Package and mounting
The SN74HC251N is a single 8-to-1 multiplexer in a 16-pin DIP package. It selects one of eight data inputs and routes it to a single output, controlled by a three-bit address.
Output drive — what 7.8 mA means for your load
The high and low output current is rated at 7.8 mA each. That's enough to drive standard CMOS inputs and low-power logic, but don't plan on lighting an LED or pulling a relay coil directly — you'll want a buffer or transistor stage. On a repair bench, if the board's output trace looks clean but the next gate isn't toggling, check that the load doesn't exceed this figure.
Lifecycle and supply posture
The SN74HC251N carries an Active product status and is ROHS3 compliant.
