Experience with 74hc595

But note that they say "stressing the parts to these levels is not recommended." The other thing to note is what they use for test conditions on other specs. I was looking at NXP's 74HC595 datasheet, and while their "limiting value" is ±35mA (section 8), all the testing is done at < 10mA (section 10).

Similarly, we have the perpetual debate regarding MCUs. For example, the ATmega328P datasheet says 40mA per GPIO pin is the "Absolute Maximum Rating" with strong words about not actually operating it that way. Test conditions are 20mA at Vcc=5V and 10mA at 3V.

Do people operate parts at the Absolute Maximum Ratings and get away with it? Yes, but that does not make it A Good Idea. The question is how long will it continue to work. You've got to ask yourself one question: "Do I feel lucky?" Well, do ya, punk? :smiley: