The interrupt output (INT) signals the host controller when any input state changes, reducing polling overhead. Typical applications include industrial control panels, server motherboards, and consumer appliances where extra GPIO is needed without adding package pins on the main MCU.
Supply range and logic-level compatibility
The 2.5V to 6V supply range lets the PCF8574DWR operate on both 3.3V and 5V rails without a level shifter. On a 5V bus the I²C signals are 5V-tolerant; at 3.3V the device still meets the 100 kHz clock specification. The push-pull output structure can sink 25 mA per pin, enough to drive an LED directly, but source current is limited to 1 mA — so for sourcing loads like relay coils, use the sink side or add a transistor buffer.
Housed in a 16-SOIC package with 7.50 mm body width (0.295"), the PCF8574DWR uses the wider SOIC-16 footprint, not the narrower 3.9 mm version. Surface-mount assembly is straightforward — standard reflow profile for MSL 1 parts applies.
For volume commitments or long-term supply agreements, the active status gives confidence that the part will be available for new designs.
