STMicroelectronics M74HC294RM13TR

Overview

M74HC294RM13TR from STMicroelectronics is a high-speed CMOS programmable divider/timer IC with dual clock inputs (CLK1, CLK2), active-low asynchronous clear (CLR), and two outputs - Q (totem-pole) and TP (open-drain test point). It supports division ratios from 2² to 2¹⁵ (4 to 32,768), operates from 2V to 6V, delivers 75 MHz max clock frequency at VCC = 6V, and features symmetrical output drive (±4 mA min) for precision timing in frequency synthesis applications.

For engineers reviewing the M74HC294RM13TR datasheet, M74HC294RM13TR pinout, M74HC294RM13TR application, or M74HC294RM13TR equivalent, key selection criteria include programmable division range, dual-clock gating capability, open-drain test point for system diagnostics, low quiescent current (4 µA max), and TSSOP-16 packaging for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The M74HC294RM13TR implements a synchronous binary counter architecture with programmable preset logic, enabling precise integer division of input clocks. Its dual-clock inputs allow flexible clock gating or source selection, while the active-low CLR asynchronously resets all internal flip-flops to zero state independent of clock edges.

It features two distinct output configurations: Q uses totem-pole CMOS for standard logic-level driving, while TP is open-drain for wired-OR interfacing or pull-up–controlled diagnostic signaling. Propagation delays are balanced (tPLH ≅ tPHL), and noise immunity meets 28% VCC minimum for both VIH and VIL thresholds across the full operating temperature range (–55°C to +125°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: TSSOP-16 (4.9 × 6.4 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, surface-mount, moisture-sensitive level 1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable divider/timer applications.

Compared with CD74HC4060M96 and SN74LV595APWR, the M74HC294RM13TR uniquely combines programmable integer division, dual-clock flexibility, and diagnostic TP output - making it irreplaceable in applications demanding configurable, low-jitter clock scaling with observability.

Availability

M74HC294RM13TR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for motor control timing, industrial PLC clock distribution, RF transceiver local oscillator generation, and test equipment frequency synthesis requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for M74HC294RM13TR 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 management ICs, sensors, and analog/mixed-signal devices for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The M74HC294 belongs to ST's legacy HC logic product line, engineered for high-speed, low-power, and high-noise-immunity operation in mission-critical timing and control applications across harsh environments.

FAQ

What is the function of the TP (Test Point) pin on the M74HC294RM13TR?

The TP pin is an open-drain output tied to an internal node for diagnostic visibility. It does not mirror Q but reflects specific internal state transitions during counting. It requires an external pull-up resistor (typically 10 kΩ to VCC) and is intended for non-intrusive debugging - e.g., verifying division ratio loading or detecting stuck states during firmware initialization.

Can CLK1 and CLK2 be driven by different frequency sources simultaneously?

Yes - CLK1 and CLK2 are independent inputs with identical electrical specs. The functional table shows that asserting one clock while holding the other low enables gated counting. However, simultaneous high-frequency toggling on both is undefined; the device samples only the active clock per cycle, and concurrent transitions may cause metastability in edge-sensitive paths.

Does the M74HC294RM13TR support 3.3V-only operation with guaranteed timing performance?

Yes - the recommended operating conditions specify VCC = 2V to 6V, and AC characteristics are characterized down to 2V. At 3.3V, fMAX is 32 MHz (min) and propagation delay is 66 ns (max) over –40°C to +85°C, fully meeting timing requirements for most microcontroller-peripheral clocking and sensor interface applications.

How is the division ratio programmed using inputs A–E?

A–E are 5-bit binary inputs (A = LSB, E = MSB) that select one of 32 division ratios per the functional table. For example, A–E = H,L,L,H,L (10010₂) selects 2¹⁰ = 1024. Inputs are latched on the rising edge of the active clock; values must be stable before clock arrival and held for tW(H) ≥13 ns (at VCC = 6V) to ensure correct ratio capture.