Texas Instruments SN74LS384N

Overview

SN74LS384N from Texas Instruments is an 8-bit by 1-bit two's-complement multiplier IC in a 16-pin PDIP package, operating at 5 V supply with typical propagation delay of 35 ns and maximum power dissipation of 120 mW. It performs signed binary multiplication for digital arithmetic units in legacy computing and instrumentation systems.

For engineers reviewing the SN74LS384N datasheet, SN74LS384N pinout, SN74LS384N application, or SN74LS384N equivalent, key selection criteria include its fixed 1-bit multiplier architecture, TTL-compatible input thresholds, guaranteed operation over 0°C to 70°C, and compatibility with standard LS logic families in arithmetic subsystems.

Technical Context

The SN74LS384N implements a dedicated combinational multiplier core that accepts one 8-bit two's-complement operand (A7–A0) and one 1-bit signed operand (B), producing a 9-bit two's-complement result (P8–P0). Its architecture avoids iterative addition or clocked control, delivering fully synchronous multiplication in a single TTL propagation cycle.

All inputs are TTL-compatible with VIH ≥ 2 V and VIL ≤ 0.8 V; outputs drive standard LS loads with VOH ≥ 2.7 V and VOL ≤ 0.5 V at VCC = 5 V. The device requires no external clocks or control sequencing-operation is purely level-sensitive and combinatorial.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74LS384N is housed in a 16-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP) with 0.3-inch body width and standard through-hole mounting footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74LS284N and SN74LS181N, the SN74LS384N delivers minimal-latency signed scaling for fixed 1-bit coefficient applications-ideal where operand simplicity, timing determinism, and board-space efficiency outweigh flexibility.

Availability

SN74LS384N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for legacy system repair, industrial controller refurbishment, and educational electronics labs requiring stable component supply of through-hole TTL logic.

Supply support for SN74LS384N 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 innovator founded in 1930, pioneering analog and logic technologies with broad manufacturing scale and long-term product lifecycle commitment.

The SN74LS384N belongs to TI's classic 74LS TTL logic family, designed specifically for high-reliability, low-latency arithmetic functions in pre-microprocessor digital systems and early embedded controllers.

FAQ

What is the primary arithmetic function of the SN74LS384N?

The SN74LS384N performs 8-bit by 1-bit two's-complement multiplication, accepting an 8-bit signed operand (A7–A0) and a single signed bit (B) to produce a 9-bit signed result (P8–P0). It operates combinatorially with no clock input, making it suitable for synchronous arithmetic pipelines where deterministic latency is critical. The SN74LS384N does not support multi-bit multipliers or unsigned-only operation.

Does the SN74LS384N require a clock signal to operate?

No, the SN74LS384N is a fully combinational device with no internal clock or state elements. Multiplication occurs asynchronously upon stabilization of inputs A0–A7 and B, with output P0–P8 valid after the specified propagation delay (max 35 ns). This eliminates clock-domain synchronization concerns and allows direct integration into level-sensitive logic paths. The SN74LS384N has no clock pin and ignores any external clock signals.

Can the SN74LS384N be used with 3.3-V logic systems?

No, the SN74LS384N is strictly a 5-V TTL device with input thresholds defined for VCC = 5 V ± 0.5 V. Its VIH minimum is 2.0 V and VIL maximum is 0.8 V, but output drive strength and noise margins are specified only at 5 V. Interfacing with 3.3-V systems requires level-shifting circuitry; direct connection risks unreliable switching and increased power consumption. The SN74LS384N is not 3.3-V tolerant.

What is the significance of the "LS" in SN74LS384N?

The "LS" denotes Low-Power Schottky TTL, indicating the SN74LS384N uses Schottky-clamped bipolar transistors to achieve lower power consumption (120 mW max) and faster switching (35 ns delay) than standard 74-series TTL. This places it in TI's second-generation TTL family optimized for balance between speed and power in mid-1980s digital systems. The SN74LS384N shares electrical compatibility with other 74LS devices but is not pin-compatible with non-LS variants.

Is the SN74LS384N still manufactured, or is it obsolete?

The SN74LS384N is discontinued by Texas Instruments and no longer in active production; however, Aetrix Electronics maintains verified legacy stock with full traceability and extended availability support. Units supplied meet original SDLS169 specifications and are suitable for repair, replacement, and low-volume production of legacy equipment. The SN74LS384N datasheet remains publicly archived by TI for design validation.