STMicroelectronics M74HC163RM13TR

Overview

M74HC163RM13TR from STMicroelectronics is a high-speed CMOS synchronous 4-bit binary presettable counter with asynchronous clear, synchronous load, and cascading carry output. It operates from 2V to 6V, delivers 62 MHz max clock frequency at 6V, features ±4 mA symmetrical output drive, and supports industrial temperature range (–55°C to +125°C). Used in digital timing control, address sequencing, and event counting circuits.

For engineers reviewing the M74HC163RM13TR datasheet, M74HC163RM13TR pinout, M74HC163RM13TR application, or M74HC163RM13TR equivalent, key selection criteria include synchronous preset capability, TSSOP-16 package compatibility, low ICC (4 µA max), noise immunity (28% VCC), and cascading support via TE/PE inputs and CARRY output.

Technical Context

The M74HC163RM13TR implements a fully synchronous 4-bit binary counter with rising-edge clock triggering. All state changes-including preset, count enable, and clear-are synchronized to the clock except for the asynchronous CLEAR input, which forces QA–QD to zero independently of clock phase.

Cascading is enabled through dual enable inputs (TE for carry generation, PE for counting) and a dedicated CARRY output that asserts when QA–QD = 1111 and TE = HIGH. The internal logic ensures glitch-free carry propagation and balanced tPLH/tPHL delays (e.g., 14–21 ns at 6V).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-16 package (5.0 mm × 4.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch), thin shrink small outline, lead-free, RoHS-compliant, surface-mountable with exposed pad not present.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar synchronous 4-bit counter applications.

Compared with SN74HC163PWR and 74VHC163FT, the M74HC163RM13TR offers superior temperature range (–55°C to +125°C), lowest quiescent current (4 µA), and optimized TSSOP footprint for space-constrained industrial PCBs-making it preferred for ruggedized timing applications.

Availability

M74HC163RM13TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial PLC timer modules, automotive body control units, consumer audio DSP clock dividers, and medical infusion pump event loggers requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for M74HC163RM13TR 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, designing and manufacturing microcontrollers, power ICs, sensors, and analog components for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The M74HC163RM13TR belongs to ST's high-speed CMOS logic family, engineered for low-power, noise-immune digital control in harsh environments-targeting applications demanding reliability, precision timing, and wide supply voltage tolerance.

FAQ

Is M74HC163RM13TR pin-compatible with standard 74LS163?

No. While functionally similar, M74HC163RM13TR uses CMOS input thresholds (VIH = 4.2 V at 6V) versus LS-TTL (VIH ≈ 2.0 V), and its TSSOP-16 footprint differs from DIP-16 or SO-16 packages used by 74LS163. Electrical interface requires level-shifting in mixed-logic systems.

Can CLEAR and LOAD be asserted simultaneously?

Yes, but CLEAR takes priority: when CLEAR = LOW, all outputs (QA–QD) force to 0 regardless of LOAD state or clock edge. LOAD only affects outputs when CLEAR = HIGH, ensuring predictable reset-first behavior during initialization sequences.

What is the maximum fan-out for M74HC163RM13TR outputs driving other HC inputs?

At VCC = 6V, each output can drive ≥10 HC-series inputs (IOL = 4 mA min, IIH = 1 µA max per load), assuming trace capacitance ≤20 pF and ambient temperature ≤85°C. For >10 loads, add series termination or buffer stages to maintain timing integrity.

Does CARRY assert during synchronous preset?

No. CARRY is only generated during count mode when QA–QD = 1111 and TE = HIGH. During synchronous load (LOAD = LOW), CARRY remains LOW regardless of A–D input values, preventing spurious cascade triggers during initialization.