The CD74HC595 device contains an 8-bit serial-in, parallel-out shift register that feeds an 8-bit D-type storage register. The storage register has parallel 3-state outputs. Separate clocks are provided for both the shift and storage registers. The shift register has a direct overriding clear (SRCLR) input, serial (SER) input, and serial output for cascading. When the output-enable (OE) input is high, the outputs are in the high-impedance state.

Both the shift register clock (SRCLK) and storage register clock (RCLK) are positive-edge triggered. If both clocks are connected together, the shift register always is one clock pulse ahead of the storage register.