NXP Semiconductors 74LVC138APW/AUJ
- Part No.:
- 74LVC138APW/AUJ
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Category:
- Signal Switches, Multiplexers, Decoders
- Package:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
74LVC138APW/AUJ.pdf
- Description:
- IC DECODER/DEMUX 1X3:8 16TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,101
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
74LVC138APW/AUJ from Nexperia is a 3-to-8 line inverting decoder/demultiplexer with three active-Low enable inputs (E1, E2) and one active-High enable input (E3), operating across 1.2 V to 3.6 V supply, delivering propagation delays as low as 1.0 ns at 3.3 V, and supporting mixed-voltage interfacing between 3.3 V and 5 V systems. It is used for memory chip select decoding and address expansion in embedded microcontroller peripherals.
For engineers reviewing the 74LVC138APW/AUJ datasheet, 74LVC138APW/AUJ pinout, 74LVC138APW/AUJ application, or 74LVC138APW/AUJ equivalent, key selection criteria include its wide VCC range (1.2–3.6 V), Schmitt-trigger inputs for noise immunity, -40 °C to +125 °C temperature rating, TSSOP16 package compatibility, and demultiplexing capability via enable-input-as-data routing.
Technical Context
The 74LVC138APW/AUJ implements a standard 3-bit binary-to-8-line decode function with mutually exclusive outputs, where only one of Y0–Y7 goes LOW per valid address/enable combination. Its triple-enable architecture (E1, E2 active LOW; E3 active HIGH) enables cascading up to 1-of-32 decoding using four ICs and one inverter.
Inputs feature Schmitt-trigger action for tolerance to slow rise/fall times, and overvoltage tolerance up to 5.5 V allows direct interfacing with 5 V logic while powered from 3.3 V or lower. Output drive supports 50 Ω transmission lines at 125 °C, and static characteristics are specified across both -40 °C to +85 °C and -40 °C to +125 °C ranges.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.2 V to 3.6 V - Enables operation in ultra-low-power and mixed-voltage systems including battery-powered IoT nodes. |
| Propagation Delay (tpd) | 1.0 ns (min) to 7.5 ns (max) at VCC = 3.0–3.6 V - Supports high-speed address decoding in real-time control subsystems. |
| Input Voltage Tolerance | Up to 5.5 V - Allows direct connection to legacy 5 V logic without level shifters in hybrid voltage designs. |
| Operating Temperature | -40 °C to +125 °C - Qualified for industrial and under-hood automotive auxiliary applications. |
| Output Drive Strength | ±24 mA at VCC = 3.0 V - Sufficient to drive multiple LVC/LVT inputs or terminate 50 Ω lines at elevated temperature. |
| Input Hysteresis | Schmitt-trigger action - Reduces susceptibility to noise on address or enable lines in electrically noisy environments. |
| ESD Protection | HBM > 2000 V, CDM > 1000 V - Enhances robustness during board assembly and field handling. |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP16 package (SOT403-1): plastic thin shrink small outline, 16 leads, body width 4.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch, lead-free and RoHS compliant.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | A0 | LSB address input - Accepts TTL- or CMOS-level signals; Schmitt-triggered for noise margin. |
| 2 | VCC | Positive supply - Must be decoupled locally; supports 1.2–3.6 V operation with full parameter guarantee. |
| 3 | A1 | Middle address input - Binary-weighted with A0 and A2 to select one of eight output lines. |
| 4 | Y0 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; asserts when A2A1A0 = 000 and all enables satisfied. |
| 5 | A2 | MSB address input - Completes 3-bit address decoding; synchronized with E1/E2/E3 enable logic. |
| 6 | Y1 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; asserts when A2A1A0 = 001 and enables active. |
| 7 | E1 | Enable input (active LOW) - Primary chip-select signal; must be LOW with E2 LOW and E3 HIGH for decode operation. |
| 8 | Y2 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; used in memory bank selection or peripheral enable routing. |
| 9 | E2 | Enable input (active LOW) - Second chip-select; enables parallel expansion when tied to upstream decoder outputs. |
| 10 | Y3 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; supports 1-of-8 demultiplexing when E1/E2 serve as strobes. |
| 11 | E3 | Enable input (active HIGH) - Cascading control signal; HIGH enables decoding; LOW forces all outputs HIGH. |
| 12 | Y4 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; provides dedicated select line for I/O expanders or sensor arrays. |
| 13 | Y7 | Inverted decoded output - MSB output; asserted for A2A1A0 = 111; used in highest-address memory regions. |
| 14 | Y5 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; supports modular peripheral addressing in multi-controller systems. |
