PURPOSE: To obtain the programmable counter with high function by selecting the operating mode in response to a signal from an input terminal and a carry signal and inputting a signal in response to the mode to a data input of a flip- flop.

CONSTITUTION: An EOR3 and an AND/EOR4 are connected to an output of a D flip-flop 1 to generate a count-up signal of each flip-flop and the count-up signal or input data 10 are selected by a changeover device MUX1-5 and the selected signal is inputted to a D input of the flip-flop 1 to form a synchronization counter. Then a changeover device MUX2-6 is provided and switching signals 12, 13 are generated by using an operating mode switching signal 8, a start signal 9, a carry signal (count end signal) 11 and they are inputted to the MUX1-5. As a result, the changeover of the operating mode by the carry signal 11 and the input signals 8, 9 is attained and continuous frequency division by an optional setting value and only one count at a point of time when an external start signal 9 is inputted are attained.