Input signals must cross V_IL(max) to be considered a logic LOW, and V_IH(min) to be considered a logic HIGH. Do not exceed the maximum input voltage range found in the Absolute Maximum Ratings.

Unused inputs must be terminated to either V_CC or ground. The unused inputs can be directly terminated if the input is completely unused, or they can be connected with a pull-up or pull-down resistor if the input will be used sometimes, but not always. A pull-up resistor is used for a default state of HIGH, and a pull-down resistor is used for a default state of LOW. The drive current of the controller, leakage current into the SN74HC165B-EP (as specified in the Electrical Characteristics), and the desired input transition rate limits the resistor size. A 10-kΩ resistor value is often used due to these factors.

The SN74HC165B-EP has CMOS inputs and thus requires fast input transitions to operate correctly, as defined in the Recommended Operating Conditions table. Slow input transitions can cause oscillations, additional power consumption, and reduction in device reliability.

Refer to the Feature Description section for additional information regarding the inputs for this device.