Question

Conduct an internet search for the datasheet for the SN74HC595N shift register DIP IC. Include proper APA citation for all sources referenced.

Include the following:

• Explanation of how this device “extends” the I/O capabilities of an Arduino or any other microcontroller.
• Explanation of what the Function Table is on the datasheet and how it is used to write programs with the Arduino interfaced to this shift register.
• Describe two applications for which an Arduino based system would benefit from utilizing a shift register.

Answer 1

The SN74HC595N is a simple 8-bit shift register IC. Simply put, this shift register is a device that allows additional inputs or outputs to be added to a microcontroller by converting data between parallel and serial formats. Your chosen microprocessor is able to communicate with the The SN74HC595N using serial information then gathers or outputs information in a parallel (multi-pin) format. Essentially it takes 8 bits from the serial input and then outputs them to 8 pins.

This small DIP packaged IC contains an 8-bit, serial-in parallel-out shift register that feeds an 8-bit D-type storage register with parallel 3-state outputs.

Note: This is a drop-in replacement for the 74HC595 shift register IC and should function just fine in any application the previous version could.

Shift registers come in two basic types, either SIPO, Serial-In-Parallel-Out, or PISO, Parallel-In-Serial-Out. SparkFun carries both types. Here is a SIPO, the 74HC595, and the PISO, the 74HC165. The first type, SIPO, is useful for controlling a large number of outputs, including LEDs, while the latter type, PISO, is good for gathering a large number of inputs, like buttons.

SparkFun carries an easy to use breakout versions for both these chips as well. If you need more than 8 additional I/O lines, you can easily chain multiple shift registers together by connecting the output side of the breakout board to the right side of another board.