NXP 74LVC38ABQ: A Low-Voltage Quad 2-Input NAND Gate with 3-State Outputs

The NXP 74LVC38ABQ is a high-performance, low-voltage CMOS logic device belonging to the 74LVC family, designed to operate at 3.3 V or lower voltage levels, making it ideal for modern digital systems where power efficiency and signal integrity are critical. This IC integrates four independent 2-input NAND gates, each featuring 3-state outputs that provide high impedance when disabled, allowing multiple devices to share a common bus without interference.

A key advantage of the 74LVC38ABQ is its wide supply voltage range from 1.65 V to 3.6 V, enabling seamless interfacing with both legacy 5V TTL systems and contemporary low-voltage microcontrollers or FPGAs. The device supports live insertion and removal, thanks to its robust input/output structures that tolerate voltages up to 5.5 V, ensuring system reliability during hot-swapping operations. Additionally, it offers low power consumption and high noise immunity, characteristics inherent to advanced CMOS technology.

The 3-state output capability is particularly valuable in bus-oriented applications, such as data communication networks, memory addressing, and peripheral interfacing, where multiple drivers must coexist. The outputs can be controlled via an enable pin (OE), which, when driven high, places the outputs in a high-impedance state, effectively disconnecting the gate from the bus.

Housed in a space-saving DHVQFN14 package, the 74LVC38ABQ is suitable for compact and high-density PCB designs. Its -40°C to +125°C operating temperature range ensures performance across industrial and automotive environments, while its ESD protection exceeds 2 kV, safeguarding against electrostatic discharges.

ICGOOODFIND: The 74LVC38ABQ exemplifies NXP’s commitment to delivering versatile, low-voltage logic solutions with enhanced integration and reliability for next-generation digital systems.

Keywords:

Low-Voltage CMOS

3-State Outputs

Bus Interface

Wide Voltage Range

DHVQFN14 Package