MULTI-FUNCTION TIMER

PURPOSE:To expand the function of a timer and to select the function as required by providing a load circuit setting a desired initial value to a prescaler and a counter circuit. CONSTITUTION:Load registers 3, 4 to set an initial value to each of the prescaler 1 and the counter circuit 2 coupled therewith are provided and the initial value data is set to the load register 3, 4 and the initial value data in the load registers is set to the prescaler 1 and the counter circuit 2 by using a program of a microcomputer. The initial value is set to the prescaler 1 by the software and the prescaler 1 is controlled to function as the counter and the software selects a path through which a signal outputted from the prescaler 1 and a path through which the signal outputted not through the counter 2. Thus, the existing timer is expanded without a counter newly.