7417 Hex Buffer High Voltage Open Collector IC (DIP)

7417 Hex Buffer High Voltage Open Collector IC (DIP)

The 7417 is a robust hex buffer/inverter IC from the 74xx TTL family that combines six independent gates with open-collector outputs and high-voltage tolerance. Designed for reliable signal buffering, current driving, and logic level shifting, this DIP-14 device is ideal for hobbyists, students, and industry designers who need to interface 5V TTL logic with higher-voltage external loads.

Key Benefits

• Drive higher-voltage devices directly using open-collector outputs and external pull-up resistors.
• Buffer and strengthen digital signals for long traces or noisy environments.
• Perform TTL-to-higher-voltage level shifting without complex circuits.
• Suitable for direct driving of LEDs, relays and transistor stages, reducing component count.

Features

• Six independent buffer/inverter gates in one IC (hex configuration).
• Open-collector outputs for flexible pull-up voltage selection (up to 30V).
• TTL-compatible input thresholds for seamless 5V logic integration.
• Maximum output sink current: 40 mA per gate for driving moderate loads.
• Typical propagation delay: 10 ns for fast switching performance.
• Standard DIP-14 package for easy breadboard and PCB use.
• Low quiescent power consumption for efficient operation.

Specifications

• IC Number: 7417
• Logic Type: Hex buffer/inverter with open-collector outputs
• Number of Gates: 6
• Inputs per Gate: 1
• Operating Voltage (Vcc): 4.75V to 5.25V (typical 5V)
• Maximum Output Voltage (open-collector): 30V
• Output Current (Low, sink): 40 mA (max)
• Input Current (High): 40 µA (max)
• Input Current (Low): -1.6 mA (max)
• Propagation Delay: 10 ns (typical)
• Package Type: DIP-14 (Dual Inline Package)
• Operating Temperature Range: 0°C to +70°C

Typical Applications

• Logic level shifting between TTL logic and higher-voltage devices.
• Driving LEDs, relays, solenoids and transistor inputs directly.
• Digital signal buffering and conditioning for pulse or clock lines.
• Interfacing microcontrollers and logic ICs with external high-voltage loads.
• Educational circuits, prototyping and industrial control interfaces.

Usage Notes and Best Practices

• Because outputs are open-collector, use an appropriate external pull-up resistor to the desired pull-up voltage (max 30V).
• Observe the maximum sink current (40 mA) per output to avoid thermal stress; distribute loads when driving multiple outputs simultaneously.
• Keep Vcc at a stable 5V supply for proper TTL input thresholds and predictable timing characteristics.
• When driving inductive loads such as relays or solenoids, include flyback diodes or snubber circuits to protect the IC and other system components.
• For breadboard prototyping, the DIP-14 package allows quick swaps; consider a socket to prevent repeated solder cycles.

Typical Connection Example

Connect Vcc to 5V and GND to ground. For each output that must drive a higher-voltage load, connect the load between the chosen pull-up voltage and the output pin, and fit a suitable pull-up resistor. Use flyback protection for inductive loads and ensure the total current per package stays within safe limits.

Why Choose the 7417?

The 7417 Hex Buffer provides a simple, reliable way to combine TTL logic compatibility with the ability to switch higher voltages and moderate currents. Its open-collector outputs and DIP-14 footprint make it a versatile component for prototyping, education and practical control applications where level translation and direct drive are required.

Note: Images are for illustration purposes only.