C4050

C4050 is a hex non-inverting buffer integrated circuit in the 4000-series CMOS logic family. It contains six independent buffer gates, each delivering a buffered version of its input to the corresponding output without inversion. The device is commonly used to buffer digital signals, isolate stages, and perform simple level shifting between voltage domains.

Electrical characteristics and operation are typical of 4000-series CMOS devices. The C4050 generally operates over a wide supply range, commonly from about 3 V up to around 15 V, though exact limits depend on the specific variant. It features high input impedance, low static power consumption, and relatively moderate propagation delays that depend on supply voltage and load. The device is intended for digital buffering and does not include enable or tri-state controls on standard versions. Outputs are designed to drive multiple CMOS or similar inputs, but not large, low-impedance loads.

Pinout and packaging: In the common 14-pin DIP version, pin 14 is Vcc and pin 7 is Vss (ground); the part is also available in various surface-mount packages such as SOIC and TSSOP.

Common uses: The C4050 is often employed for level shifting between different logic families, buffering sources with high capacitive loads, and increasing fan-out to multiple inputs. It is useful for isolating sensors or analog front-ends from subsequent digital circuitry, as long as the signals remain within the device’s operating voltage range.

Vendors and variants: The C4050 label is used by multiple manufacturers for hex buffer devices in the 4000-series, including variants such as CD4050, HC4050, and other CMOS implementations. While specifications vary, the core function remains a six-channel, non-inverting buffer.