NXP Semiconductors N74F242N,602

Overview

N74F242N,602 from Philips Semiconductors is a quad inverting 3-state transceiver IC used for bidirectional data bus isolation and level translation in TTL-compatible digital systems. It features 8 bidirectional data lines (A0–A3, B0–B3), dual active-low output enables (OEA, OEB), 4.3 ns typical propagation delay, 31.2 mA typical supply current at 5 V, and operates over 0°C to +70°C. It is commonly deployed in microprocessor address/data bus buffering and memory I/O interfacing.

For engineers reviewing the N74F242N,602 datasheet, N74F242N,602 pinout, N74F242N,602 application, or N74F242N,602 equivalent, key selection criteria include verified 3-state timing (tPZH/tPHZ ≤ 9.0 ns), guaranteed 64 mA sink capability per output, dual independent enable control, and compatibility with 74F logic family loading (3.5/1.67 U.L. inputs).

Technical Context

The N74F242N,602 implements two independent 4-bit inverting transceiver channels, each controlled by its own active-low output enable (OEA for A→B, OEB for B→A). Its logic function strictly inverts data flow: when enabled, A0–A3 drive inverted values onto B0–B3, and vice versa - no non-inverting path exists.

All outputs enter high-impedance state when their respective enable is high; simultaneous assertion of both enables causes undefined (prohibited) current paths. The device adheres to 74F AC/DC electrical standards, including VIH = 2.0 V min, VIL = 0.8 V max, IOH = –15 mA, and IOL = 64 mA, ensuring interoperability with legacy F-series TTL systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-pin plastic DIP (SOT27-1), 300 mil width, through-hole mount. Pin 7 = GND, Pin 14 = VCC.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74F242N and 74ACT242PC, the N74F242N,602 delivers proven 74F-family compatibility, robust ±10 % VCC tolerance, and field-tested reliability in commercial temperature-range industrial control systems - making it the preferred choice for maintenance and replacement of legacy hardware.

Availability

N74F242N,602 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for microprocessor bus buffering, memory I/O interfacing, legacy system data translation, and industrial control backplane applications requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for N74F242N,602 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

Philips Semiconductors (now NXP Semiconductors) is a pioneer in bipolar TTL logic design, known for high-reliability, industry-standard 74-series components widely adopted in computing and industrial electronics.

The 74F242 product line was engineered specifically for high-speed bidirectional bus isolation in commercial-grade microprocessor systems, emphasizing timing predictability, load drive, and interoperability with existing 74F infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the logic function of the N74F242N,602?

The N74F242N,602 is a quad inverting 3-state transceiver: data transferred from A to B or B to A is inverted. When OEA is low, A0–A3 drive inverted values onto B0–B3; when OEB is low, B0–B3 drive inverted values onto A0–A3. Both enables high place all outputs in high-impedance state.

Does the N74F242N,602 support non-inverting operation?

No. The N74F242N,602 implements only inverting transceiver logic. For non-inverting operation, the functionally distinct 74F243 (non-inverting quad transceiver) must be used - it shares pinout and package but differs in internal logic and propagation delay (4.0 ns typical).

What is the maximum allowable output short-circuit duration for the N74F242N,602?

The N74F242N,602 datasheet specifies that no more than one output should be shorted at a time, and IOS testing must be performed last in any test sequence to avoid thermal runaway. Prolonged shorting of a high-level output may raise die temperature beyond safe limits and invalidate other parameter measurements.

Can the N74F242N,602 be operated at 3.3 V?

No. The N74F242N,602 is specified only for VCC = 4.5 V to 5.5 V. Operation below 4.5 V violates recommended conditions and risks failure to meet VIH/VIL thresholds, propagation delay, and output drive specifications. For 3.3 V systems, consider 74LVC242 or similar CMOS families.

Is the N74F242N,602 pin-compatible with the 74LS242?

No. While both are quad inverting transceivers, the 74LS242 uses different input/output thresholds, slower timing (tPD ≈ 15 ns), and higher input loading. The N74F242N,602 is not a drop-in replacement for 74LS242 due to incompatible AC/DC characteristics and drive strength - board-level redesign is required for substitution.