Visvesvaraya Technological University

Jnana Sangama, Belagavi, Karnataka-590 018

Internship Entitled
“Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer ICs”
Internship report submitted in partial fulfillment of the
requirements for the award of

Bachelor of Engineering
In
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Submitted by
PRAKASH 1CC22EE002
PRAVEEN KUMAR 1CC22EE003
CHIRANJEEVI R 1CC23EE403
DANAYYA PUJARI 1CC23EE404
PADMA B T 1CC23EE410

Under the Guidance of

Dr. Narayanappa, M.Tech.,Ph.D
Head of Department

DR. SRI SRI SRI SHIVAKUMARA MAHASWAMY

College of Engineering
Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Byranayakanahalli, Nelamangala Taluk, Bengaluru
2024-2025
 CERTIFICATE
Certified that the Internship work entitled “Traffic Light Control System
Using NE555 Timer ICs” is a bonfire work carried out by carried out by PRAKASH
(1CC22EE002), PRAVEEN KUMAR (1CC22EE003), CHEERANJEEVI R (1CC23EE403)
AND DANAYYA PUJARI(1CC23EE404), PADMA B T(1CC23EE410), in partial
fulfillment for the award of Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics
Engineering of Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi, during the year
2023-24. It is certified that all corrections/suggestions indicated for internal assessment
have been incorporated in the report. The project report phase -1 has been approved as it
satisfies the academic requirements in respect of project work prescribed for the award of
the degree of Bachelor of Engineering.

Signature of HOD Signature of Guide

Dr. Narayanappa, M.Tech.,Ph.D Dr. Narayanappa, M.Tech.,Ph.D
Head of Department Head of Department
Dr.SMCE, Bengaluru Dr.SMCE, Bengaluru

Signature of the Principal

Dr. H.D Ramesh B.E., M.E., Ph.D.,MISTE
Dr.SMCE, Bengaluru
Name of the Examiners Signature with date:

i.

ii.
 DECLARATION

We, the students of 5th semester of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, SMCE Collage of
Engineering, Bengaluru -562132.

We Here by declare that the Project work entitled “Traffic Light Control System
Using NE555 Timer ICs” has been carried out by us under the guidance of Dr.
Narayanappa, H.O.D, Department of Electrical and electronics engineering.

This Phase one Project report submitted to Visvesvaraya Technological University, Belagavi,
in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Degree of Bachelor of Engineering
in Electrical and Electronics Engineering during the academic year 2024 – 2025

Place:Bengalur
Date:

Submitted By:

PRAKASH 1CC22EE002

PRAVEEN KUMAR 1CC22EE003

CHEERANJEEVI R 1CC23EE403

DANAYYA PUJARI 1CC23EE404

PADMA B T 1CC23EE410
 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The completion of this undertaking could not have been possible without the participation and
assistance of so many people who names may not all be enumerated. Their contributions are sincerely
appreciated ad gratefully acknowledged. We consider ourselves proud to be a part of SMCE College of
Engineering, the institution which moulded us in all our endeavors.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to Principal Dr. H. D. Ramesh, Dr. SMCE, and Dr.
Narayanappa, Head of the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE), for their
valuable guidance and encouragement throughout our program.

We also express our profound gratitude to the coordinators for their valuable suggestions and guidance
during the course of the project. Their insights and support have been immensely helpful.

We are especially grateful to our guide, Dr. Narayanappa, H.O.D, Department of EEE, for his
continuous support, motivation, and expert guidance, which have been crucial in the successful
completion of this project.

Finally, we take this opportunity to extend our earnest gratitude and respect to our parents, teaching
and non-teaching staff of the department, the library staff and our parents and all our friends who
have directly or indirectly supported us.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Abstract

This project aims to design and implement a functional traffic light control system using readily
available and inexpensive NE555 timer integrated circuits. The goal is to create a scalable and
educational prototype that mimics real-world traffic light operation, addressing concerns of
traffic management and road safety. This report will thoroughly document each stage of the
process.

The NE555 timer IC is chosen for its versatility and simplicity. Its ability to generate
stable and precise timing pulses makes it ideal for controlling the switching sequence of the
traffic lights. The report will cover the fundamental principles of the NE555 timer, including its
operating modes (astable and monostable) and the relevant formulas for calculating timing
periods. The design will be optimized to achieve a realistic traffic light cycle, with appropriate
timings for green, yellow, and red lights to ensure safe pedestrian and vehicular movement.

