NXP Semiconductors 74HC163DB,112

Overview

74HC163DB,112 from Nexperia is a synchronous 4-bit binary counter with parallel load, synchronous reset, and look-ahead carry-designed for precise digital timing and state sequencing in logic systems. It operates at up to 55 MHz (VCC = 4.5 V), supports CMOS-level inputs, features 16-pin SSOP packaging, and enables modular counter design via cascading using CEP/CET/TC signals.

For engineers reviewing the 74HC163DB,112 datasheet, 74HC163DB,112 pinout, 74HC163DB,112 application, or 74HC163DB,112 equivalent, key selection criteria include synchronous reset behavior, terminal count pulse width (~Q0 HIGH duration), CP-to-TC propagation delay (25–49 ns), input setup/hold timing margins, and compatibility with 2.0–6.0 V supply rails in industrial temperature ranges.

Technical Context

This device implements four edge-triggered D-type flip-flops with synchronous control logic for counting, presetting, and resetting-all synchronized to the rising edge of CP. Its dual count-enable inputs (CEP and CET) gate counting and feed forward to TC, enabling clean multi-stage ripple-free cascading without external gating logic.

The synchronous master reset (MR) clears Q0–Q3 on the next CP edge regardless of PE, CEP, or CET states, while parallel enable (PE) loads D0–D3 asynchronously to clock edge but synchronously to CP. The internal look-ahead carry eliminates ripple delay between stages, supporting high-speed modulo-N counter synthesis with minimal external gates.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

74HC163DB,112 is housed in a plastic shrink small outline package (SSOP16, SOT338-1) with 16 leads, 0.65 mm lead pitch, and 5.3 mm body width-optimized for high-density PCB layouts while maintaining thermal and mechanical robustness.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 4-bit synchronous counter applications.

Compared with 74HC163PW,118 and 74HCT163DB,112, the 74HC163DB,112 offers optimal thermal performance in SSOP packaging and native CMOS input thresholds-making it preferred for new 3.3/5 V mixed-signal designs where signal integrity and layout flexibility are prioritized over absolute minimum footprint.

Availability

74HC163DB,112 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for digital timing generators, state machine controllers, modulo-N counter design, and cascaded counter chain applications requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and test equipment programs.

Supply support for 74HC163DB,112 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 logic, analog, and MOSFET solutions with focus on reliability, efficiency, and manufacturability for industrial and automotive markets.

The 74HC163 series belongs to Nexperia's standard logic portfolio-engineered for robust digital control functions in harsh environments, emphasizing timing precision, noise immunity, and long-term parametric stability.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the 74HC163DB,112?

The 74HC163DB,112 achieves a maximum clock frequency of 55 MHz at VCC = 4.5 V and Tamb = 25 °C, dropping to 21 MHz at +125 °C per datasheet Table 7. This is determined by CP-to-Qn propagation delay (17–56 ns) and input setup/hold timing constraints-not by power dissipation alone.

How does the synchronous reset differ from asynchronous reset in this device?

The MR input performs a synchronous reset: Q0–Q3 transition to LOW only on the next rising edge of CP, regardless of MR assertion timing. This prevents metastability and output glitches common with asynchronous resets, ensuring deterministic behavior in pipelined or multi-clock-domain systems.

Can the 74HC163DB,112 be used in a 3.3 V system?

Yes-the 74HC163DB,112 is fully specified down to VCC = 2.0 V and supports 3.3 V operation with guaranteed VIH = 2.31 V (70% of 3.3 V) and VOL ≤ 0.26 V at IO = 4 mA. Input thresholds scale with VCC, preserving noise margin in mixed-voltage designs.

What is the purpose of the CEP and CET pins, and how do they interact?

CEP (count enable parallel) and CET (count enable carry) must both be HIGH for counting to occur. CET additionally enables the TC output and feeds forward to the CEP of the next cascaded stage. This dual-enable architecture allows hierarchical control-e.g., disabling entire counter banks while preserving individual stage readiness.