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Nexperia USA Inc. 74HC138DB,118
- Part No.:
- 74HC138DB,118
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Category:
- Signal Switches, Multiplexers, Decoders
- Package:
- 16-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
74HC138DB,118.pdf
- Description:
- IC DECODER/DEMUX 1X3:8 16SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,593
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Product details
Overview
74HC138DB,118 from Nexperia is a 3-to-8 line inverting decoder/demultiplexer with three binary address inputs (A0–A2), eight active-LOW mutually exclusive outputs (Y0–Y7), and three enable inputs (E1, E2 = active LOW; E3 = active HIGH). It operates from 2.0 V to 6.0 V, supports memory chip select decoding and parallel expansion to 1-of-32, and is qualified for -40 °C to +125 °C operation in SO16 (SOT109-1) package.
For engineers reviewing the 74HC138DB,118 datasheet, 74HC138DB,118 pinout, 74HC138DB,118 application, or 74HC138DB,118 equivalent, this page delivers verified functional behavior, real-world timing values at 4.5 V/50 pF, SO16 pin mapping, thermal derating data, and validated alternatives for industrial control logic, address decoding, and demux-based signal routing.
Technical Context
The 74HC138DB,118 implements a combinational logic decoder with strict mutual exclusivity: only one output goes LOW when all enables are satisfied (E1=L, E2=L, E3=H) and a unique 3-bit address is applied. Its enable architecture-two active-LOW and one active-HIGH-enables cascading without external inversion, allowing four ICs plus one inverter to build a 5-to-32 decoder.
It features CMOS-level input thresholds (VIH ≥ 3.15 V @ VCC = 4.5 V), guaranteed VOL ≤ 0.26 V @ IO = 4.0 mA, and propagation delays as low as 15 ns (typ.) from address input to output at VCC = 4.5 V and CL = 50 pF. Input clamp diodes permit safe interfacing to voltages exceeding VCC when used with current-limiting resistors.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Function | 3-to-8 inverting decoder/demultiplexer with three enable inputs |
| Supply Voltage Range | 2.0 V to 6.0 V - supports mixed-voltage system interfacing and battery-powered logic |
| Propagation Delay (An → Yn) | 15 ns (typ.) @ VCC = 4.5 V, CL = 50 pF - determines maximum clock rate in address decode paths |
| Output Drive | ±4.0 mA (min.) @ VCC = 4.5 V - sufficient to drive TTL loads or multiple 74HC inputs |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C - qualified for under-hood industrial and extended-range embedded applications |
| Input Clamp Diodes | Integrated - enables overvoltage-tolerant input design using series resistors |
| ESD Protection | HBM > 2000 V, CDM > 1000 V - improves board-level robustness during handling and assembly |
Pinout & Package
74HC138DB,118 is supplied in SO16 (SOT109-1) plastic small outline package: 16-pin, 3.9 mm body width, 1.27 mm lead pitch, gull-wing leads. Pin 1 index located at top-left corner with notch or bevel marking.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | A0 | LSB address input - defines decoded output selection with A1/A2 |
| 2 | A1 | Mid-bit address input - part of 3-bit binary word selecting Y0–Y7 |
| 3 | A2 | MSB address input - completes 3-bit address for full 8-output decode |
| 4 | E1 | Enable input (active LOW) - must be LOW with E2 for decode activation |
| 5 | E2 | Enable input (active LOW) - second gating condition for output enable |
| 6 | E3 | Enable input (active HIGH) - third gating condition; HIGH enables decode path |
| 7 | Y0 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 000 and enables satisfied |
| 8 | GND | Ground reference - return path for all internal logic and I/O currents |
| 9 | Y1 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 001 |
| 10 | Y2 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 010 |
| 11 | Y3 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 011 |
| 12 | Y4 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 100 |
| 13 | Y5 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 101 |
| 14 | Y6 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 110 |
| 15 | Y7 | Active-LOW decoded output - LOW when A2A1A0 = 111 |
| 16 | VCC | Positive supply - powers internal CMOS circuitry; bypass capacitor required |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Multiple enable architecture | E1/E2 (active LOW) + E3 (active HIGH) enables hierarchical decoding and seamless 1-of-32 expansion |
| Demultiplexing capability | One enable input serves as data channel while others act as strobes - eliminates need for external mux logic |
| Wide voltage operation | 2.0 V to 6.0 V supply range allows direct interface with 3.3 V microcontrollers and legacy 5 V systems |
| High noise immunity | CMOS input structure with >40 % noise margin at VCC = 4.5 V ensures reliable operation in electrically noisy environments |
| Latch-up immunity | Exceeds 100 mA per JESD78 Class II Level B - prevents destructive latch-up during transient overvoltage events |
Applications
| Memory Address Decoding | Industrial PLC I/O Expansion |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Selecting one of eight SRAM or EEPROM chips in a microcontroller-based data logger. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: 3-bit address decoder generating chip-select signals with <15 ns propagation delay and active-LOW polarity matching memory enable inputs. Use Value: Eliminates discrete logic gates; reduces PCB area by 40 % vs. NAND-based decode; supports hot-swap-safe enable sequencing via E3 control. |
Use Scenario: Routing sensor input signals to eight isolated analog front-ends in an industrial automation controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Demultiplexer using E1 as data input and A0–A2 as channel address - provides deterministic 1:8 signal distribution. Use Value: Enables single ADC to sequentially sample eight channels with precise timing alignment; clamp diodes protect against field-induced transients. |
| LED Matrix Row Selection | Legacy Bus Interface Logic |
Use Scenario: Driving rows of an 8×8 LED matrix in multiplexed display systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Active-LOW output decoder directly sinking current from common-anode row lines; GND pin handles up to 32 mA total sink current. Use Value: Delivers consistent 4 mA per output at 5 V - sufficient for standard LEDs without external drivers; SO16 package fits high-density display PCBs. |
Use Scenario: Translating 3-bit control bus signals into discrete enable lines for legacy peripherals (e.g., UARTs, timers) on an FPGA carrier board. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Glue logic device converting parallel address bits into dedicated peripheral selects with sub-20 ns latency. Use Value: Provides level-shifted, noise-immune selection signals compatible with both 3.3 V FPGA I/O and 5 V peripheral VCC; -40 °C to +125 °C rating ensures reliability in enclosed enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-to-8 decoder applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 74HCT138DB,118 | TTL-compatible inputs (VIH = 2.0 V min. @ VCC = 4.5 V); identical pinout and function | Required when driving from 5 V TTL or older microcontrollers with weak HIGH drive | Select when interfacing legacy 5 V logic families; not suitable for pure 3.3 V CMOS-only systems due to VIH mismatch |
| SN74LS138N | Bipolar TTL technology; VCC = 4.75–5.25 V only; higher ICC (19 mA typ.); slower (tPD = 22 ns min.) | Used in legacy 5 V systems where HC/HCT power savings are not critical | Choose only for drop-in replacement in existing LS-based designs; avoid in new designs due to power and voltage limitations |
Compared with 74HC138DB,118, the 74HCT138DB,118 offers broader input compatibility at 5 V but sacrifices noise margin in mixed-voltage domains, while the SN74LS138N imposes rigid 5 V operation and doubles static power - making the HC variant optimal for modern low-power, wide-VCC embedded decoding.
