Power
PCF8574
I2C GPIO expander often used in LCD backpacks and small IO expansion modules.
Best For
Projects needing IO expansion and I2C with a commonly available power part.
Avoid If
You need production-grade certainty without checking the exact module vendor, pinout, and library maintenance status.
Quick Decision Notes
PCF8574 is indexed as a power part from NXP. ChipScout tracks it by practical maker-facing dimensions: interfaces, library readiness, estimated price, field-level sources, and whether the page is strong enough for selection rather than only lookup.
Technical Specifications
Common Use Cases
- Maker prototypes
- Low-cost modules
- Educational hardware
Known Issues
- Breakout boards may use different pin labels or regulator choices
- Clone modules can differ from the original datasheet part
Interfaces and Library Support
Every field is meant to be source-backed. Corrections should include a datasheet URL, vendor page, module photo, or reproducible library test.
Submit correctionSource Resources
Pinout Table
Pinout is not yet source-verified. Use the table as an integration checklist, then confirm exact pins against the module vendor page before wiring hardware.
Common Wiring
Power the module from a rail that matches the breakout board, not just the bare IC.
Connect ground between the controller, sensor/module, and external power supply.
Use pull-ups appropriate for the board voltage; many modules already include them.
Keep wiring short for breadboard prototypes and lower bus speed if unstable.
Arduino Example
#include <Wire.h>
void setup() {
Serial.begin(115200);
Wire.begin();
Serial.println("PCF8574 I2C wiring smoke test");
}
void loop() {
// Replace this with the maintained PCF8574 library call.
Serial.println("Check PCF8574 on the I2C bus, then read a sample.");
delay(1000);
}MicroPython Example
from machine import Pin, I2C
import time
i2c = I2C(0, scl=Pin(1), sda=Pin(0), freq=100000)
print("PCF8574 I2C devices:", i2c.scan())
while True:
# Replace with the maintained PCF8574 driver call.
print("read PCF8574 sample")
time.sleep(1)Recommended Development Boards
Low-cost Wi-Fi/BLE board with enough interfaces for most sensors and modules.
Good baseline for beginner wiring and library validation.
Practical MicroPython target for I2C, SPI, UART, PWM, and ADC experiments.
Alternative Model Reasons
Common Questions
What is PCF8574 best used for?
Projects needing IO expansion and I2C with a commonly available power part.
Does PCF8574 support Arduino or MicroPython?
PCF8574 has verified Arduino support and verified MicroPython support.
What interfaces does PCF8574 use?
PCF8574 lists I2C; wireless support is no wireless protocol.
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