Kathmandu
University
The Unpredictable
Circuit
Department
of
Electrical and Electronics Project members:
Engineering
Aakash karn
FIRST YEAR PROJECT Kushal prasad neupane
PROPOSAL
PRESENTATION Kunjan pandey
Aarya kumar basnet
Date: 20 May 2025
OUTLINE OF PRESENTATION
Background
Introduction
Problem Definition
Objectives of the Project
Literature Review
Project Methodology
Block Diagram
Expected Results
GANTT Chart
Circuit Diagram
References
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BACKGROUND
Random Number Generators (RNGs) are indispensable tools in modern electronics,
enabling functionalities ranging from gaming and simulations to security protocols
and cryptographic systems.
While advanced RNGs rely on sophisticated algorithms or quantum phenomena,
simpler implementations using basic integrated circuits (ICs) offer an accessible
entry point for understanding randomization principles.
Key Components:
555 Timer IC: Acts as an astable multivibrator to produce a continuous clock pulse.
4026 Decade Counter & 7-Segment Driver: Counts from 0 to 9 and directly drives a 7-
segment display.
7-Segment Display (Common Cathode/Anode): Visually displays the generated
numbers.
Push Button/Switch: Used to stop the counting and "freeze" a random number.
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Aakash karn, kushal p. neupane, kunjan panday & Aarya k. basnet
INTRODUCTION
The random number generator using 555 and 4026 ICs is a classic example of a pseudo-random number
generation technique. Since the 555 timer runs at an unpredictable frequency (due to slight variations in
resistor/capacitor tolerances), the exact stopping point is uncertain, making the output appear random.
Project Overview:
This project designs a 3-digit random number generator using one 555 timers and three 4026 ICs, each
driving a 7-segment display. The system mimics randomness by leveraging two factors:
Unpredictable Stopping: A user manually halts the clock signal via a push button.
Component Tolerances: Minor variations in resistor/capacitor values introduce slight timing irregularities.
Working Principle:
555 Timer (Clock Generator): The 555 IC is configured in astable mode to produce a continuous square
wave. The frequency can be adjusted using resistors and capacitors.
4026 Counter/Driver: The 4026 IC increments its count with each clock pulse and drives the 7-segment
display. After reaching 9, it resets to 0.
Randomization Mechanism: When the user presses a button, the clock signal is interrupted, freezing the
display at a seemingly random number.
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PROBLEM DEFINITION
[I] Game Nights: Replace dice with a 3-digit RNG for larger ranges
(e.g., 1–999).
[II] Classroom Quizzes: Randomly select student roll numbers for
Q&A sessions.
[III] DIY Raffles: Host a neighborhood contest with a "lucky
number" generator.
[IV] Eliminates Bias in Casual Decision-Making by Humans.
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Aakash karn, kushal p. neupane, kunjan panday & Aarya k. basnet
OBJECTIVES OF THE PROJECT
Demonstrate the Functionality of 555 Timer and 4026 IC.
Generate Perceptually Random Numbers (0–999).
Design a Low-Cost and Accessible System.
Educate on Basic Electronics Principles.
Key Takeaways:
Learning Focus: Mastery of fundamental electronics and timing
circuits.
Practical Output: A functional, interactive device for everyday
randomization tasks.
Foundation for Innovation: A stepping stone for more complex
projects in IoT, cryptography, or automation.
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Aakash karn, kushal p. neupane, kunjan panday & Aarya k. basnet
LITERATURE REVIEW
7-Segment Random Number Generator Using 555 & 4026 ICs:
[I] Foundations of Random Number Generation
Random number generators (RNGs) are critical in electronics, gaming, and simulations. Pseudo-RNGs, like
this project, rely on deterministic algorithms or hardware cycles to mimic randomness (Smith, 2018).
While less secure than true RNGs (which use analog noise or quantum effects), pseudo-RNGs are cost-
effective for basic applications (Jones & Patel, 2020).