| 15 | GND | Ground reference - Return path for all internal logic and output currents; requires low-impedance PCB plane. |
| 16 | Y6 | Inverted decoded output - Active LOW; completes full 3-to-8 decode set; used in FPGA configuration or boot ROM selection. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Triple Enable Architecture | Independent control via E1 (LOW), E2 (LOW), and E3 (HIGH) enables hierarchical decoding and seamless 1-of-32 expansion with minimal external logic. |
| Mutually Exclusive Outputs | Only one Y0–Y7 is LOW at any time under valid enable/address conditions - eliminates bus contention in memory-mapped I/O systems. |
| Overvoltage-Tolerant Inputs | Accepts up to 5.5 V regardless of VCC setting - eliminates need for external level translators in mixed 3.3 V/5 V designs. |
| Schmitt-Trigger Inputs | Input hysteresis improves noise immunity on slow-rising control signals such as reset or power-good lines. |
| Industrial Temperature Range | Full functionality guaranteed from -40 °C to +125 °C - suitable for motor drives, PLC modules, and industrial gateways. |
| Low Dynamic Power | CPD = 21.1 pF at 3.3 V - minimizes switching current in high-frequency address decoding applications. |
Applications
| Memory Chip Select Decoding | Microcontroller Peripheral Expansion |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Selecting one of eight SRAM, Flash, or EEPROM chips in a microcontroller-based data logger. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Address decoder translating 3-bit address bus into individual chip-enable signals with sub-8 ns propagation delay. Use Value: Eliminates discrete logic or FPGA resources; ensures deterministic timing for memory access cycles at up to 100 MHz system clock. |
Use Scenario: Enabling up to eight UARTs, SPI peripherals, or GPIO expanders on an ARM Cortex-M4-based industrial controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Demultiplexer routing a shared enable signal to selected peripheral based on configuration register bits. Use Value: Reduces firmware complexity by offloading address decoding; supports hot-plug detection via E3-controlled gating. |
| FPGA Configuration Interface | Automotive Body Control Module |
Use Scenario: Selecting one of eight configuration PROMs or flash banks during FPGA startup or partial reconfiguration. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Inverting decoder asserting active-LOW CS# for Xilinx or Intel FPGA configuration devices. Use Value: Ensures glitch-free PROM selection during power-up sequencing; Schmitt inputs suppress supply rail noise during POR. |
Use Scenario: Controlling window lift motors, mirror actuators, and door lock solenoids in a centralized BCM using discrete drivers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Enable distributor routing MCU GPIO outputs to specific driver ICs based on CAN message payload. Use Value: Provides fail-safe isolation between MCU and high-current loads; 125 °C rating supports under-dash mounting. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-to-8 decoder/demultiplexer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| 74LVC138AD | SO16 package (SOT109-1); 3.9 mm body width; higher thermal resistance than TSSOP16. | Better suited for through-hole prototyping or legacy PCBs with SOIC footprints. | Select 74LVC138AD when board space permits larger footprint and hand-soldering is required. |
| SN74LVC138AQPWRQ1 | Automotive-grade (AEC-Q100 Grade 2); same pinout but qualified for -40 °C to +105 °C with enhanced reliability testing. | Required for safety-critical body electronics where automotive qualification is mandated. | Choose SN74LVC138AQPWRQ1 only if AEC-Q100 compliance is contractually required. |
Compared with 74LVC138APW/AUJ, the 74LVC138AD offers mechanical compatibility with legacy SOIC layouts but sacrifices thermal performance, while the SN74LVC138AQPWRQ1 adds automotive qualification overhead without functional improvement - making 74LVC138APW/AUJ optimal for cost-sensitive industrial designs requiring compact TSSOP16 packaging and extended temperature support.
Availability
74LVC138APW/AUJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for memory decoding, microcontroller peripheral selection, FPGA configuration interfaces, and automotive body control modules requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.
Supply support for 74LVC138APW/AUJ 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 focused on essential efficiency technologies, delivering high-performance logic, analog, and MOSFET solutions for industrial, computing, and consumer markets.
The 74LVC138A family is designed for low-voltage, high-speed address decoding and demultiplexing in space-constrained embedded systems, emphasizing voltage flexibility, noise immunity, and thermal robustness.
FAQ
