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Electronics => Electronics => Topic started by: hazzer123 on January 17, 2008, 07:57:25 AM

Title: What is the point in buffer chips?
Post by: hazzer123 on January 17, 2008, 07:57:25 AM

I have seen many circuits which have buffer chips in them like the 74HC244 (http://www.ortodoxism.ro/datasheets/philips/74HC_HCT244_CNV_2.pdf).

I really don't have a clue what these chips do. They seem to have input pins and output pins, and the output pins just mirror the input ones. I get this idea from the top part of THIS PAGE (http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/Electronic/buffer.html).

Anyone help?

Title: Re: What is the point in buffer chips?
Post by: Admin on January 17, 2008, 08:08:43 AM

A few reasons you'd want to use it.

Basically a buffer keeps one circuit from interfering with another circuit. This eliminates cross talk and electrical noise (which can cause a whole list of potential problems).

Also, sometimes one circuit might send voltages that could damage another circuit, and so a buffer keeps that from happening.

An optical buffer is like the ultimate type.

I've only needed a buffer like once or twice ever . . . I wouldn't worry about it unless you are doing highly sensitive electronics stuff.

Details:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buffer_amplifier

Title: Re: What is the point in buffer chips?
Post by: rgcustodio on January 17, 2008, 11:43:39 AM

Quote

An optical buffer is like the ultimate type.

maybe you're referring to an optoisolator.

Title: Re: What is the point in buffer chips?
Post by: Admin on January 17, 2008, 12:06:27 PM

ya

(I seem to be having terminology issues lately :P)