STMicroelectronics HCF4541M013TR

Overview

HCF4541M013TR from STMicroelectronics is a CMOS programmable 16-stage binary counter/timer IC with built-in RC oscillator, operating from 3V to 20V supply. It functions as a frequency divider (2^N, N = 8/10/13/16) or single-transition timer, features Q/Q output selection, MODE-controlled operation (recycle vs. one-shot), and auto/master reset for power-efficient startup. Used in precision timing circuits such as programmable delay generators and clock dividers in industrial control panels.

For engineers reviewing the HCF4541M013TR datasheet, HCF4541M013TR pinout, HCF4541M013TR application, or HCF4541M013TR equivalent, key considerations include oscillator frequency tuning via RTC/CTC, mode-select logic behavior, Q/Q output polarity control, and TTL/HTL load drive capability across -55°C to +125°C.

Technical Context

The device integrates a low-power RC oscillator whose frequency (DC–100 kHz) is set by external RTC, CTC, and RS components using f = 1/(2.3 × R_TC × C_TC). Counter advances on positive-edge clock transitions and supports four division ratios (256, 1024, 8192, 65536) selected by A/B inputs.

Output behavior is determined by MODE (pin 10): logic "1" enables continuous square-wave division; logic "0" enables single-transition timing after master reset, with output remaining high until next reset or mode change. Q/Q SELECT (pin 9) determines initial output state polarity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package), JEDEC MS-001AC compliant, through-hole mountable.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable timer applications.

Compared with CD4541BE and TLC555CP, HCF4541M013TR uniquely delivers programmable 8/10/13/16-bit division, Q/Q polarity control, and guaranteed 20 V operation with sub-µA quiescent current - essential for precision, low-power, and field-reconfigurable timing.

Availability

HCF4541M013TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial timer relays, programmable delay generators, low-power clock dividers, and reset-synchronized frequency synthesizers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for HCF4541M013TR includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing analog, digital, and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.

HCF4541M013TR belongs to ST's legacy HCF4000B-series CMOS logic family, engineered for robust, low-power timing and counting in harsh environments - emphasizing reliability, wide supply range, and direct TTL/HTL interfacing.

FAQ

What is the maximum external clock frequency supported on pin 3?

HCF4541M013TR supports up to 1.5 MHz at VDD = 5 V, 4 MHz at VDD = 10 V, and 6 MHz at VDD = 15 V. These values are specified in the Dynamic Electrical Characteristics table (page 6 of the datasheet) under f_CL, with test conditions including CL = 50 pF and RL = 200 kΩ. Performance degrades outside these conditions due to internal propagation delay limits.

How does the AUTO RESET (pin 5) interact with MASTER RESET (pin 6)?

When AUTO RESET (pin 5) is low, the device performs automatic power-on reset, clearing the counter and enabling oscillator startup. When pin 5 is high, AUTO RESET is disabled and MASTER RESET (pin 6) must be pulsed high to initialize the counter. Both cannot be active simultaneously - MR overrides AR during assertion, but AR governs initial state after power-up if enabled.

Can HCF4541M013TR drive standard 74LS TTL inputs directly?

Yes - it can drive six low-power TTL loads per output, verified at VDD = 5 V, 10 V, and 15 V. At VDD = 5 V, VOH ≥ 4.95 V and VOL ≤ 0.05 V meet 74LS input thresholds (VIH ≥ 2.0 V, VIL ≤ 0.8 V), and IOH/IOL ratings (±1.55 mA min.) exceed 74LS input current requirements (±0.4 mA).

What is the purpose of the RS pin (pin 3) when using the internal oscillator?

Pin 3 (RS) provides bias current to the internal RC oscillator circuit. When using the internal oscillator, RS connects to VDD through an external resistor (RS > 10 kΩ) to set oscillator current and stabilize frequency. If an external clock is used instead, RS becomes the clock input node and must be driven with CMOS-compatible logic levels.