Nexperia USA Inc. 74HC4040BQX

Overview

74HC4040BQX from Nexperia is a 12-stage asynchronous binary ripple counter IC with CMOS logic, clock input (CP) triggering on HIGH-to-LOW edge, active-HIGH master reset (MR), and twelve buffered Q0–Q11 outputs. It operates from 2.0 V to 6.0 V, supports -40 °C to +125 °C, and delivers 98 MHz max clock frequency at VCC = 6.0 V. Used in frequency division and timing control circuits for industrial instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the 74HC4040BQX datasheet, 74HC4040BQX pinout, 74HC4040BQX application, or 74HC4040BQX equivalent, key selection criteria include its asynchronous ripple architecture, TTL-compatible input option (74HCT variant), DHVQFN16 thermal-enhanced package, and guaranteed operation across extended temperature range without external pull-ups or level shifters.

Technical Context

This device implements a cascaded chain of twelve static toggle flip-flops, where each stage divides the preceding stage's output by two - resulting in a 4096:1 total division ratio. The counter advances only on the falling edge of CP; MR forces all outputs LOW asynchronously, overriding clock activity.

Input clamp diodes enable direct interfacing to voltages exceeding VCC when used with current-limiting resistors. Propagation delay from CP to Q0 is 14 ns (typ.) at VCC = 6.0 V, while inter-stage delay (Qn to Qn+1) is 8 ns (typ.), defining cumulative timing skew across the 12-bit chain.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DHVQFN16 (SOT763-1) package: 2.5 × 3.5 × 0.85 mm body, no leads, thermally enhanced exposed pad (non-soldered by default), 16 terminals, pin 1 index marked.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit asynchronous counter applications.

Compared with 74HC4040BQX, the 74HC4020PW extends division depth but shifts output pin assignments, while the SN74LV4040APWR trades thermal robustness for lower static power - making the BQX optimal for high-reliability, wide-temperature embedded timing.

Availability

74HC4040BQX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for frequency division, time delay generation, control sequencing, and LED multiplexing requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for 74HC4040BQX 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 discrete components with focus on efficiency, reliability, and sustainability.

The 74HC4040 belongs to Nexperia's industry-standard logic portfolio, designed specifically for robust, low-power digital timing and control functions in industrial, consumer, and communication equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the 74HC4040BQX?

The 74HC4040BQX supports up to 98 MHz at VCC = 6.0 V and CL = 50 pF, per Nexperia's Rev. 8 datasheet. At 4.5 V, maximum frequency drops to 72 MHz. Performance degrades linearly below 4.5 V due to increased propagation delay - e.g., only 24 MHz at 2.0 V. These values assume proper PCB layout with controlled impedance and local decoupling.

Can the 74HC4040BQX be used with a 3.3 V supply?

Yes - the 74HC4040BQX is fully specified from 2.0 V to 6.0 V, including 3.3 V operation. At 3.3 V, VIH is 2.31 V (min), VIL is 1.09 V (max), and typical CP→Q0 propagation delay is ~22 ns. Output drive strength remains sufficient to sink/source ±4 mA, ensuring compatibility with standard 3.3 V CMOS loads without level shifting.

Is the exposed thermal pad on the DHVQFN16 package required to be soldered?

No - the exposed pad (terminal 1 index area) has no electrical function and requires no solder connection. Nexperia specifies it may remain floating or be connected to GND if desired, but soldering is optional. If soldered, the land must be isolated from other nets unless tied to GND; thermal performance improvement is marginal (<10% RθJA reduction) versus unsoldered pad in typical 2-layer boards.

How does the 74HC4040BQX differ from the 74HCT4040BQX variant?

The 74HC4040BQX uses CMOS input thresholds (VIH ≈ 70% VCC), while the 74HCT4040BQX uses TTL-compatible thresholds (VIH = 2.0 V min at VCC = 4.5–5.5 V). This allows direct interfacing with legacy 5 V TTL outputs without pull-ups. Both share identical pinout, timing, and packaging - only input voltage levels and static current specs differ, with HCT consuming slightly more ICC at high frequencies.