Nexperia USA Inc. 74HC590PW,118

Overview

74HC590PW,118 from Nexperia is an 8-bit binary counter with integrated storage register and 3-state outputs, used for synchronized data latching and ripple-cascaded counting in digital timing and control systems. It features independent counter (CPC) and register (CPR) clocks, master reset (MRC), count enable (CE), output enable (OE), and ripple carry output (RCO). Operates from 2.0 V to 6.0 V across -40 °C to +125 °C.

For engineers reviewing the 74HC590PW,118 datasheet, 74HC590PW,118 pinout, 74HC590PW,118 application, or 74HC590PW,118 equivalent, key selection considerations include independent clock domains for counter/register staging, RCO-based cascading for multi-stage counters, 3-state bus interface capability, and industrial-temperature operation with CMOS-level noise immunity.

Technical Context

The 74HC590 implements a synchronous 8-bit binary counter feeding into a transparent storage register, both clocked on positive edges but via separate inputs (CPC and CPR). This architecture enables precise staging: when clocks are tied, the register holds the prior count while the counter advances - critical for glitch-free readout in real-time monitoring.

Its RCO output is active-low and generated as Q0′·Q1′·Q2′·Q3′·Q4′·Q5′·Q6′·Q7′, enabling direct cascade connection to CE of the next stage. The 3-state outputs (Q0–Q7) are controlled by OE (active-low), supporting shared-bus applications without external bus transceivers.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP16 plastic thin shrink small outline package (SOT403-1), 16-pin, 4.4 mm body width, 0.65 mm pitch - optimized for high-density PCB layouts with improved thermal dissipation over SO16.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit binary counter with output register applications.

Compared with SN74HC590N and 74HCT590PW, the 74HC590PW,118 offers superior thermal performance in TSSOP16, guaranteed 61 MHz operation at 6 V, and optimal noise immunity for mixed-signal industrial PCBs - making it the preferred choice for volume production in space-constrained, high-reliability designs.

Availability

74HC590PW,118 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial counter modules, programmable logic interfaces, test equipment timing control, and legacy system bus expansion requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for 74HC590PW,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 logic, discrete, and MOSFET solutions with emphasis on efficiency, miniaturization, and robustness for industrial and automotive markets.

The 74HC590 belongs to Nexperia's HC logic family - designed specifically for low-power, high-noise-immunity digital control in industrial automation, instrumentation, and embedded timing applications where precision staging and bus compatibility are essential.

FAQ

What is the purpose of having separate CPC and CPR clock inputs?

The separate counter clock (CPC) and register clock (CPR) inputs enable deterministic staging: CPC advances the counter asynchronously to the register, while CPR captures a stable snapshot of the current count. This prevents read-after-write hazards and allows continuous counting during register readout - essential for real-time monitoring in motion control and data acquisition systems.

Can 74HC590PW,118 be cascaded to form a 16-bit counter? How?

Yes - connect RCO (pin 9) of the first 74HC590PW to CE (pin 12) of the second device. When the first counter reaches 255 (11111111), RCO goes LOW, enabling the second counter's CPC input. Each subsequent count increments the higher byte. This configuration achieves seamless 16-bit counting with no external logic or timing constraints.

Does the 74HC590PW,118 support 3.3 V operation?

Yes - it operates reliably from 2.0 V to 6.0 V, including standard 3.3 V supply rails. At VCC = 3.3 V, typical propagation delay is ≤35 ns and VIH/VIL thresholds scale proportionally (VIH ≈ 2.3 V, VIL ≈ 1.0 V), ensuring full compatibility with 3.3 V microcontrollers and FPGAs without level translation.

Is there a risk of bus contention when using the 3-state outputs?

No - bus contention is prevented by design: all Q0–Q7 outputs enter high-impedance state when OE (pin 14) is HIGH. Proper sequencing requires OE to be asserted (LOW) only when no other device drives the same bus lines, and deasserted before any competing driver activates. Internal clamp diodes further protect against transient overvoltage during state transitions.