The SN74LV8T164-EP belongs to TI's LVxT family of logic devices with integrated voltage level translation. This family of devices is designed with reduced input voltage thresholds to support up-translation, and inputs tolerant of signals with up to 5.5V levels to support down-translation. For proper functionality, input signals must remain at or above the specified V_IH(MIN) level for a HIGH input state, and at or below the specified V_IL(MAX) for a LOW input state. Figure 7-1 shows the typical V_IH and V_IL levels for the LVxT family of devices, as well as the voltage levels for standard CMOS devices for comparison.

The inputs are high impedance and are typically modeled as a resistor in parallel with the input capacitance given in the Electrical Characteristics. The worst-case resistance is calculated with the maximum input voltage, given in the Absolute Maximum Ratings, and the maximum input leakage current, given in the Electrical Characteristics, using Ohm's law (R = V ÷ I).

Input signals must transition between valid logic states quickly, as the input transition rate in the Recommended Operating Conditions table define. Failing to meet this specification results in excessive power consumption and can cause oscillations. More details can be found in the Implications of Slow or Floating CMOS Inputs application note.

Do not leave inputs floating at any time during operation. Unused inputs must be terminated at a valid high or low voltage level. If a system is not actively driving an input at all times, then a pull-up or pull-down resistor can be added to provide a valid input voltage during these times. The resistor value depends on multiple factors; however, a 10kΩ resistor is recommended and typically meets all requirements.