Please help me build a 16 bit counter using flip flops

Other Hardware LEDs and Multiplexing
1

Im currently a little lost in my class, I need to build a 16 bit counter using only flip flops but i honestly dont know where to begin, im experienced with ardunio but the biggest curve ball was i cant use the ardunio for the counter, i can only use it to "source". I believe i need to use 4 flip flops, i understand about latch and clock times but i dont know how to connnect them in a way where it can do 16 bit counting. If anyone can help me maybe with a schematic diagram and an explanation i would greatly appreciate. Thank you for your time

2

The internet is awash with search results for "flip flop counter".

3

I believe i need to use 4 flip flops,

No you need 16 flip flops.

i understand about latch and clock times

I doubt it, why do you need a latch for a 16 bit counter? Unless there is something you are not telling us.

Simply take an edge triggered D-type flip flop and wire the D input to the Q bar output. Wire that also to the clock input of the next flip flop.

4

Seems the OP may be confused about 16-bit counter vs. count to 16.

5

dougp:
Seems the OP may be confused about 16-bit counter vs. count to 16.

Well with only four flip flops he is only going to be able to count to 15.

6

Grumpy_Mike:
Well with only four flip flops he is only going to be able to count to 15.

If he starts at 1 he is able to get to 16 :wink: I believe dougp wanted to say "counter with 16 states". In other words 16-bit vs 16-states counter.