Countdown Pedestrian Signal Installation Guide: Walk Time and Clearance
Introduction
A countdown pedestrian signal tells the pedestrian how many seconds remain in the flashing don't-walk phase. MUTCD requires countdown signals at all new signalised pedestrian crossings. This guide covers installation, programming and compliance.
Walk and Clearance Phases
A pedestrian phase has three parts:
1. Walk (steady walk symbol): typically 4-7 seconds, gives the pedestrian time to start crossing. 2. Flashing don't-walk (counting down): the pedestrian should not start crossing. Duration is calculated from the crossing distance and walking speed (typically 1.0-1.2 m/s). 3. Steady don't-walk: pedestrian must not be in the crosswalk.
The countdown timer displays the remaining flashing don't-walk time. GAOQIAO timers integrate directly with the controller and count down in seconds.
Calculating Clearance Time
The flashing don't-walk time equals (crossing distance) / (walking speed). For a 12 m crosswalk at 1.2 m/s: 12 / 1.2 = 10 seconds. Add a 1-2 second buffer for slower pedestrians. Most GAOQIAO controllers compute this automatically from the configured crossing distance.
Mounting Position
Mount the countdown signal on the same pole as the pedestrian signal head, 2.5-3.0 m above the sidewalk, in line with the crosswalk. The countdown signal must be visible from the opposite sidewalk (so pedestrians know how much time they have left when starting the crossing).
Power and Communication
Countdown timers can be:
- Standalone: a separate display module powered from the controller's pedestrian signal outputs.
- Integrated: built into the pedestrian signal head, sharing the same power supply.
GAOQIAO supplies both options. Standalone timers are easier to retrofit; integrated timers have a cleaner installation.
Featured Products
GAOQIAO supplies countdown pedestrian timers in 200mm and 300mm, with both standalone and integrated configurations. See the pedestrian crossing signal guide for selection.
Conclusion
A countdown pedestrian timer is now standard at signalised crossings. GAOQIAO supplies compliant timers that integrate with the controller. Send us your crosswalk distance and we will return a clearance-time calculation and quotation.
Get a Quote
Email: sky-sale@njgq.net WhatsApp/Phone: +86-18805173545 Tel: +86-25-84471080
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a countdown timer required?
MUTCD requires countdown timers at all new signalised pedestrian crossings since 2009. Most other national standards have similar requirements.
What if my walking speed assumption is wrong?
The 1.0-1.2 m/s default assumes a moderately slow pedestrian. For sites with many elderly users, drop to 1.0 m/s. For commuter sites, 1.2 m/s is fine.
Can a countdown timer be added to an existing intersection?
Yes, if the controller has a free output channel. GAOQIAO controllers support up to 56 outputs, so most retrofits are feasible.
Relevant GAOQIAO products
These public GAOQIAO catalogue pages are related to the guide. Open them for the representative description, then confirm the latest drawing and configuration before ordering.
- Traffic signal controllersWired and solar controllers with 6, 22, 44 and 56 output options.
- LED traffic signal heads200mm, 300mm and 400mm signal heads with MUTCD, EN12368, GB14886 compliance.
- Signal polesVertical, signal arm and double-arm poles for any intersection geometry.
- Spare parts and accessoriesSpare LED modules, lenses, visors, surge arrestors and anchor bolts.