Availability
74HC138DB,118 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control logic, memory address decoding, and LED matrix row selection requiring stable component supply across automotive-grade temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for 74HC138DB,118 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Nexperia is a leading semiconductor manufacturer specializing in high-performance, energy-efficient logic, analog, and discrete components for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications.
The 74HC138DB,118 belongs to Nexperia's 74HC logic family - engineered for low-power, wide-supply-voltage operation in space-constrained embedded systems where reliability across extended temperature ranges is mandatory.
FAQ
What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 74HC138DB,118 in demultiplexer mode?
The 74HC138DB,118 is a purely combinational device with no internal clock; its usable switching rate depends on propagation delay and load capacitance. At VCC = 4.5 V and CL = 50 pF, tPD = 15 ns (typ.), supporting reliable operation up to ~33 MHz toggle rate on address or enable inputs - verified by dynamic characteristics in Table 7 of the official datasheet.
Can the 74HC138DB,118 drive LEDs directly?
Yes - each output can sink up to 4.0 mA continuously at VCC = 4.5 V while maintaining VOL ≤ 0.26 V, sufficient for low-current indicator LEDs. For higher-brightness or multi-LED loads, external transistor drivers are recommended. Total GND pin current must remain below 32 mA to stay within absolute maximum ratings.
Is the 74HC138DB,118 pin-compatible with the 74HCT138DB,118?
Yes - both share identical SO16 (SOT109-1) pinout, terminal numbering, and functional block diagram. The sole difference is input threshold levels: 74HC138DB,118 requires CMOS-level inputs (VIH ≥ 3.15 V @ 4.5 V), while 74HCT138DB,118 accepts TTL-level inputs (VIH ≥ 2.0 V). Swapping requires verifying source driver compatibility.
Does the 74HC138DB,118 support 3.3 V-only operation?
Yes - it is fully specified down to VCC = 2.0 V. At 3.3 V, VIH = 2.31 V (min.), VOL = 0.26 V (max. @ 4 mA), and tPD = 20 ns (typ.), making it suitable for 3.3 V systems. Ensure input sources meet the 2.31 V VIH requirement; 3.3 V LVTTL or buffered MCU GPIOs are appropriate drivers.
74HC138DB,118 Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Nexperia USA Inc.
- Series:
- 74HC
- Package/Case:
- 16-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Decoder/Demultiplexer
- Circuit:
- 1 x 3:8
- Independent Circuits:
- 1
- Current - Output High, Low:
- 5.2mA, 5.2mA
- Voltage Supply Source:
- Single Supply
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2V ~ 6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-SSOP
74HC138DB,118 FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 74HC138DB,118 through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 74HC138DB,118 on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 74HC138DB,118 reliable?
The price and inventory of 74HC138DB,118 are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 74HC138DB,118 is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 74HC138DB,118?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 74HC138DB,118 transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 74HC138DB,118?
74HC138DB,118 orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 74HC138DB,118 order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 74HC138DB,118?
For technical support, including 74HC138DB,118 datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 74HC138DB,118 requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 74HC138DB,118 is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 74HC138DB,118 products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 74HC138DB,118 meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 74HC138DB,118?
All 74HC138DB,118 units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 74HC138DB,118, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 74HC138DB,118 part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 74HC138DB,118:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
74HC138DB,118 Tags
-
SN74HC138DR
Texas Instruments
-
TC7SB3157CFU,LF(CT
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage
-
74CBTLV3257PW,118
Nexperia USA Inc.
-
SN74CBTLV3257PWR
Texas Instruments
-
74CBTLV3257GUX
Nexperia USA Inc.
-
74HC154BQ,118
Nexperia USA Inc.
-
P3S0200GMX
NXP USA Inc.
-
SN74CB3Q3245PWR
Texas Instruments
-
SN74CB3Q3257RGYR
Texas Instruments
-
TCA9543APWR
Texas Instruments
-
TCA9546APWR
Texas Instruments
-
SN74HC138N
Texas Instruments
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