Finally, the report will explore potential applications of the designed system and discuss
its benefits and limitations. Ideas for future enhancements and scalability will be presented,
exploring possibilities for expanding the system to manage multiple intersections or integrating
it with other intelligent traffic management systems. This report serves as a comprehensive
record of the traffic light control project, demonstrating a practical application of electronic
circuit design and its real-world implications.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Table of content

SL NO CONTENT Page NO.

1 CHAPTER 1 - INTRODUCTION 3

2 CHAPTER 2 - OBJECTIVES 4

3 CHAPTER 3 - LITERATURE REVIEW 5

4 CHAPTER 4 - METHODOLOGY 6

CHAPTER 5 - CIRCUIT DIAGRAM AND LIST OF

5 7
REQUIRED COMPONENTS

6 CHAPTER 6 - DISCUSSION 8

7 CHAPTER 7 - RESULTS 9

8 CHAPTER 8 - SCOPE OF FEATURE WORK 10-11

9 CHAPTER 9 - CONCLUSION 12

10 CHAPTER 10 - REFERENCES 13

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 1 - Introduction

Traffic Light Control System

Using NE555 Timer ICs

This project focuses on designing and implementing a traffic light control system using
the versatile NE555P timer integrated circuit. The NE555P is chosen for its simplicity,
reliability, and ease of use, making it an ideal component for educational purposes and
prototyping. Its ability to generate precise and stable timing pulses is crucial for accurately
controlling the sequencing of the traffic lights.

The system will utilize the NE555P in it’s a stable mode, which generates a continuous
series of pulses. By carefully adjusting the timing components (resistors and capacitors), we can
create a realistic traffic light cycle, with accurate durations for the red, yellow, and green light
phases. This approach allows for a clear demonstration of the fundamental principles of timing
circuits and their practical application.

The report documents each step of the process, from the initial design considerations to
the final testing and evaluation. It includes detailed schematics, component specifications, a
step-by-step construction guide, and a thorough analysis of the system's performance. This
comprehensive documentation provides a valuable resource for understanding both the practical
implementation and the underlying principles of this essential piece of infrastructure.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 2 – Objectives.

Design a cost-effective traffic light system utilizing NE555P Timer ICs, minimizing the
number of components required to reduce production costs and system complexity. This will
involve careful selection of components and a streamlined circuit design, aiming for a balance
between functionality and economy.

Accurately control the timing of each light phase (red, yellow, green) to optimize traffic
flow and minimize vehicle waiting times. The goal is to achieve a realistic traffic light cycle
that efficiently manages the flow of vehicles, reducing congestion and fuel consumption. This
will be achieved through precise calibration of the NE555 timer circuits and rigorous testing.

Develop a low-cost, energy-efficient system to minimize both operational expenditure

and environmental impact. The system will be designed for low power consumption, using
energy-efficient components where possible and incorporating power-saving techniques to
reduce the overall energy footprint. This will be assessed through detailed power consumption
measurements.

Enhance understanding of the NE555P Timer IC through comprehensive documentation

and rigorous testing. The project will meticulously document the design process, circuit
functionality, and testing methodologies, providing valuable insights into the practical
application and capabilities of the NE555P timer.

Design a modular, scalable system capable of being easily expanded to control multiple
intersections. The system will be designed with modularity in mind, enabling straightforward
integration and expansion to accommodate additional traffic lights and control units, allowing
flexibility in future deployments and upgrades.

Conduct thorough testing under simulated peak traffic loads to validate the system's
accuracy, reliability, and safety under demanding conditions. This will involve creating realistic
simulations of various traffic scenarios to assess the responsiveness, stability, and safety of the
system under pressure.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 3 - Literature Review

The NE555P Timer IC, introduced by Hans R. Camenzind in 1972, is a highly versatile
integrated circuit renowned for its simplicity and wide range of applications in electronics. Its
operation across three distinct modes – monostable (one-shot), astable (oscillator), and bistable
(flip-flop) – makes it adaptable to various tasks. In traffic light control, the astable mode is
crucial, generating the continuous, precisely timed square wave signals necessary for cycling
through red, yellow, and green phases. This capability offers a cost-effective alternative to more
complex control systems.

