STMicroelectronics 74VHCT04AMTR

Overview

74VHCT04AMTR from STMicroelectronics is a high-speed CMOS hex inverter with TTL-compatible inputs, 4.7 ns typical propagation delay at 5 V, ±8 mA symmetrical output drive, and operation across 4.5–5.5 V supply. It provides power-down protection, 2 kV ESD immunity, and is used in 5 V/3 V level-shifting logic interfaces and clock signal inversion in industrial control panels.

For engineers reviewing the 74VHCT04AMTR datasheet, 74VHCT04AMTR pinout, 74VHCT04AMTR application, or 74VHCT04AMTR equivalent, key selection criteria include input threshold compatibility (VIH ≥ 2 V, VIL ≤ 0.8 V), rail-to-rail input tolerance (0–7 V), low quiescent current (2 µA max), and SO-14 package mechanical dimensions for PCB layout verification.

Technical Context

The device implements six independent inverting buffers using sub-micron C2MOS technology with three-stage internal circuitry including output buffering for enhanced noise immunity. Input thresholds are fixed to TTL levels, enabling direct interfacing with legacy 5 V TTL outputs without external biasing.

All inputs and outputs feature diode-based clamping and latch-up immunity, supporting safe operation during power sequencing. The symmetrical output impedance (|IOH| = |IOL| ≥ 8 mA) ensures matched rise/fall times and balanced propagation delays (tPLH ≅ tPHL), critical for timing-critical inversion in clock distribution networks.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

74VHCT04AMTR is supplied in a 14-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package, surface-mount, tape-and-reel format (MTR suffix). Dimensions conform to JEDEC MS-012, with body width 3.9 mm, lead pitch 1.27 mm, and total length 8.65 mm.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar hex inverter applications.

Compared with SN74VHC04DR and 74LCX04MTCX, the 74VHCT04AMTR uniquely combines TTL input compatibility, full power-down protection, and 5 V rail tolerance - making it the only choice for legacy 5 V system upgrades requiring zero-change logic replacement.

Availability

74VHCT04AMTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC I/O modules, automotive body control units, and medical diagnostic equipment panels requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (−55°C to +125°C).

Supply support for 74VHCT04AMTR 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in automotive, industrial, and power management ICs with over 40 years of analog and digital logic innovation.

The VHCT logic family was designed specifically for seamless 5 V TTL-to-CMOS migration, delivering pin- and function-compatibility with legacy 74-series devices while adding ESD hardening, power-down safety, and improved noise margins.

FAQ

Is 74VHCT04AMTR compatible with 3.3 V microcontroller outputs?

Yes - its TTL-compatible inputs accept VIH ≥ 2.0 V, so standard 3.3 V CMOS outputs (typically 2.4–3.3 V high) meet this threshold. No level shifter is needed. However, outputs swing rail-to-rail (0 V/5 V), so downstream 3.3 V devices require 5 V tolerance or series resistors.

What is the maximum capacitive load this device can drive reliably?

At 5 V supply and 25°C, the device maintains 4.7 ns typical propagation delay up to 15 pF. For 50 pF loads, delay increases to 5.5 ns. Driving >50 pF risks excessive rise/fall time degradation and increased VOLP noise; use a dedicated buffer for heavier loads.

Does 74VHCT04AMTR support partial power-down (e.g., VCC = 0 V while inputs active)?

Yes - its power-down protection ensures inputs and outputs enter high-impedance state when VCC = 0 V. Inputs tolerate −0.5 V to +7 V regardless of supply, preventing back-powering or latch-up during hot-swap or brown-out conditions.

Can this part replace obsolete 74LS04 in existing designs?

Yes - it is pin- and function-compatible with 74LS04, offers identical truth table and TTL input thresholds, but improves on speed (4.7 ns vs. 15 ns), power (2 µA vs. 19 mA quiescent), and ESD (2 kV vs. <500 V). No layout or firmware changes are required.