Rider LED Sequencer Light using CD4017 IC and 555 Timer IC

[Sekhohub.online]

✅ Introduction

The Rider LED Sequencer Light is a popular decorative and educational electronics project. It’s often seen in motorcycles, cars, or DIY LED displays where LEDs light up in a chasing or “rider” pattern. In this tutorial, we’ll build a simple and effective LED chaser circuit using a CD4017 Decade Counter IC and a 555 Timer IC.

Materials for the Project

1x 4017 IC
1x 555 IC
6x LEDs
1x nF Capacitor
1x 10uF Capacitor
1x 10k Variable Resistor
1x 100 Ohm Resistor
7x 470 Ohm Resistors
2x 1k Resistors
1x 10k Resistor
Vero Board
Jumper Wires

Circuit Diagram Overview

The 555 Timer IC is configured in astable mode to act as a pulse generator (clock). Each pulse is sent to the CD4017 IC, which then turns on LEDs one by one, creating a chaser or rider light effect.

Download Circuit Diagram

Circuit Diagram

How the Circuit Works

555 Timer as Clock Generator
- Generates continuous square pulses (ON/OFF signals).
- Frequency is controlled by the resistor and capacitor values.
CD4017 as Decade Counter
- Takes each pulse and activates its 10 outputs (Q0–Q9) sequentially.
- Each output drives an individual LED.
LED Sequencing
- The 10 LEDs light up in a flowing pattern.
- Resets after Q9 and repeats the sequence.

Applications of LED Rider Light

Decorative lights for vehicles
Signal indicators
Electronics learning projects
Festive lighting systems
Embedded systems prototyping

Power Supply Suggestions

5V DC (USB power)
9V Battery (with connector)
12V Adapter (if LEDs and resistors are rated for higher voltage)

Conclusion

Creating a Rider LED Sequencer using CD4017 and 555 Timer IC is a fun and beginner-friendly electronics project. It helps you understand basic digital logic, ICs, and timing circuits. Whether you’re a student or a hobbyist, this project is a must-try for your toolkit.