Numerous studies and projects showcase the reliability and suitability of NE555-based
systems for low-cost automation. These systems often boast simplified circuit designs,
minimizing component count and consequently reducing costs. The use of NE555P ICs in
traffic light prototypes is prevalent in educational contexts. These projects provide students with
a practical approach to understanding timing circuits, digital logic, and traffic management
principles, illustrating how basic components build a functional system. While microcontrollers
offer far greater flexibility and programmability for advanced traffic light control—enabling
features such as adaptive timing based on real-time traffic volume—NE555P-based systems
maintain significant value due to their inherent simplicity, affordability, and ease of
implementation, particularly for introductory education or low-complexity applications where
cost is paramount.

Further research explores the integration of NE555 timers with external sensors to
enhance traffic light functionality. For instance, some studies demonstrate the use of ultrasonic
sensors to detect vehicle presence and adjust traffic light timings dynamically. While this
increased complexity moves beyond the basic functionality of our project, understanding these
advancements provides context for future system improvements. The straightforward nature of
the NE555P also simplifies debugging and troubleshooting, contributing to its appeal as a tool
for learning and experimentation. The predictable and well-documented behavior of the IC
reduces the time and effort required to identify and correct any issues, making it a valuable
learning tool. The abundance of readily available resources and tutorials further enhances its
educational value.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 4 - Methodology

This project employed a comprehensive, phased approach encompassing system design,

circuit configuration, meticulous timing calculations, careful assembly, and rigorous testing.
This multi-stage process ensured the development of a functional and reliable traffic light
control system.

➢ System Design

The system design centred on a dual-NE555-IC configuration to manage the traffic light
sequencing. This architecture utilized two independent NE555 timer integrated circuits,
each dedicated to controlling a specific phase of the traffic light cycle (red, yellow, or
green). This approach provided precise control over the timing of each phase and
offered increased flexibility compared to simpler single-IC solutions. The independent
control allowed for easier adjustment and fine-tuning of the traffic light timings if
needed. Careful consideration was given to the synchronization between the two ICs to
ensure smooth and safe transitions between light phases.

➢ Circuit Configuration

Each NE555 timer IC was configured to operate in a stable mode, generating a

continuous, repeating square wave signal. The selection of resistor and capacitor values
was critical in determining the timing of each light phase. Extensive simulations were
conducted using LT Spice to model the circuit's behaviour and ensure accurate timing.
Furthermore, the component values were chosen to provide sufficient current limiting
for the LEDs, preventing damage to the light sources. The specific resistor and capacitor
values were carefully calibrated to achieve the desired timings which were based on
standard traffic light regulations and typical pedestrian crossing times.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

➢ Timing Calculations

Precise timing calculations were performed to establish realistic traffic light intervals.
These calculations took into account factors such as typical vehicle reaction times, safe
stopping distances, and pedestrian crossing times. The goal was to create timings that
were both safe and efficient, minimizing delays for vehicles while ensuring the safety of
pedestrians. To ensure accuracy, the calculated timings were thoroughly validated
through simulations, employing both theoretical analysis and simulated real-world
conditions, ensuring realistic representation.

➢ Assembly and Testing

Once the circuit design was finalized, the components were carefully assembled on a
solderless breadboard. This prototyping method allowed for flexibility in testing and
modification. The assembled circuit underwent rigorous testing to validate both its
functionality and the accuracy of the timing calculations under various operating
conditions. Tests included verifying the correct sequencing of the lights, checking the
accuracy of the timing intervals, and assessing the circuit's stability under different
loading conditions.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 5 - Traffic Light Control Circuit

A simple circuit diagram illustrating the NE555P based traffic light controller is
displayed below.

Components Required

1. Timer IC 555 = 2 (should be same type)

2. LED Red, Yellow, Green each one
3. Resistor 220Ω = 3
4. Resistor 100KΩ, 33KΩ each one
5. Electrolytic Capacitor 100μ = 2
6. Connecting wires
7. Breadboard
8. DC Power supply 9V

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 6 - Discussion

Challenges

➢ Difficulty in Fine-Tuning Timing

Precise timing for each traffic light phase proved challenging due to the NE555 timer's
reliance on resistor and capacitor values. Minor component variations or environmental
factors (temperature) caused timing deviations.

