onsemi MC74ACT04DR2 Hex Inverter: Datasheet, Application Circuit, and Pinout Configuration
The MC74ACT04DR2 from onsemi is a high-performance hex inverter integrated circuit belonging to the ACT logic family, renowned for its high-speed operation and TTL-compatible input levels. This device contains six independent inverters, making it a fundamental component in a vast array of digital systems for signal conditioning, oscillation, and logic level conversion.
Pinout Configuration
The MC74ACT04DR2 is housed in a standard SOIC-14 package. Its pinout is straightforward and follows a common configuration for hex inverter ICs:
Pins 1, 3, 5, 9, 11, 13 (Inputs): These are the input pins for the six individual inverters (1A through 6A).
Pins 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 (Outputs): These are the corresponding output pins (1Y through 6Y) for each inverter.
Pin 7 (GND): Ground connection.
Pin 14 (VCC): Positive power supply pin. The device typically operates from a 4.5V to 5.5V supply, making it ideal for 5V systems.
Datasheet Key Specifications
Understanding the absolute maximum ratings and electrical characteristics from the datasheet is critical for reliable design:
Supply Voltage (VCC): 7V (absolute max)
Input Voltage (VI): 7V (absolute max)
Propagation Delay (tPD): Typically 4.5 ns at 5V, 25°C, showcasing its high-speed capability.

Output Drive: Can sink/source up to 24 mA, allowing it to drive relatively heavy loads, such as LEDs or other IC inputs.
TTL-Compatible Inputs: A key feature, allowing it to be driven directly by TTL logic levels without requiring additional components.
Operating Temperature Range: -55°C to +125°C, suitable for industrial applications.
Application Circuit Example: Crystal Oscillator
A classic application for a hex inverter like the MC74ACT04DR2 is in building a Pierce crystal oscillator circuit, which provides a stable clock source for microcontrollers and other digital ICs.
1. Circuit Setup: One of the six inverters is used as the active gain element. A crystal is connected between its input (e.g., pin 1) and output (e.g., pin 2).
2. Feedback Resistors: A large-value feedback resistor (e.g., 1 MΩ to 10 MΩ) is connected in parallel to the inverter. This biases the inverter into its linear region of operation, allowing it to act as an amplifier.
3. Load Capacitors: Two load capacitors (C1 and C2, typically in the 10pF to 22pF range) are connected from each crystal terminal to ground. These capacitors, in conjunction with the crystal, determine the oscillation frequency.
4. Output Buffer: The oscillating signal from the first inverter's output is often fed into a second inverter within the same package. This second inverter is used as a buffer to square up the waveform and provide a clean, high-quality logic output for the rest of the system.
This simple yet effective circuit highlights the utility of having multiple gates in a single package.
ICGOODFIND Summary
The onsemi MC74ACT04DR2 is a versatile and robust hex inverter IC that excels in high-speed digital design. Its TTL compatibility, strong output drive, and fast switching speeds make it an excellent choice for applications including clock generation, wave shaping, and as a general-purpose logic building block. When designing, always consult the official onsemi datasheet for the most accurate and detailed information.
Keywords:
MC74ACT04DR2, Hex Inverter, TTL-Compatible, Crystal Oscillator, SOIC-14
