IEC · BCD/7SEG

IEC BCD-to-seven-segment decoder

IEC coder marked BCD/7SEG converting a 4-bit BCD input into seven segment-drive outputs a to g.

In plain English

What does IEC BCD-to-seven-segment decoder mean?

The BCD-to-seven-segment decoder is an X/Y coder with the additional drawing mark BCD/7SEG, sometimes written BCD/7-SEG. Inputs are weighted 1, 2, 4 and 8 and outputs are labelled a to g for the display segments. Many devices add lamp test and blanking inputs shown with their own labels.

A simple example

Seven-segment decoders appear on drawings for local numeric displays, counters and older instrument panels. The output stage type matters: many drivers have open-collector outputs intended to sink LED or lamp current, which should be shown with the open-circuit additional drawing mark.

Identify the device and formRead the connections and stateCheck the equipment reference
A guide to reading this reference. The original symbol illustration and its drawing notes appear below; these boxes are not a wiring diagram.

What the drawings help you do

The symbol does not state segment current, display type (common anode or cathode) or how non-BCD codes are displayed. Those come from the device data and display selection.

This particular reference

IEC coder marked BCD/7SEG converting a 4-bit BCD input into seven segment-drive outputs a to g. A BIN/OCT decoder activates one output per code; this coder activates a pattern of segments.

Signal
Electrical information passed between devices, rather than necessarily the main power supply.
Rating
A value stating the conditions for which equipment is specified.
Schematic
A drawing showing function and connections rather than physical appearance.

Read the source: Overview of IEEE Standard 91-1984: explanation of logic symbols (SDYZ001A) · SN74LS47 BCD-to-seven-segment decoders/drivers

IEC · X/Y coder with BCD/7SEG qualifier and segment outputs a to g

Qualifying-symbol and dependency conventions as explained in TI's public overview of IEEE Std 91-1984, which incorporates IEC 617-12 work. Independent educational drawing; not certified IEC geometry or an IEC database identifier.

Shown as an independently authored educational illustration. Use the cited publication and drawing legend to verify the required drafting form.

Schematic · BCD/7SEGIEC BCD-to-seven-segment decoder: original educational illustration
Original educational illustrationNot to scale · See source and graphic notes

What it represents

The BCD-to-seven-segment decoder is an X/Y coder with the qualifier BCD/7SEG, sometimes written BCD/7-SEG. Inputs are weighted 1, 2, 4 and 8 and outputs are labelled a to g for the display segments. Many devices add lamp test and blanking inputs shown with their own labels.

Seven-segment decoders appear on drawings for local numeric displays, counters and older instrument panels. The output stage type matters: many drivers have open-collector outputs intended to sink LED or lamp current, which should be shown with the open-circuit qualifier.

The symbol does not state segment current, display type (common anode or cathode) or how non-BCD codes are displayed. Those come from the device data and display selection.

How to read it

  • Outputs a to g map to display segments.
  • Check output type and display common connection.

Information to show or reference

  • Label segment outputs a to g.
  • Show lamp test and blanking inputs where used.
  • Show current-limiting resistors and display wiring.

A distinction that matters

A BIN/OCT decoder activates one output per code; this coder activates a pattern of segments.

Sources you can follow

These public references support the explanation and provide further detail. Their graphics and downloadable files remain with their publishers.

Overview of IEEE Standard 91-1984: explanation of logic symbols (SDYZ001A)

Lists BIN/7-SEG style coder designations.

Texas Instruments · Public reference checked 28 October 2026 · Link only

SN74LS47 BCD-to-seven-segment decoders/drivers

Manufacturer BCD-to-seven-segment decoder/driver documentation.

Texas Instruments · Public reference checked 28 October 2026 · Link only

About this graphic

This illustration was authored independently by Elora Grid to explain the concept. It is not reproduced from a customer drawing, an official standard graphic or a manufacturer CAD file. Its correspondence to an exact IEC or IEEE symbol identifier has not been certified.

SVG and DXF downloads contain this original artwork. DXF uses unscaled drawing units; a GA envelope supplies no product dimensions, clearances or fabrication information. Original artwork is available under CC BY 4.0. Third-party references retain their own terms.

Entry JSON · Entry Markdown · Last editorial update: 28 October 2026

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