onsemi MC14081BDR2 Quad 2-Input AND Gate: Datasheet, Pinout, and Application Circuit Guide
The MC14081BDR2 from onsemi is a cornerstone integrated circuit for digital logic design. As a member of the venerable 4000-series CMOS logic family, this IC contains four independent 2-input AND gates in a single 14-pin package. Its ability to operate over a wide voltage range and its high noise immunity make it a versatile and reliable choice for a vast array of digital applications, from simple logic gating to complex control systems.
This guide provides a detailed overview of the MC14081BDR2, covering its key specifications from the datasheet, pinout configuration, and a practical application circuit to get you started.
Datasheet Overview and Key Specifications
The datasheet for the MC14081BDR2 provides all the necessary electrical and operational characteristics. Key specifications include:
Supply Voltage Range (VDD): 3 V to 18 V. This wide range allows for compatibility with various power supply levels, including common 5V and 3.3V systems, though with level-shifting considerations for the latter.
Logic Family: CMOS. This offers significant advantages, including extremely low power consumption in static conditions, high noise immunity (typically ~45% of VDD), and a wide operational voltage range.
High-Level Output Current (IOH): -4.2 mA (min at VDD = 10V)
Low-Level Output Current (IOL): 4.2 mA (min at VDD = 10V). These drive capabilities are sufficient for interfacing with other CMOS inputs, LEDs, or transistors.
Propagation Delay: Typically 90 ns (with VDD = 10V and CL = 50 pF). This is slower than modern 74-series logic but is more than adequate for many control and non-high-speed computing applications.
Operating Temperature Range: -55°C to +125°C. This makes it suitable for industrial and automotive environments.
Package: SOIC-14. This surface-mount package is compact and designed for modern PCB assembly processes.
Pinout Configuration
Understanding the pinout is crucial for circuit design. The MC14081BDR2 in the SOIC-14 package has the following pin configuration:
Pins 1, 2, 13: Inputs and Output for Gate 1 (A1, B1, Y1)
Pins 3, 4, 5: Inputs and Output for Gate 2 (A2, B2, Y2)
Pins 6, 8, 9: Inputs and Output for Gate 3 (A3, B3, Y3)
Pins 10, 11, 12: Inputs and Output for Gate 4 (A4, B4, Y4)
Pin 7: Ground (VSS). The negative supply terminal.

Pin 14: Positive Supply (VDD). The positive supply voltage is connected here.
The logic function for each gate is the standard AND operation: The output (Y) is HIGH only if ALL inputs (A, B) are HIGH.
Application Circuit Guide: Simple LED Enable Switch
A common use for a single gate within the MC14081B is to create a gated or enabled signal. The following circuit uses one AND gate to control an LED based on two input signals.
Components Required:
MC14081BDR2 IC
Power Supply (e.g., 5V or 9V)
Two input switches (SW1, SW2)
One LED
One current-limiting resistor (e.g., 220Ω to 1kΩ, depending on VDD)
Two pull-down resistors (e.g., 10kΩ)
Circuit Operation:
1. Connect VDD (Pin 14) to the positive power rail and VSS (Pin 7) to ground.
2. Connect one input (e.g., Pin 1, A1) to a switch (SW1) tied to VDD. Connect a 10kΩ pull-down resistor from this pin to ground. This ensures the input is at a defined LOW logic level when the switch is open.
3. Connect the second input (e.g., Pin 2, B1) to another switch (SW2) configured identically with its own pull-down resistor.
4. Connect the output (Pin 3, Y1) to the anode of an LED.
5. Connect the cathode of the LED to ground through a current-limiting resistor (e.g., 220Ω).
How It Works:
The LED will only turn ON when both input switches are closed (HIGH logic level). If either or both switches are open (LOW logic level), the AND gate's output will be LOW, and the LED will remain off. This demonstrates the fundamental gating function where one switch can act as a master enable for a signal from the other switch.
ICGOODFIND: The onsemi MC14081BDR2 is a fundamental and robust quad AND gate IC. Its wide operating voltage range, high noise immunity, and low power consumption make it an excellent choice for designers working on industrial control systems, automotive electronics, or any project requiring reliable basic logic functions. While not suited for high-speed applications, its versatility and durability within the CMOS 4000 series ensure its continued relevance in electronic design.
Keywords: CMOS Logic, AND Gate, Wide Voltage Range, SOIC-14, Digital IC
