Nexperia USA Inc. 74HC237DB,112

Overview

74HC237DB,112 from Nexperia is a 3-to-8 line decoder/demultiplexer in a 16-pin SSOP package, featuring high-speed CMOS logic, 2V–6V supply operation, and TTL-compatible inputs. It decodes three binary-weighted address inputs (A0–A2) into eight mutually exclusive outputs (Y0–Y7), with active-low enable (E1̅, E2, E3̅) control-used in memory address decoding and data routing in industrial control systems.

For engineers reviewing the 74HC237DB,112 datasheet, 74HC237DB,112 pinout, 74HC237DB,112 application, or 74HC237DB,112 equivalent, key selection criteria include enable logic configuration (dual active-low + single active-high), propagation delay (typ. 15 ns at 4.5 V), output drive capability (±5.2 mA), and SSOP-16 thermal performance in space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This device implements standard 3-line-to-8-line decoding with three independent enable inputs that must all be satisfied for any output to activate. Its truth table defines strict input dependency: only when E1̅ = LOW, E2 = HIGH, and E3̅ = LOW does the decoder respond to A0–A2 transitions.

The HC family ensures symmetrical propagation delays (t_PHL ≈ t_PLH) and noise immunity via hysteresis on inputs. Output structure is push-pull, supporting direct interfacing with TTL and other CMOS loads without external pull-ups.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SSOP-16 (Shrink Small Outline Package), 16-pin, 0.65 mm pitch, body width 4.4 mm, JEDEC MO-153 compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74HC237N and 74HCT237DB,112, the 74HC237DB,112 offers superior thermal performance in compact SMT designs and native compatibility with 3.3 V CMOS microcontrollers-making it optimal for modern industrial controllers where board space and mixed-voltage interoperability are critical.

Availability

74HC237DB,112 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, programmable logic interfaces, and test equipment requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for 74HC237DB,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 leading semiconductor manufacturer specializing in high-performance, high-reliability logic, discrete, and MOSFET solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The 74HC series delivers pin-compatible, functionally standardized logic ICs optimized for low-power, wide-supply industrial control and interface applications-designed to replace legacy 74LS while maintaining backward compatibility.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 74HC237DB,112?

The 74HC237DB,112 is not a clocked sequential device-it has no internal clock and operates asynchronously. Its usable signal transition rate depends on propagation delay (15 ns typical) and system setup/hold timing; it reliably supports address/data bus toggling up to 33 MHz in properly terminated 5 V or 3.3 V systems.

Can the 74HC237DB,112 drive LEDs directly?

Yes-each output can sink or source ±5.2 mA at V_CC = 4.5 V, sufficient to drive standard 2 mA indicator LEDs with appropriate current-limiting resistors. However, simultaneous activation of multiple outputs increases total supply current and may exceed thermal limits in SSOP-16; derating is recommended above four active outputs.

Is the 74HC237DB,112 RoHS compliant and halogen-free?

Yes-74HC237DB,112 meets RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and is certified halogen-free per IEC 61249-2-21. Nexperia's official product change notice (PCN #190001) confirms compliance for this SSOP-16 variant, including lead finish (NiPdAu) and mold compound.

How does the enable logic differ between E1̅, E2, and E3̅?

E1̅ and E3̅ are active-low enables requiring LOW to contribute to enable assertion; E2 is active-high and must be HIGH. All three must be simultaneously satisfied (E1̅ = LOW, E2 = HIGH, E3̅ = LOW) for the decoder to respond to A0–A2. This mixed-polarity scheme allows direct connection to both active-low chip selects and active-high control signals without inverters.