[II] Role of the 555 Timer in Clock Generation
The 555 timer IC, configured in astable mode, is widely used to generate clock pulses in DIY electronics
(Horowitz & Hill, 2015). Its frequency is determined by resistors (R1,R2) and a capacitor(C), making it ideal
for driving counters like the 4026. However, its predictability limits cryptographic utility (Rahman, 2019).
[III] 4026 IC as a Counter-Display Driver
The 4026 IC combines a decade counter and 7-segment decoder, simplifying display interfacing (Texas
Instruments, 2010). Studies highlight its use in low-cost digital counters (Gupta, 2017), though
synchronization issues arise in multi-digit systems due to propagation delays (Kumar, 2021).
[IV] Human Intervention in Randomization
Manual button presses to halt counting introduce perceived randomness, leveraging human
unpredictability (Doe, 2022). While criticized for bias, this approach suits non-critical applications like
games (Lee, 2021).
[V] Limitations of Pseudo-Random Systems
This project’s reliance on fixed-frequency clocks and component tolerances results in low entropy (Chen,
2020). Academic reviews stress that pseudo-RNGs are vulnerable to reverse engineering (Nguyen et al.,
2019), making them unfit for encryption.
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PROJECT METHODOLOGY
The methodology for constructing the 7-segment random number generator using the 555 and 4026
ICs follows a structured approach to ensure functionality, reliability, and user-friendliness. The
process begins with design and simulation using software tools like Proteus to model the circuit.
Here, the 555 timer is configured in astable mode to generate a clock signal, while the 4026 ICs are
simulated to validate their counting and display-driving capabilities. This phase ensures theoretical
correctness before physical implementation.
Next, component selection focuses on sourcing affordable and widely available parts, such as the
555 timer IC, 4026 decade counters, common-cathode 7-segment displays, resistors, capacitors, and
a push button. Critical parameters, like selecting resistors(R1=1kohm,R2=10kohm) and a
capacitor(C=10μF) for the 555 timer, are finalized to achieve a ~10Hz clock frequency, balancing
visibility and perceived randomness.
The circuit assembly follows a staged approach: first building and testing the 555 timer's clock
output, then connecting 4026 ICs to 7-segment displays with current-limiting resistors. Three
cascaded 4026-display pairs create a 3-digit output, while a debounced push button (10kΩ+0.1μF RC
circuit) halts the display. Testing verifies the clock signal, counting accuracy, and button functionality,
with synchronization ensured through uniform clock distribution. Final assembly involves soldering
components to a PCB, housing them in a labeled enclosure with protective measures like a 7805
voltage regulator. Validation includes randomness testing and user feedback, with documentation
provided for replication. This method delivers a cost-effective, functional RNG suitable for education
and entertainment.
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Aakash karn, kushal p. neupane, kunjan panday & Aarya k. basnet
BLOCK DIAGRAM
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EXPECTED RESULTS
Upon the completion of this project, the system is expected
to possess the following characteristics:
[I] The circuit will successfully display rapidly changing numbers
(000–999) on three 7-segment displays when powered on.
[II] Pressing the push button will immediately freeze the display,
showing a seemingly random 3-digit number.
[III] Each 4026 IC will correctly cycle through digits 0–9 without
skipping or glitching.
[IV] All segments of the 7-segment displays will light up clearly
with uniform brightness.
[V] And hence we can sucessfully obtain the output, which is going
to contribute to our main goal.
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GANTT Chart
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Circuit Diagram
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REFERENCES
[I] [Link] Y.T. channel = EE Wave
[II] [Link]
[III] "The 555 Timer IC: An Essential Guide" – Forrest Mims (Basic working
principles & astable mode circuits)
[IV] CD4026BE Datasheet (TI’s technical documentation)
[V] "The Art of Electronics" – Horowitz & Hill (Circuit design fundamentals)
[VI] "Pseudo-Random Number Generation in Embedded Systems" – IEEE
xplore (Theoretical background)
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Thank You for
Listening!
For further information:
Aakash karn
Electrical and Electronics Engineering/2024
+977-9844401255
karnaakash55@[Link]
Topic and Authors Slide 14