Product Overview
The SN74HC138DR is a 3-line to 8-line decoder/demultiplexer from Texas Instruments. It accepts a 3-bit binary input and activates one of eight mutually exclusive outputs. With active-low outputs and multiple enable inputs, it is widely used for address decoding, data demultiplexing, and chip-select generation in digital systems. Packaged in SOIC-16.
Key Specifications
| Logic Family | 74HC (High-speed CMOS) |
| Function | 3-to-8 Decoder/Demultiplexer |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0V to 6.0V |
| Propagation Delay | ~25 ns at 5V |
| Output Drive | ±5.2 mA at 5V |
| Inputs | 3 address (A, B, C) + 3 enable (G1, G2A, G2B) |
| Outputs | 8 active-low (Y0-Y7) |
| Quiescent Current | 40 µA max at 25°C |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Package | SOIC-16 (3.9 mm width) |
Features
- 3-to-8 line decoding with active-low outputs
- Three enable inputs (one active-high, two active-low) for easy cascading
- Mutually exclusive output selection
- Standard 74HC pinout compatible across manufacturers
- Low quiescent power consumption
- Input clamp diodes for overvoltage protection
Applications
- Memory address decoding and chip-select generation
- Data demultiplexing in digital communication
- I/O port expansion with enable gating
- Clock distribution and enable signal routing
- Cascaded decoding for larger address spaces