Texas Instruments CD74HC237PWE4

Overview

CD74HC237PWE4 from Texas Instruments is a high-speed CMOS 3-to-8 line decoder/demultiplexer with address latches, featuring active-high outputs, dual output enables (OE0, OE1), and latch enable (LE) for input isolation. It operates from 2V to 6V, delivers 13ns typical propagation delay at 5V/15pF, and supports industrial temperature range (–55°C to +125°C). It is used in memory address decoding and data routing applications where output polarity and cascading flexibility are critical.

For engineers reviewing the CD74HC237PWE4 datasheet, CD74HC237PWE4 pinout, CD74HC237PWE4 application, or CD74HC237PWE4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its active-high decoded output behavior (vs. '137's active-low), latch-controlled transparency mode, dual enable architecture for hierarchical demuxing, and TSSOP-16 packaging suitable for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The CD74HC237PWE4 implements a 3-bit binary address latch followed by an active-high 1-of-8 decoder. Its LE input controls whether A0–A2 inputs are latched (LE = high) or passed transparently (LE = low), enabling synchronized address capture. Output selection is determined by the latched address, while OE0 and OE1 jointly control output state - both must be asserted (OE0 = high, OE1 = high) for valid output drive.

Unlike the CD74HC137, this device asserts the selected Y_n output high while holding all others low. Demultiplexing is achieved by using one enable (e.g., OE0) as the data input and the other (OE1) as the active-enable signal, with A0–A2 selecting the destination output line.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-16 package (PW suffix), 4.4mm × 5mm body, 0.65mm lead pitch, 1.2mm max height, RoHS-compliant NiPdAu lead finish, MSL Level-1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 3-to-8 decoder/demultiplexer applications.

Compared with CD74HC137PWE4, the CD74HC237PWE4 provides active-high outputs essential for direct interface with high-enable peripherals, while SN74HC237PWR offers identical performance in a logistics-optimized reel format - both preserve the same latch-enable timing, dual-OE cascading, and extended temperature support.

Availability

CD74HC237PWE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for memory address decoding, peripheral I/O selection, programmable logic interfaces, and industrial control signal routing requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges.

Supply support for CD74HC237PWE4 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions with over 90 years of innovation in high-reliability IC design.

The CD74HC237PWE4 belongs to TI's HC-series high-speed CMOS logic family, designed specifically for low-power, high-noise-immunity address decoding and data routing in industrial, automotive, and aerospace systems.

FAQ

What is the output behavior of CD74HC237PWE4 compared to CD74HC137PWE4?

The CD74HC237PWE4 asserts the selected output (Y0–Y7) high while holding all others low, whereas CD74HC137PWE4 drives the selected output low. This active-high behavior eliminates the need for external inverters when interfacing with high-enable peripherals, simplifying board design and reducing component count in systems requiring positive-logic selection.

Does CD74HC237PWE4 support 3.3V operation?

Yes, CD74HC237PWE4 supports 3.3V operation within its specified 2V–6V supply range. At VCC = 3.3V, it maintains full logic-level compatibility, with VIH(min) = 2.1V and VIL(max) = 1.1V, ensuring robust noise margins (>30% of VCC) and reliable interfacing with 3.3V microcontrollers and FPGAs.

How is demultiplexing implemented using CD74HC237PWE4?

Demultiplexing with CD74HC237PWE4 is achieved by using one output enable (e.g., OE0) as the data input and the other (OE1) as the fixed active-enable signal. The 3-bit address (A0–A2) selects which Y_n output receives the data, allowing a single input line to be routed to one of eight destinations without additional logic gates.

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by CD74HC237PWE4?

CD74HC237PWE4 does not have a defined maximum clock frequency because it is combinational logic with no internal clock. Its usable switching rate depends on propagation delay (13ns typical at 5V/15pF) and system-level timing constraints. For reliable operation, input signal transitions should allow setup/hold times (e.g., tSU = 10ns min at 4.5V) and avoid violating minimum pulse widths (tW = 10ns min).

Is CD74HC237PWE4 pin-compatible with CD74HC237PW or CD74HC237PWR?

Yes, CD74HC237PWE4 is pin-compatible with CD74HC237PW and CD74HC237PWR - all use the TSSOP-16 (PW) package with identical pinout, mechanical dimensions, and thermal characteristics. The suffix differences denote packaging format (tube vs. tape-and-reel) and environmental compliance, not functional or physical variation.