Texas Instruments SN74F74NE4

Overview

SN74F74NE4 from Texas Instruments is a dual positive-edge-triggered D-type flip-flop with independent preset and clear inputs, operating over 0°C to 70°C, supporting 80 MHz max clock frequency, 3 ns typical tPLH propagation delay, and TTL-compatible 5 V supply. It serves as a synchronous storage element in digital control logic, state machines, and data synchronization circuits.

For engineers reviewing the SN74F74NE4 datasheet, SN74F74NE4 pinout, SN74F74NE4 application, or SN74F74NE4 equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual DFF architecture with asynchronous PRE/CLR, PDIP-14 package compatibility, guaranteed timing at 5 V, and legacy F-series TTL performance characteristics for industrial control and retro-compatibility designs.

Technical Context

This device implements two independent edge-triggered D latches with active-low asynchronous preset (PRE) and clear (CLR), where PRE/CLR override clock and data inputs. Each flip-flop samples D input on the rising edge of CLK only when both PRE and CLR are high.

Logic behavior follows standard D-type truth table with non-overlapping PRE/CLR priority, and output transitions are specified under 50 pF capacitive load with 500 Ω termination. Timing parameters-including setup (2 ns min), hold (1 ns min), and propagation delays (3–9.2 ns)-are validated across 4.5–5.5 V supply and full temperature range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74F74NE4 uses a 14-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP-N), 0.300-inch width, with standard through-hole mounting and industry-standard pin 1 marking notch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual D-type flip-flop applications.

Compared with SN74LS74AN and SN74HC74N, the SN74F74NE4 delivers superior speed and drive strength at 5 V while maintaining direct TTL interoperability-making it optimal for performance-critical legacy upgrades and industrial timing-critical functions where F-series timing guarantees are mandatory.

Availability

SN74F74NE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control sequencing, digital test equipment, legacy system repair, and education & lab training requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for SN74F74NE4 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company founded in 1930, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and logic ICs with broad industrial, automotive, and aerospace qualification.

The SN74F74NE4 belongs to TI's 74F (Fast TTL) logic family, designed specifically for high-speed digital systems requiring improved propagation delay and drive capability over standard TTL while retaining pin and functional compatibility.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the SN74F74NE4?

The SN74F74NE4 supports a maximum clock frequency of 80 MHz under recommended operating conditions (VCC = 4.5–5.5 V, TA = 0°C to 70°C). This rating is verified with CL = 50 pF and RL = 500 Ω load, and reflects guaranteed timing performance-not typical or best-case values. The SN74F74NE4 achieves this via optimized F-series TTL circuitry, distinguishing it from slower LS or HC variants.

Does the SN74F74NE4 have pin-compatible alternatives in the same PDIP-14 package?

Yes, the SN74F74NE4 is pin-compatible with other 74xx74 variants in PDIP-14, including SN74LS74AN and SN74HC74N. However, only SN74F74NE4 guarantees 80 MHz operation and F-series timing. Electrical differences-such as input thresholds, output drive, and power consumption-require validation before substitution. The SN74F74NE4 itself maintains identical pinout and function to original SN74F74N devices.

What are the absolute maximum ratings for SN74F74NE4 supply voltage and input voltage?

The SN74F74NE4 has an absolute maximum supply voltage (VCC) of –0.5 V to 7 V and absolute maximum input voltage (VI) of –1.2 V to 7 V. Exceeding these limits-even momentarily-may cause permanent damage. These ratings are stress-only values; functional operation is only assured within the recommended range of 4.5–5.5 V for VCC and –0.5 V to VCC for VI. The SN74F74NE4 datasheet explicitly warns that reliability may degrade if absolute maxima are exceeded repeatedly.

How does the asynchronous preset and clear functionality work on the SN74F74NE4?

On the SN74F74NE4, preset (PRE) and clear (CLR) are active-low, asynchronous inputs that force the corresponding flip-flop's Q output to 1 or 0 respectively-regardless of clock or data state. When both PRE and CLR are high, the device operates synchronously on the rising clock edge. The SN74F74NE4's function table confirms that PRE/CLR take priority over CLK and D, enabling immediate state initialization or fault recovery without clock dependency.

Is the SN74F74NE4 RoHS compliant and what is its lead finish?

Yes, the SN74F74NE4 is RoHS compliant with NiPdAu (NIPDAU) lead finish. Per TI's packaging addendum, it carries MSL rating "N/A for Pkg Type" due to its through-hole PDIP construction, meaning moisture sensitivity is not applicable. The SN74F74NE4 is supplied in tube packaging (25 units per tube), and its part marking reads "SN74F74N", consistent with TI's standard labeling for this variant.