74VHC161N Binary Counter IC Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The 74VHC161N is a 4-bit binary counter logic IC manufactured by onsemi, housed in a 16-DIP package. This component functions as a synchronous binary counter with asynchronous reset, designed for positive edge triggering applications. The part is currently classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for ongoing system support, maintenance, and new designs requiring compatible functionality.

Substiute Parts

74VHC161N

onsemiIn Stock: 99174VHC161N Datasheet

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CD74HC161E

Harris CorporationIn Stock: 2299CD74HC161E Datasheet

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SN74HC161N

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 13734SN74HC161N Datasheet

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Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the 74VHC161N is determined by strict equivalence in the following core parameters:

• Logic Type: Binary Counter
• Number of Bits per Element: 4 Bit
• Number of Elements: 1
• Direction: Up
• Reset Type: Asynchronous
• Timing: Synchronous
• Trigger Type: Positive Edge
• Package / Case: 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
• Mounting Type: Through Hole

The identified substitute parts—CD74HC161E and SN74HC161N—match all mandatory functional and physical parameters. Variations in count rate, voltage supply range, and operating temperature represent extended or different specifications but do not prevent functional substitution when system requirements fall within the overlapping ranges.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

SN74HC161N (Texas Instruments) is the primary substitute for new designs and ongoing support. This part maintains active product status, ensuring continued availability and manufacturer support. It is RoHS3 compliant and carries REACH unaffected certification, meeting modern regulatory requirements. The operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C) matches the original 74VHC161N, and the count rate of 36 MHz is sufficient for most applications within the 5.5 V supply constraint of the original design.

CD74HC161E (Harris Corporation) serves as a secondary substitute where extended operating temperature range (-55°C ~ 125°C) or higher supply voltage tolerance (2 V ~ 6 V) is required. This part is obsolete and carries RoHS non-compliant status, limiting its use to legacy system maintenance or specialized applications where regulatory compliance is not a constraint. The lower count rate of 24 MHz may restrict use in high-frequency applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SN74HC161N directly replace 74VHC161N in existing designs?

A: Yes. Both parts share identical logic type, bit configuration, reset behavior, timing characteristics, trigger type, and 16-DIP package. The SN74HC161N operates within the 74VHC161N supply voltage range (2 V ~ 5.5 V overlap) and maintains the same operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C). Pin-for-pin compatibility is confirmed.

Q: What is the difference between 74VHC and 74HC series designations?

A: The 74VHC series (onsemi) and 74HC series (Harris, Texas Instruments) represent different manufacturer implementations of the same logic function. Both are synchronous 4-bit binary counters with identical functional specifications and package form factors. The VHC designation indicates onsemi's variant.

Q: Is CD74HC161E suitable for high-speed applications?

A: CD74HC161E operates at a maximum count rate of 24 MHz, which is lower than both the 74VHC161N (125 MHz) and SN74HC161N (36 MHz). Applications requiring count rates above 24 MHz should use SN74HC161N or the original 74VHC161N if available.

Q: Are there RoHS compliance differences between substitutes?

A: Yes. SN74HC161N is RoHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental regulations. CD74HC161E is RoHS non-compliant and should be used only in applications where RoHS compliance is not required or in legacy system maintenance.

Q: Can these parts be used interchangeably in through-hole PCB designs?

A: Yes. All three parts use identical 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) through-hole packaging. PCB footprints and mounting procedures are identical across all substitutes.