Nexperia USA Inc. 74HC138PW,118

Overview

74HC138PW,118 from Nexperia is a 3-to-8 line inverting decoder/demultiplexer with CMOS logic, operating from 2.0 V to 6.0 V supply, featuring three active-LOW enable inputs (E1, E2), one active-HIGH enable input (E3), and eight mutually exclusive active-LOW outputs (Y0–Y7). It decodes binary address inputs A0–A2 for memory chip select decoding in microcontroller-based embedded systems.

For engineers reviewing the 74HC138PW,118 datasheet, 74HC138PW,118 pinout, 74HC138PW,118 application, or 74HC138PW,118 equivalent, this device is selected for low-power address decoding, TTL/CMOS interface compatibility, propagation delay ≤30 ns at 4.5 V, and operation across -40 °C to +125 °C industrial temperature range.

Technical Context

The 74HC138PW,118 implements combinational logic decoding using standard CMOS gate architecture, where all outputs are HIGH except when E1=E2=LOW and E3=HIGH - enabling only one of Y0–Y7 based on A0–A2. Its enable hierarchy supports cascading for 1-of-32 expansion using four ICs and one inverter.

Input clamping diodes allow safe interfacing to voltages exceeding VCC when used with current-limiting resistors. Output drive capability is ±4.0 mA at VCC = 4.5 V, with VOL ≤ 0.26 V and VOH ≥ 3.98 V under load, ensuring robust noise immunity and rail-to-rail compatibility in mixed-voltage systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP16 plastic thin shrink small outline package (SOT403-1), 16-pin, body width 4.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch, exposed pad optional - optimized for high-density PCB layouts and automated reflow assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-to-8 decoder applications.

Compared with 74HCT138PW,118, the 74HC138PW,118 offers lower static power and wider supply flexibility but requires CMOS-level inputs; versus SN74LS138N, it delivers 10× lower quiescent current and extended temperature operation at the cost of reduced output drive strength.

Availability

74HC138PW,118 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for memory address decoding, microcontroller peripheral selection, LED display control, and industrial I/O multiplexing requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and communications equipment lifecycles.

Supply support for 74HC138PW,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 global semiconductor expert delivering high-performance, reliable, and efficient logic, analog, and discrete components for automotive, industrial, computing, and consumer applications.

The 74HC138 belongs to Nexperia's HC logic family, designed for low-power, high-noise-immunity digital interfacing in space-constrained and thermally demanding environments.

FAQ

Can 74HC138PW,118 operate at 3.3 V supply?

Yes. The 74HC138PW,118 is fully specified from 2.0 V to 6.0 V, including 3.3 V operation. At VCC = 3.3 V, VIH = 2.31 V min and VIL = 1.09 V max ensure compatibility with 3.3 V microcontrollers, and propagation delay remains ≤45 ns over temperature.

Is the TSSOP16 package RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes. The 74HC138PW,118 in SOT403-1 (TSSOP16) package is RoHS-compliant and lead-free per EU Directive 2011/65/EU, with matte tin termination and halogen-free molding compound, verified in Nexperia's product compliance documentation.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported for address changes?

The device has no internal clock; it is combinational. Maximum input transition rate is specified as 83 ns/V at VCC = 6.0 V, supporting address changes up to ~12 MHz with clean edges. For reliable operation, maintain input rise/fall times <10 ns and avoid simultaneous switching of more than three inputs.

Does 74HC138PW,118 support 3-state outputs?

No. The 74HC138PW,118 has push-pull CMOS outputs with fixed active-LOW assertion - it does not feature output enable (OE) or high-impedance states. For bus-sharing applications, use 74HC238 (3-to-8 decoder with 3-state outputs) instead.