Summary of Channel Analog Multiplexer Demultiplexer
This article explains how to expand microcontroller I/O using the 74HC4067, a 16-channel analog multiplexer/demultiplexer. It functions as a digital rotary switch, directing current between one pin and any of sixteen others. The component operates on 2–6V DC, making it compatible with 3.3V and 5V systems like Arduino and Raspberry Pi, while noting that the similar 74HCT4067 is limited to 4.5–5.5V. Both through-hole and surface mount versions are available.
Parts used in the 74HC4067 Project:
- 74HC4067 16-channel analog multiplexer demultiplexer
- Microcontroller (e.g., Arduino or Raspberry Pi)
- Data sheet for the 74HC4067
- Through-hole version of the IC
- Surface mount version of the IC
- 74HCT4067 (alternative variant mentioned)
Introduction
Now and again there’s a need to expand the I/O capabilities of your chosen micorocontroller, and instead of upgrading you can often use external parts to help solve the problem. One example of this is the 74HC4067 16-channel analog multiplexer demultiplexer.
That’s a mouthful – however in simple form it’s an IC that can direct a flow of current in either direction from one pin to any one of sixteen pins. Another way to think abou it is that you can consider the 74HC4067 to be a digital replacement to those rotary switches that allow you to select one of sixteen positions.
Don’t let that put you off, it’s just what we had in stock at the time. The part itself is available in through-hole and surface mount versions.
Using the 74HC4067
At this point you should download the data sheet, as we refer to it through the course of the article. The first thing to note is that the 74HC4067 can operate on voltages between 2 and 6V DC, which allows use with 3.3V and 5V microcontrollers and boards such as Arduino and Raspberry Pi. If for some reason you have the 74HCT4067 it can only work on 4.5~5.5V DC. Next – consider the pinout diagram from the data sheet:
For more detail: Channel Analog Multiplexer Demultiplexer
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What is the 74HC4067?
It is an IC that directs current flow from one pin to any one of sixteen pins, acting as a digital replacement for rotary switches. -
Can the 74HC4067 work with 3.3V microcontrollers?
Yes, it can operate on voltages between 2 and 6V DC, which includes 3.3V systems. -
What voltage range does the 74HCT4067 require?
The 74HCT4067 can only work on a voltage range of 4.5 to 5.5V DC. -
Are there different package types for this chip?
Yes, the part is available in both through-hole and surface mount versions. -
How many channels does the 74HC4067 support?
The device supports 16 channels. -
Is the 74HC4067 suitable for expanding I/O capabilities?
Yes, it allows users to expand the I/O capabilities of a chosen microcontroller without upgrading the board.
