74HC4051 8-Channel Analog Multiplexer/Demultiplexer Breakout Board

74HC4051 8-Channel Analog Multiplexer/Demultiplexer Breakout Board is a versatile high-speed CMOS device designed to expand the input or output capabilities of your microcontroller by switching eight different channels to a single common line. This module functions effectively as a digitally controlled electronic switch that handles both analog and digital signals within the power supply range. Consequently, you can connect eight sensors to just one analog-to-digital converter (ADC) pin on your Arduino or ESP32. Furthermore, the bidirectional nature of the 74HC4051 allows it to operate as a demultiplexer, routing a single input to any of the eight available outputs. Therefore, this breakout board provides an incredibly cost-effective solution for complex projects requiring extensive I/O expansion without upgrading to a larger processor.

Key Features:

• Wide Signal Range: The board handles analog signals with amplitudes up to 6 V_P-P, supporting a broad variety of sensor outputs.
• Low “ON” Resistance: Features low internal resistance during channel activation, which ensures minimal signal distortion and voltage drop.
• Bidirectional Operation: Signals flow in both directions, allowing the module to switch inputs to a common output or a common input to multiple outputs.
• Digital Logic Control: Three binary select inputs (S0, S1, S2) control the channel selection, requiring only three GPIO pins to manage eight channels.
• Enable Input: Includes an active-low Enable (É) pin that allows you to disconnect all channels simultaneously for bus-sharing applications.

Technical Specifications:

• Supply Voltage (V_CC): 2.0 V to 6.0 V
• Analog Input Voltage Range: V_EE to V_CC (Typically GND to V_CC)
• “ON” Resistance (R_ON): ≈ 80 Ω (at V_CC = 4.5 V)
• Switching Time (t_pd): ≈ 15 ns to 30 ns
• Logic Level Compatibility: CMOS and TTL compatible inputs
• Operating Temperature: −40°C to +125°C

Mechanical Specifications:

• PCB Material: High-quality FR-4 glass epoxy
• Mounting: Standard 2.54 mm (0.1″) pitch headers for breadboard compatibility
• Finish: Lead-free solder finish with clear silk-screen labeling for easy identification

Dimensions:

• Board Length: ≈ 19.1 mm
• Board Width: ≈ 15.3 mm
• Total Height: ≈ 3.0 mm (without headers)
• Weight: ≈ 2.5 g

Pinout and Wiring:

• VCC: Connect to the positive power supply (2 V to 6 V).
• GND / VEE: Connect both to the system ground for single-supply operation.
• S0, S1, S2: Connect these binary select pins to three digital GPIO pins on your controller to choose channels 0 through 7.
• Z (Common): This is the common I/O pin. Connect this to your microcontroller’s ADC pin or signal source.
• Y0 – Y7: These are the eight independent I/O channels for connecting your sensors or actuators.
• E (Enable): Connect to GND to enable the board; however, pulling this pin High will disable all switches.

Datasheet Reference:

• Download 74HC4051 Datasheet

Commonly Used in:

• Analog Data Acquisition: Reading multiple potentiometers or analog sensors using a single ADC pin.
• Audio Routing: Switching line-level audio signals between different outputs in DIY synthesizers or mixers.
• Digital Signal Multiplexing: Managing multiple serial communication lines or logic signals.

Applications:

• Sensor Arrays: Scaling environmental monitoring systems where numerous analog sensors require polling.
• User Interface Design: Managing large button matrices or control panels with limited GPIO availability.
• Test Equipment: Routing various test points within a circuit to a single measurement instrument.

Equivalent Models:

• CD74HC4051: The Texas Instruments equivalent offering the same 8-channel multiplexing capabilities.
• HEF4051B: A standard 4000 series CMOS version, however, it typically operates at higher voltage levels with slower speeds.
• MAX4617: A high-performance equivalent from Maxim Integrated featuring even lower “ON” resistance.

Package Includes:

• 1 x 74HC4051 8-Channel Analog Multiplexer/Demultiplexer Breakout Board
• 1 x Set of Male Header Pins (Unsoldered)