14-DIP hex inverter for breadboard and legacy designs
The SN74HCU04N is a Texas Instruments hex inverter containing six independent inverter gates in a single 14-pin DIP package. Each gate accepts one input and provides the inverted logic output, making this a workhorse for signal conditioning, oscillator circuits, and general-purpose logic inversion on through-hole boards. Operating from a 2V to 6V supply, the device spans both 3.3V and 5V logic rails without a separate level translator. The 2 µA maximum quiescent current keeps the static power draw negligible in battery-powered or always-on sections.
Parametric fit for signal-chain inversion
Each output can source or sink 5.2 mA, sufficient to drive a standard CMOS logic input or a low-power LED indicator. The 14 ns maximum propagation delay at 6V and 50 pF load sets the timing budget for clocked systems — at lower supply voltages the delay increases, so verify the worst-case path in mixed-voltage designs. Input logic thresholds are supply-dependent: low level from 0.5V to 1.8V, high level from 1.7V to 4.8V across the 2V-6V range. This means the gate reliably interprets a 3.3V CMOS output as a logic high when running on a 5V rail, but a 1.8V logic signal may not reach the high threshold at the same supply — check the input swing against the actual VCC. Rated for -40°C to 85°C operation, the SN74HCU04N covers industrial temperature environments — control cabinets, telecom shelters, and outdoor equipment enclosures where the ambient stays within that band.
Package and board integration
Housed in a 14-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) through-hole package with the supplier device package designation 14-PDIP, this part is breadboard-friendly and suited for prototyping, legacy board rework, or designs where hand-assembly is preferred over surface-mount. The 0.100-inch pin pitch matches standard perfboard and DIP sockets. Supplied in tube packaging — the standard DIP carrier for automated insertion or manual handling. No reel or tape options are listed for this ordering code.
Lifecycle and compliance
The part belongs to the 74HCU series — a unbuffered version of the 74HC family, meaning the inverter stages lack the extra gain stage found in standard 74HC parts. This gives a more linear transfer characteristic useful in crystal oscillator and analog-type applications where the unbuffered response is preferred.
Sourcing and availability
The SN74HCU04N is sourced through authorized distribution channels. Quoted to order against your BOM quantity; availability and current pricing are confirmed at RFQ time. No official second-source or pin-compatible cross-reference is recorded from the manufacturer.