onsemi 74VHCT04AN

Overview

74VHCT04AN from ON Semiconductor is a hex inverter IC designed for digital logic level translation and signal inversion in 5V CMOS systems. It delivers 4.7ns typical propagation delay, ±25mA output drive, and operates across –40°C to +85°C with 4.5V–5.5V supply. It interfaces 3V/5V mixed-voltage systems while maintaining TTL-compatible input thresholds.

For engineers reviewing the 74VHCT04AN datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, key selection criteria include its 5V-only operation, power-down protection on all I/O, low 2µA quiescent current, and compatibility with legacy 74HCT04 layouts and timing requirements.

Technical Context

The 74VHCT04AN implements six independent CMOS inverter stages using silicon-gate technology, each with buffered output for enhanced noise immunity and stable switching. Its input protection circuitry allows safe application of 0V–7V signals regardless of VCC state, enabling robust hot-swap and battery-backup use cases.

All inputs feature power-down protection and are guaranteed to tolerate voltages up to 7.0V even when VCC = 0V. Output stages support rail-to-rail swing under load (VOL = 0.44V max at 8mA, VOH = 3.80V min at –8mA) and exhibit low dynamic noise (VOLP ≤ 1.0V at CL = 50pF).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

74VHCT04AN is supplied in a 14-lead PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) with 0.300" body width, lead finish matte tin, and JEDEC-standard pinout. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; pins are numbered counter-clockwise from top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 74VHCT04AM and SN74HCT04N, the 74VHCT04AN offers the lowest quiescent current and fastest typical propagation delay in a through-hole package-making it optimal for industrial diagnostics tools, field-serviceable modules, and prototyping platforms requiring manual assembly and minimal standby drain.

Availability

74VHCT04AN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control panels, legacy system refurbishment, and microcontroller interface design requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for 74VHCT04AN 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

ON Semiconductor is a global semiconductor manufacturer specializing in energy-efficient power, analog, sensor, and logic solutions for automotive, industrial, cloud, and IoT applications.

The 74VHCT04AN belongs to ON Semiconductor's legacy logic portfolio inherited from Fairchild, engineered for robust 5V digital interfacing with emphasis on mixed-voltage compatibility, ESD resilience, and industrial temperature operation.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for the 74VHCT04AN?

The 74VHCT04AN has an absolute maximum supply voltage (VCC) rating of +7.0V, though recommended operation is strictly limited to 4.5V–5.5V. Exceeding 5.5V may cause parametric shift or reliability degradation despite surviving short-term stress. Always operate the 74VHCT04AN within its specified 4.5V–5.5V window for guaranteed timing, noise immunity, and lifetime performance.

Does the 74VHCT04AN support 3.3V input logic levels?

Yes-the 74VHCT04AN accepts 3.3V logic-high inputs reliably because its VIH threshold is fixed at 2.0V (min), well below 3.3V. However, it does not generate 3.3V-compatible outputs: its VOH is ≥3.80V at –8mA under 5V supply, so direct connection to 3.3V-only inputs requires level translation. The 74VHCT04AN is intended for 5V-system use with 3.3V-tolerant inputs-not bidirectional level shifting.

Can unused inputs on the 74VHCT04AN be left floating?

No-unused inputs on the 74VHCT04AN must be tied HIGH or LOW per datasheet requirement (Note 4). Floating inputs risk oscillation, increased ICC, and excessive power dissipation due to undefined input stage bias. Each unconnected input draws unpredictable current and may induce crosstalk. For robust design, terminate all six inputs of the 74VHCT04AN to VCC or GND via 10kΩ resistors or direct connection.

Is the 74VHCT04AN RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes-the 74VHCT04AN is lead-free and complies with JEDEC J-STD-020B for moisture sensitivity and RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU. Its PDIP package uses matte tin lead finish and meets exemption 7a for lead in electronic ceramic parts (not applicable here) and exemption 7c-I for lead in high-melting-temperature type solders (also not used). Full compliance documentation is available via ON Semiconductor's product change notices and material declarations.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of the 74VHCT04AN in PDIP package?

The 74VHCT04AN in 14-lead PDIP has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 65°C/W under standard JEDEC 2-layer board conditions (1-inch² copper pad, 2 oz Cu). This value assumes no forced airflow and standard mounting. At maximum rated ICC (20µA) and worst-case output loading, self-heating remains negligible (<0.001°C), making thermal derating unnecessary for normal operation of the 74VHCT04AN.