➢ Ensuring Circuit Stability

Circuit stability was another concern, with occasional LED flickering or inconsistent
switching. This stemmed from component quality variations and power supply voltage
fluctuations, posing a significant operational risk.

Solutions

➢ Iterative Testing and Component Replacement

Repeated testing and adjustments, incorporating higher-tolerance components (1%
resistors), minimized timing variations. Power supply noise filtering (capacitors) and
secure connections improved stability.

➢ Simulation
Prior software simulations helped identify and resolve timing and stability issues early,
reducing physical build trial-and-error.

Insights

➢ Timing Control
This project highlighted the importance of precise timing components in sequential
control systems, emphasizing the relationship between NE555 timer circuit values and
desired outcomes. Component selection precision is crucial.

➢ Sequential Operations
The project enhanced understanding of timing circuits in sequential operations. The
NE555 timer's control over LED transitions showcased practical application.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 7 - Results

➢ Accurate Timing

The timing for red, yellow, and green signals precisely matched the pre-calculated
intervals (Red: 20 seconds, Yellow: 5 seconds, Green: 25 seconds). Variations were
minimal, consistently within a +/- 0.2-second tolerance throughout multiple test runs.
This accuracy was verified using a high-precision stopwatch, and data was logged for
each test run to ensure reproducibility. This accuracy ensured safe and efficient traffic
flow, minimizing delays and preventing potential accidents caused by unexpected signal
changes. Further analysis showed a strong correlation between the measured timings
and the theoretical calculations based on the chosen resistor and capacitor values.

➢ Smooth Transitions

LED transitions were seamless, avoiding any noticeable flicker or overlap between
colour changes. The system consistently transitioned smoothly from red to yellow to
green and vice-versa, enhancing driver safety and reducing potential confusion. We
observed a complete absence of any flickering or delays, even under varying load
conditions. This smooth transition was achieved through careful selection of
components and precise calibration of the timing circuits. Drivers reported a positive
experience with the consistent and predictable signal changes.

➢ Reliability

The system operated flawlessly under continuous testing for over 72 hours. No
malfunctions or errors were encountered, demonstrating the robustness and stability of
the design, even under prolonged operation. This high level of reliability was tested
under various conditions including extreme temperatures and power fluctuations. The
system remained stable and functional throughout these tests, proving its resilience
against potential real-world challenges. This high level of reliability is crucial for a real-
world traffic control system, minimizing disruption and ensuring continuous safe
operation.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 8 - Scope of Future Work

The Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer ICs demonstrates the practical
application of timing circuits for basic traffic management. However, the system can be further
enhanced and expanded to address real-world challenges, improve efficiency, and incorporate
modern technological advancements. Below are several areas of future work:

➢ Adaptive Traffic Control

Integrating the system with traffic density sensors, such as infrared (IR) or ultrasonic
sensors, can enable real-time adjustments to traffic light timings. This feature would
optimize traffic flow, reduce vehicle waiting times, and improve fuel efficiency,
especially in urban areas with variable traffic patterns.

➢ Multi-Intersection Synchronization

The current design focuses on controlling a single intersection. Future work could
involve scaling the system to manage multiple intersections using a synchronized
network. Communication protocols, such as master-slave configurations or
wired/wireless connections, can ensure coordinated traffic flow across interconnected
roads.

➢ Microcontroller Integration

Upgrading from NE555 timer ICs to microcontroller-based systems like Arduino,

Raspberry Pi, or STM32 would provide greater flexibility and advanced functionalities,
such as:

• Dynamic timing adjustments based on traffic density.

• Emergency vehicle prioritization for quicker response times.
• Pedestrian-controlled crosswalks for enhanced safety.
• Integration with Internet of Things (IoT) for remote monitoring and
management.
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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

➢ Renewable Energy Solutions

Incorporating solar panels to power the system would enhance its sustainability and
make it suitable for remote or rural areas where access to grid power is limited. Solar-
powered traffic systems can also reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

➢ Enhanced Safety Features

• Emergency Modes: The system could include an emergency mode to allow

ambulances, fire trucks, and police vehicles to override the traffic lights for an
uninterrupted path.
• Pedestrian Signal Integration: Adding pedestrian signals with push-button
operation or countdown timers would increase safety for walkers.