What is the maximum supply voltage for the 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
The absolute maximum supply voltage (VCC) for the 74LVC138APW/AUJ is +6.5 V, but the recommended operating range is strictly 1.2 V to 3.6 V. Operation above 3.6 V voids parametric guarantees and risks permanent damage per IEC 60134 limiting values. The 74LVC138APW/AUJ maintains full functionality-including propagation delay, output drive, and input thresholds-only within the 1.2–3.6 V band.
Does the 74LVC138APW/AUJ support 5 V logic inputs?
Yes, the 74LVC138APW/AUJ accepts input voltages up to 5.5 V regardless of VCC level, enabling direct interface with 5 V TTL or CMOS outputs while powered from 1.8 V or 3.3 V supplies. This overvoltage tolerance is implemented at the input stage and does not require external clamping diodes. The 74LVC138APW/AUJ retains full Schmitt-trigger hysteresis and noise immunity even under 5 V input conditions.
How does the enable logic work on the 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
The 74LVC138APW/AUJ requires E1 = LOW, E2 = LOW, and E3 = HIGH simultaneously for normal decoding; all outputs remain HIGH otherwise. This triple-enable structure allows hierarchical expansion: E1 and E2 can be driven by higher-order address bits or upstream decoder outputs, while E3 serves as a master enable. As a demultiplexer, one active-LOW enable (e.g., E1) functions as the data input, with A0–A2 and the other enables acting as address/strobe controls.
What is the output behavior of the 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
All eight outputs (Y0–Y7) of the 74LVC138APW/AUJ are active LOW and mutually exclusive: exactly one output goes LOW for each valid combination of A0–A2 and enabled E1/E2/E3, while the remaining seven stay HIGH. When disabled (any enable condition unmet), all outputs float HIGH. The 74LVC138APW/AUJ does not provide open-drain or push-pull selection - outputs are standard CMOS with symmetrical drive strength (±24 mA at 3.0 V).
Is the 74LVC138APW/AUJ suitable for automotive applications?
The 74LVC138APW/AUJ is rated for -40 °C to +125 °C and meets JEDEC standards, but it is not AEC-Q100 qualified. It may be used in non-safety-critical automotive subsystems (e.g., infotainment power management or ambient lighting control) where qualification is not mandated. For body control modules or gateway ECUs requiring automotive certification, the pin-compatible SN74LVC138AQPWRQ1 is the designated alternative. The 74LVC138APW/AUJ itself carries no automotive qualification status.
74LVC138APW/AUJ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- NXP Semiconductors
- Series:
- 74LVC
- Package/Case:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Decoder/Demultiplexer
- Circuit:
- 1 x 3:8
- Independent Circuits:
- 1
- Current - Output High, Low:
- 24mA, 24mA
- Voltage Supply Source:
- Single Supply
- Voltage - Supply:
- 1.2V ~ 3.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TSSOP
74LVC138APW/AUJ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for 74LVC138APW/AUJ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for 74LVC138APW/AUJ on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for 74LVC138APW/AUJ reliable?
The price and inventory of 74LVC138APW/AUJ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for 74LVC138APW/AUJ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for 74LVC138APW/AUJ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
74LVC138APW/AUJ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your 74LVC138APW/AUJ order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
For technical support, including 74LVC138APW/AUJ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your 74LVC138APW/AUJ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that 74LVC138APW/AUJ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All 74LVC138APW/AUJ products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that 74LVC138APW/AUJ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of 74LVC138APW/AUJ?
All 74LVC138APW/AUJ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with 74LVC138APW/AUJ, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The 74LVC138APW/AUJ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for 74LVC138APW/AUJ:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
74LVC138APW/AUJ Tags
-
SN74HC138DR
Texas Instruments

-
TC7SB3157CFU,LF(CT
Toshiba Semiconductor and Storage

-
74CBTLV3257PW,118
Nexperia USA Inc.
-
SN74CBTLV3257PWR
Texas Instruments

-
74CBTLV3257GUX
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
74HC154BQ,118
Nexperia USA Inc.

-
P3S0200GMX
NXP USA Inc.

-
SN74CB3Q3245PWR
Texas Instruments
-
SN74CB3Q3257RGYR
Texas Instruments

-
TCA9543APWR
Texas Instruments
-
TCA9546APWR
Texas Instruments

-
SN74HC138N
Texas Instruments
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
