NXP Semiconductors N74F373DB,112

Overview

N74F373DB,112 from Philips Semiconductors is an octal transparent latch with 3-State outputs, designed for data latching and bus isolation in TTL-compatible digital systems. It features 8-bit parallel data capture on HIGH enable (E), independent active-LOW output enable (OE), 4.5 ns typical D-to-Q propagation delay, 35 mA typical supply current at V_CC = 5 V, and operates across 0 °C to +70 °C.

For engineers reviewing the N74F373DB,112 datasheet, N74F373DB,112 pinout, N74F373DB,112 application, or N74F373DB,112 equivalent, key selection criteria include transparent latch timing behavior, 3-State bus drive capability (24 mA sink per output), SSOP-20 package footprint, and compatibility with 5 V ±10 % supply rails in memory address/data buffering and microprocessor peripheral interfacing.

Technical Context

The N74F373DB,112 implements a dual-control architecture: the E input enables real-time transparency of D_0–7 to Q_0–7, with data latched on the HIGH-to-LOW transition; OE independently controls all eight 3-State outputs, placing them in high-impedance state when asserted HIGH. This separation allows concurrent latch storage and bus release.

It delivers glitch-free 3-State operation during power-up/down, supports heavy loading of MOS memories and microprocessor buses, and meets FAST TTL logic thresholds (V_IL ≤ 0.8 V, V_IH ≥ 2.0 V) with 1.0 unit load input drive and 150/40 U.L. output fan-out (HIGH/LOW).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin plastic shrink small outline package (SSOP), body width 5.3 mm, PKG DWG # SOT339-1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar octal transparent latch applications.

Compared with SN74F373N, N74F373DB,112 offers 40 % smaller PCB footprint and improved thermal dissipation in surface-mount layouts; compared with 74ACT373SCX, it maintains full 74F voltage thresholds and timing for drop-in replacement in legacy TTL designs without level-shifting.

Availability

N74F373DB,112 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for memory subsystem design, microprocessor peripheral interfacing, parallel I/O expansion, and industrial control logic requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for N74F373DB,112 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 global semiconductor innovator founded in the Netherlands, specializing in analog, logic, and interface ICs for industrial, computing, and communications markets.

The 74F logic family, including N74F373DB,112, was engineered for high-speed, low-power TTL-compatible operation in 1980s–1990s computing and instrumentation systems, emphasizing timing precision, bus drive strength, and robustness in noisy environments.

FAQ

What is the function of pin 1 (OE) on the N74F373DB,112?

Pin 1 is the active-LOW output enable (OE) input. When OE is LOW, the latched or transparent data at Q_0–7 appears on the outputs; when OE is HIGH, all eight outputs enter high-impedance state, disconnecting the device from the bus. This control is fully independent of the E (enable) signal and remains functional across the full operating temperature range of the N74F373DB,112.

Does the N74F373DB,112 support hot insertion or live bus connection?

The N74F373DB,112 does not include explicit hot-swap protection circuitry. However, its glitch-free 3-State behavior during power-up/down and absolute maximum ratings (e.g., V_IN = –0.5 to +7.0 V) allow safe connection to a powered bus if OE is held HIGH until V_CC stabilizes. For guaranteed hot-plug operation, external series resistors or dedicated hot-swap controllers are recommended alongside the N74F373DB,112.

What is the minimum pulse width required on the E input for reliable latching in the N74F373DB,112?

The minimum HIGH pulse width on the E input is 4.0 ns (typical) and 3.5 ns (min) at V_CC = 5.0 V ±10 %, as specified in the AC set-up requirements. This ensures sufficient time for internal latch nodes to stabilize before the HIGH-to-LOW transition captures valid D_0–7 data. Violating this width may result in metastability or incorrect latched values in the N74F373DB,112.

Can the N74F373DB,112 be used as a direct replacement for the 74LS373 in existing designs?

Yes, the N74F373DB,112 is pin-compatible and electrically compatible with the 74LS373, offering faster propagation delay (4.5 ns vs. 17 ns typical), higher output drive (24 mA vs. 8 mA), and identical 20-pin SSOP footprint. Its V_IH/V_IL thresholds match LS logic, and it operates within the same 5 V ±10 % supply range - making the N74F373DB,112 a performance upgrade with no layout changes required.

What is the maximum capacitive load the N74F373DB,112 can drive on its Q outputs?

The N74F373DB,112 is characterized for CL = 50 pF in AC electrical specifications, with propagation delays and timing margins validated under that load. While it can drive heavier loads (e.g., >100 pF) due to its 24 mA sink capability, doing so increases t_PLH/t_PHL and may violate setup/hold windows in high-speed systems. For reliable operation beyond 50 pF, verify timing margins using the N74F373DB,112's published AC waveforms and load-dependent delay curves.