These octal buffers and line drivers are designed specifically to improve both the performance and density of 3-state memory address drivers, clock drivers, and bus-oriented receivers and transmitters. Together with the SN54ABT240, SN74ABT240A, and 'ABT244A, these devices provide the choice of selected combinations of inverting and noninverting outputs, symmetrical active-low output-enable () inputs, and complementary OE and inputs.

To ensure the high-impedance state during power up or power down, should be tied to V_CC through a pullup resistor; the minimum value of the resistor is determined by the current-sinking capability of the driver. OE should be tied to GND through a pulldown resistor; the minimum value of the resistor is determined by the current-sourcing capability of the driver.