CD74HC4538PW Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The CD74HC4538PW is a monostable multivibrator logic IC manufactured by Texas Instruments, housed in a 16-TSSOP surface mount package. This device features dual independent circuits with Schmitt trigger inputs and a 21 ns propagation delay. The part is currently in Last Time Buy status, indicating end-of-life production. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to ensure design continuity and maintain supply chain reliability for new production runs and long-term component availability.

Substiute Parts

CD74HC4538PW

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 2770CD74HC4538PW Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

CD74HC4538PWR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 10499CD74HC4538PWR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

74HC4538DB,112

Nexperia USA Inc.In Stock: 97374HC4538DB,112 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

74HC4538PW,118

Nexperia USA Inc.In Stock: 1045774HC4538PW,118 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

74HC4538PW-Q100,11

Nexperia USA Inc.In Stock: 295774HC4538PW-Q100,11 Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

MC74HC4538ADTR2G

onsemiIn Stock: 16531MC74HC4538ADTR2G Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the CD74HC4538PW is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Base product number (74HC4538) ensures functional equivalence as a monostable multivibrator
• Package type (16-TSSOP) maintains PCB layout compatibility
• Voltage supply range (2 V to 6 V) and output current specifications (5.2 mA) ensure electrical compatibility
• Operating temperature range (-55°C to 125°C minimum) supports the same environmental conditions
• RoHS3 compliance and MSL Level 1 ensure regulatory and manufacturing process compatibility

Substitute parts are grouped into two categories based on propagation delay and Schmitt trigger input availability:

Category A (Fastest, Schmitt Trigger): CD74HC4538PWR (21 ns, Schmitt trigger, Active status)

Category B (Standard Delay, No Schmitt Trigger): 74HC4538PW,118 and 74HC4538PW-Q100,11 (25 ns, no Schmitt trigger, Active status)

Category C (Slower Delay, Schmitt Trigger): MC74HC4538ADTR2G (30 ns, Schmitt trigger, Last Time Buy status)

Category D (Alternate Package): 74HC4538DB,112 (25 ns, 16-SSOP package, Obsolete status)

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

Primary Recommendation: CD74HC4538PWR (Texas Instruments)

This part maintains identical electrical specifications to the CD74HC4538PW, including 21 ns propagation delay and Schmitt trigger input functionality. It is manufactured by the same supplier and carries Active product status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. The part is available in Cut Tape and Digi-Reel packaging formats, supporting both prototype and production volume requirements.

Secondary Recommendation: 74HC4538PW,118 (Nexperia USA Inc.)

This part is functionally compatible with a 4 ns increase in propagation delay (25 ns vs. 21 ns) and removal of Schmitt trigger input. It maintains the same 16-TSSOP package footprint and voltage/current specifications. Active product status ensures continued availability. This option is suitable for applications where the propagation delay increase and absence of Schmitt trigger input do not impact circuit performance.

Tertiary Recommendation: 74HC4538PW-Q100,11 (Nexperia USA Inc.)

This automotive-grade variant (AEC-Q100 qualified) provides the same electrical performance as 74HC4538PW,118 with additional qualification for automotive applications. Operating temperature range is -40°C to 125°C. Select this part only if automotive qualification is a design requirement.

Not Recommended for Direct Substitution: 74HC4538DB,112 (Nexperia USA Inc.)

This part uses a 16-SSOP package (5.30mm width) instead of 16-TSSOP (4.40mm width), requiring PCB layout modification. Product status is Obsolete, limiting future availability. Use only if PCB redesign is acceptable and immediate inventory is confirmed.

Not Recommended for Direct Substitution: MC74HC4538ADTR2G (onsemi)

This part has a 30 ns propagation delay, representing a 43% increase from the original 21 ns specification. While Schmitt trigger input is retained, the extended delay may impact timing-critical circuit functions. Product status is Last Time Buy, indicating end-of-life production similar to the original part.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can I use 74HC4538PW,118 as a direct replacement for CD74HC4538PW?

A: Electrical substitution is possible if your circuit tolerates a 4 ns increase in propagation delay (25 ns vs. 21 ns) and does not require Schmitt trigger input functionality. The 16-TSSOP package footprint is identical, enabling direct PCB placement. Verify timing margins in your application before implementation.

Q: What is the difference between Schmitt trigger and non-Schmitt trigger versions?

A: Schmitt trigger input provides hysteresis, improving noise immunity on input signals. The CD74HC4538PW and MC74HC4538ADTR2G include Schmitt trigger inputs. The Nexperia 74HC4538 variants (74HC4538PW,118 and 74HC4538PW-Q100,11) do not. Select based on input signal quality requirements in your application.

Q: Why is CD74HC4538PWR recommended over CD74HC4538PW?

A: Both parts are manufactured by Texas Instruments with identical electrical specifications. CD74HC4538PWR has Active product status, ensuring continued production and supply availability. CD74HC4538PW is Last Time Buy, indicating end-of-life status. For new designs and long-term production, CD74HC4538PWR is the preferred choice.

Q: Can I use the 16-SSOP package variant (74HC4538DB,112) instead of 16-TSSOP?

A: The 16-SSOP package (5.30mm width) differs from 16-TSSOP (4.40mm width), requiring PCB footprint modification. Additionally, this part is Obsolete, limiting availability. Use only if PCB redesign is feasible and inventory is confirmed available.

Q: What is the significance of the AEC-Q100 qualification on 74HC4538PW-Q100,11?

A: AEC-Q100 qualification indicates the part meets automotive industry reliability and testing standards. Select this variant only if your application requires automotive-grade components. Standard industrial variants (74HC4538PW,118) are suitable for non-automotive applications.

Q: Are all substitute parts RoHS3 compliant?

A: Yes. All listed substitute parts carry RoHS3 compliance and MSL Level 1 (Unlimited moisture sensitivity), matching the original CD74HC4538PW specifications.

Q: What is the difference between Cut Tape, Digi-Reel, and Tape & Reel packaging?

A: Cut Tape and Digi-Reel are suitable for prototype and small-volume production. Tape & Reel packaging is optimized for high-volume automated assembly. Select based on production volume and assembly equipment capabilities.