74HC244 74244 Octal Buffers & Line Driver IC
The 74HC244 / 74244 Octal Buffer & Line Driver IC is a high-speed, CMOS logic chip designed for driving high-capacitance loads and buffering digital signals across data buses. This IC features eight non-inverting buffers with 3-state outputs, split into two 4-bit groups, allowing for flexible enable control of each section.
Commonly found in microprocessor and microcontroller-based designs, the 74HC244 isolates bus lines, prevents loading issues, and enhances signal integrity — especially when working with components like the ATmega328P, PIC16F887, and Arduino boards.
Its low power consumption and high-speed switching characteristics make it suitable for buffering data in memory address lines, interfacing with peripheral devices, and bus driving in embedded systems. The IC is also often used in educational projects, development boards, and custom digital circuit designs.
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⚙️ Technical Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| IC Type | Octal Buffer / Line Driver |
| Logic Family | 74HC / 74 Series |
| Number of Channels | 8 (Octal) |
| Output Type | 3-State (Tri-state) |
| Input Type | CMOS Logic |
| Voltage Range | 2V – 6V (Typically 5V) |
| Propagation Delay | ~13 ns at 5V |
| Package Type | DIP-20 |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +85°C |
| Current Drive | ±6 mA |
💡 Use Cases & Applications
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✅ Bus interfacing in microcontroller and processor systems
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✅ Memory address decoding and buffering
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✅ Signal level shifting and data isolation
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✅ Driving LED or display multiplexing circuits
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✅ Useful in industrial automation and I/O control systems
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✅ Noise isolation in long PCB traces or shared bus systems
🛠️ Pair With & Related Categories
🎥 YouTube Tutorial
👉 Watch: 74HC244 / 74244 Buffer IC Overview & Circuit Use
⚠️ Precautions
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Always match voltage levels across bus and I/O devices to avoid damage.
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Don’t leave enable pins floating; connect them to defined logic levels.
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Protect from ESD during handling and soldering.
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Use bypass capacitors close to power pins for noise reduction.
🛒 Summary
The 74HC244 / 74244 Octal Buffer IC is a reliable and efficient solution for signal buffering and data line driving in digital systems. Whether you’re working on embedded projects, building logic trainers, or engineering professional control panels, this IC ensures data integrity and low latency in high-speed designs.
Available now at Electroway — your source for quality electronics components and tools.
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