9.1 Application Information

The SN74HC04-Q1 can be used to add an additional stage to a counter with an external flip-flop. Because counters use a negative edge trigger, the flip-flop's clock input must be inverted to provide this function. This function only requires one of the six available inverters in the SN74HC04-Q1 device, so the remaining channels can be used for other applications needing an inverted signal or improved signal integrity. Unused inputs must be terminated at V_CC or GND. Unused outputs can be left floating.