Renesas 74HC237FP-E

Overview

74HC237FP-E from Renesas is a 3-to-8-line decoder/demultiplexer with integrated transparent address latch, operating across 2–6 V supply, delivering 19 ns typical propagation delay (CL = 50 pF), fanout of 10 LSTTL loads, and active-high decoded outputs. It serves as a latched address decoder in memory-mapped I/O expansion and peripheral selection circuits.

For engineers reviewing the 74HC237FP-E datasheet, 74HC237FP-E pinout, 74HC237FP-E application, or 74HC237FP-E equivalent, key selection criteria include dual chip-select logic (G1 active-high, G2 active-low), latch-enabled address storage, and SOP-16 JEITA-compliant packaging for space-constrained digital control boards.

Technical Context

The 74HC237FP-E implements combinational decoding with synchronous latch control: address inputs A/B/C are latched on GL (Latch Enable) high, enabling stable output selection independent of subsequent address changes. Its two chip-select inputs (G1, G2) support hierarchical demultiplexing - G1 used as data input while G2 remains asserted, or vice versa.

Logic operation follows strict enable priority: all outputs go low when either G1 is low or G2 is high; only when G1 = H and G2 = L does the device respond to latched address and GL state. Output drive capability supports ±25 mA per pin under absolute ratings, with quiescent ICC ≤ 4 µA at VCC = 6 V and Ta = 25°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOP-16 package (JEITA PRSP0016DH-B, FP-16DAV footprint), 1.27 mm pitch, 5.5 × 10.06 mm body, Ni/Pd/Au-plated gull-wing leads.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74HC237N and TC74HC237F, the 74HC237FP-E offers JEITA-standard SOP-16 packaging optimized for automated assembly, tighter propagation delay consistency (19 ns typ), and lower thermal resistance - making it preferred for volume production of compact industrial controllers.

Availability

74HC237FP-E is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control panels, test equipment interfaces, and embedded data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for 74HC237FP-E 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

Renesas Electronics Corporation is a global semiconductor leader specializing in microcontrollers, analog, and power solutions for automotive, industrial, and IoT applications.

The HD74HC237 product line delivers high-speed, low-power CMOS logic for address decoding and signal routing in resource-constrained embedded systems - designed specifically for reliability in extended-temperature industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the function of the GL pin on the 74HC237FP-E?

The GL (Gate Latch) pin on the 74HC237FP-E controls the transparent latch behavior: when GL is high, the A/B/C address inputs pass through to the internal latch; when GL goes low, the current address is held and used for output decoding. This allows asynchronous address capture followed by synchronous output selection - essential for eliminating bus glitches during peripheral enable transitions in the 74HC237FP-E.

Can the 74HC237FP-E operate at 3.3 V supply voltage?

Yes, the 74HC237FP-E operates across 2.0–6.0 V, fully supporting 3.3 V nominal supply. At VCC = 3.3 V, VIH is guaranteed ≥ 2.1 V and VIL ≤ 1.2 V, providing robust noise margins versus standard 3.3 V CMOS logic levels. All timing parameters including 19 ns tPD remain valid per datasheet specifications, confirming reliable operation in mixed-voltage 74HC237FP-E designs.

How does the 74HC237FP-E differ from the 74HC137?

The 74HC237FP-E is the noninverting version of the 74HC137: both share identical pinout and latch functionality, but the 74HC237FP-E produces active-high outputs (Y0–Y7 = H for selected channel), whereas the 74HC137 delivers active-low outputs. This makes the 74HC237FP-E directly compatible with peripherals requiring high-enable signals - such as many SRAM chips and analog switches - without external inverters.

What is the maximum output current rating per pin on the 74HC237FP-E?

The 74HC237FP-E supports ±25 mA DC output current per pin under absolute maximum ratings, with recommended operating conditions specifying ±4 mA for sustained TTL fanout compliance. For continuous operation, Renesas recommends limiting steady-state current to ≤ ±4 mA per output to maintain VOH ≥ 4.18 V and VOL ≤ 0.26 V at VCC = 4.5 V - ensuring stable logic levels across temperature in the 74HC237FP-E.

Is the 74HC237FP-E RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, the 74HC237FP-E is RoHS compliant and lead-free, manufactured per Renesas' green policy with Ni/Pd/Au-plated gull-wing leads and halogen-free molding compound. The JEITA package code PRSP0016DH-B and FP-16DAV designation confirm compliance with JEDEC J-STD-609A Class 1 marking requirements, verified in the official Renesas HD74HC237 datasheet Rev.2.00 - making the 74HC237FP-E suitable for export and CE-marked industrial equipment.