED to light up and stay lit for a specific amount of time, then the last LED will light up and stay lit. And I only want one LED to be lit at a time. I know I can do this with a decade counter, but the only IC I want to use is a 555 timer, but it doesn't matter how many of them I use. Any ideas?
 
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without counters, 555 timers could work as one shots. But for some reason many people I knew had trouble getting 555 timers to work as one shots. With JUST 555 timers, your design would be somewhat limited. Hook it onto a state machine for more flexibility
 

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