SN74LS38DG4 Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SN74LS38DG4 is a NAND Gate IC with 4 channels and 2 inputs per channel, featuring open collector output configuration in a 14-SOIC surface mount package. Manufactured by Texas Instruments, this component is classified as discontinued at DiGi Electronics, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for ongoing design support and procurement.

The 74LS series NAND gate logic family provides standardized pin configurations and electrical characteristics across multiple manufacturers. Substitute parts maintain functional equivalence through matching logic type, circuit count, input configuration, and package form factor.

Substiute Parts

SN74LS38DG4

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1142SN74LS38DG4 Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SN74LS26D

MotorolaIn Stock: 8528SN74LS26D Datasheet

DirectRFQ

SN74LS38D

onsemiIn Stock: 43652SN74LS38D Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

SN74LS03D

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1575SN74LS03D Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the SN74LS38DG4 are qualified based on the following criteria:

Functional Equivalence: All substitute parts maintain identical logic type (NAND Gate), circuit count (4 channels), input configuration (2 inputs per channel), and open collector output feature.

Electrical Compatibility: All substitutes operate within the same supply voltage range (4.75V ~ 5.25V) and meet the same input logic level thresholds (Low: 0.8V, High: 2V).

Package Compatibility: All substitutes use the 14-SOIC surface mount package with identical physical dimensions (0.154", 3.90mm Width), ensuring direct PCB footprint compatibility.

Timing Characteristics: All substitutes maintain the maximum propagation delay specification of 32ns at 5V supply voltage.

Operating Temperature Range: All substitutes support the 0°C ~ 70°C operating temperature range.

Variations in output current specifications and quiescent current do not disqualify substitution when the application load requirements remain within the specified output current limits of the selected substitute.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

SN74LS38D (onsemi) is the manufacturer-recommended substitute. This part maintains identical output current specifications (24mA) and propagation delay characteristics (32ns @ 5V, 45pF) as the original SN74LS38DG4. Although marked as obsolete, it provides the closest electrical match with 43,546 units available in inventory.

SN74LS03D (Texas Instruments) is suitable for applications where output current requirements do not exceed 16mA. This part carries ROHS3 compliance and Last Time Buy status, indicating more recent availability than fully obsolete alternatives. The reduced maximum load capacitance (15pF vs. 45pF) requires verification against specific circuit load conditions.

SN74LS26D (Motorola) is functionally compatible but presents the most significant trade-off in output current capacity (8mA maximum). This part is suitable only for applications with minimal load current requirements. RoHS non-compliance and obsolete status limit its use in new designs subject to environmental regulations.

Selection should prioritize parts meeting RoHS compliance requirements for new designs and applications subject to regulatory constraints. Output current capacity must be verified against actual circuit load specifications before final selection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can SN74LS26D replace SN74LS38DG4 in all applications?

A: SN74LS26D is functionally compatible but has reduced output current capacity (8mA vs. 24mA). Substitution is valid only when circuit load current does not exceed 8mA. Verify actual load requirements before selection.

Q: What is the difference between SN74LS38D and SN74LS03D?

A: Both are 4-channel 2-input NAND gates in 14-SOIC packages. SN74LS38D matches the original output current (24mA) and load capacitance (45pF). SN74LS03D has reduced output current (16mA) and load capacitance (15pF). Select based on circuit load specifications.

Q: Are all substitutes pin-compatible with SN74LS38DG4?

A: Yes. All listed substitutes use the 14-SOIC package with identical pin assignments for 4-channel 2-input NAND gate logic. Direct PCB footprint compatibility is confirmed.

Q: Which substitute has the best availability and compliance status?

A: SN74LS38D (onsemi) offers the highest inventory (43,546 units) and closest electrical match. SN74LS03D (Texas Instruments) provides ROHS3 compliance with Last Time Buy status, suitable for new designs requiring environmental compliance.

Q: Do propagation delay differences affect circuit performance?

A: All substitutes maintain the 32ns maximum propagation delay specification at 5V supply. SN74LS26D and SN74LS03D have reduced load capacitance ratings (15pF vs. 45pF), which may affect performance in high-capacitance load conditions. Verify circuit load capacitance against substitute specifications.

Q: Is RoHS compliance required for my application?

A: RoHS compliance is mandatory for products sold in the European Union and many other regulated markets. SN74LS38DG4 and SN74LS03D are ROHS3 compliant. SN74LS26D and SN74LS38D are RoHS non-compliant. Select accordingly based on regulatory requirements.