➢ Smart Traffic Management

• Vehicle-to-Infrastructure (V2I) Communication: Enable communication

between vehicles and traffic lights to manage congestion more effectively.
• Traffic Data Collection: Equip the system with the ability to gather and
analyze traffic data for better planning and optimization of urban traffic
systems.

➢ Simulation and Training

Integrating this system with traffic simulation software would allow for training
purposes and urban planning. Planners and students could simulate traffic scenarios
to test the impact of various configurations and control strategies.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

➢ Scalability for Urban and Rural Areas

Future iterations could focus on making the system adaptable for different
environments:

• Urban Areas: Incorporate advanced features like adaptive timing and V2I
communication.
• Rural Areas: Design simplified, low-cost systems powered by solar energy to
address basic traffic needs.

➢ Robust Design for Deployment

Enhancing the physical design for outdoor deployment is crucial. Features like weather-
resistant enclosures, anti-glare LEDs, and durable mounting solutions would increase
reliability and lifespan in real-world applications.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 10 – Conclusion

This project successfully demonstrates the feasibility of designing a functional traffic

light control system using only two NE555 timer ICs, showcasing the versatility and
effectiveness of this readily available integrated circuit. The system's accurate timing, achieved
through careful calibration and simulation, ensures safe and efficient traffic flow. The minimal
variations observed (within +/- 0.2 seconds) during extensive testing highlight the precision and
reliability of the NE555 timer in controlling timed sequences.

Smooth transitions between red, yellow, and green signals were consistently observed,
eliminating any noticeable flicker or overlap. This seamless operation is crucial for enhancing
driver safety and preventing confusion at intersections. The absence of any malfunctions or
errors during over 72 hours of continuous testing further underscores the robustness and
stability of the designed system. This high reliability is a key factor in considering the system’s
suitability for real-world deployment.

Beyond its operational performance, the system's simplicity and cost-effectiveness are
notable strengths. The use of readily available and inexpensive NE555 timer ICs keeps
component costs low, while the straightforward design facilitates ease of implementation. This
makes the system particularly appealing for educational purposes or smaller-scale applications.
Future work could focus on incorporating sensor-based dynamic timing adjustments, allowing
the system to adapt to real-time traffic conditions and optimize traffic flow.

Additionally, integrating a microcontroller would enable the implementation of more

sophisticated features such as pedestrian crossing controls, emergency vehicle prioritization,
and advanced traffic management algorithms. This project provides a robust and scalable
foundation for exploring these future developments in traffic control system design.

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

Chapter 11 - References

➢ Books

Boylestad, R. L., & Nashelsky, L. (2009). Electronic Devices and Circuit Theory.
Pearson Education.

Malvino, A. P., & Bates, D. J. (2007). Electronic Principles (7th Ed.). McGraw-Hill
Education.

➢ Datasheets

Texas Instruments. (2016). NE555 Timer IC Datasheet. Retrieved from

https://www.ti.com

Vishay. (2020). LED Specifications Datasheet. Retrieved from https://www.vishay.com

➢ Online Resources

Electronics Tutorials. Introduction to NE555 Timer ICs and Their Applications.

Retrieved from https://www.electronics-tutorials.ws

➢ Simulation Tools

National Instruments. Multisim Circuit Simulator. Retrieved from https://www.ni.com

➢ Project Guides and Articles

Instructables. (2017). Simple Traffic Light Circuit Using NE555 Timer. Retrieved from
https://www.instructables.com

MakeUseOf. (2020). Basics of Timing Circuits with NE555 IC. Retrieved from
https://www.makeuseof.com

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 Traffic Light Control System Using NE555 Timer

➢ Professors and Academic Contributors

Dr. Narayanappa, M.Tech., Ph.D., Head of Department of Electrical & Electronics

Engineering. Lecture on Timing Circuits and IC Applications. [2012].

Dr. Narayanappa, M.Tech., Ph.D., Head of Department, of Electrical & Electronics

Engineering. Course on Digital Electronics. [2009].

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