Quite some time ago I created a simple TTL-I.C.-logic tester based on an Arduino and a Python script.

Currently it only tests a limited set of different I.C.s from the 7400 series, having 14 and 16 pins.

The chip-definition is in a separate JSON-based text file, adding new I.C.s is as simple as creating a Boolean expression for its output pins.

The tester prototype hardware part was build on an Arduino UNO, but moved to an Arduino Mega 2560.

The software part is a +300 lines Python 3 script and a text/JSON based I.C.-definition list.

The original algorithm was based on boolean expressions generating all possible input patterns, but a direct imperative set- and expect-pattern list is added.

The PCB for a Arduino Mega 2560 based shield is now populated and being tested. It should allow testing IC's with 14, 16, 20, 24 and 28 pins and power at the highest pin number.

Details

Current (v1.2) I.C.-list (actually tested): 4093, 40106, 7400, 7402, 7404, 7405, 7406, 7407, 7408, 7409, 7410, 7411, 7413, 7420, 7421, 7427, 7430,7432, 7433, 7438, 7451, 7486, 74125, 74132, 74138, 74139, 74153, 74240, 74244, 74257, 74365, 74367, 8T97

See: https://github.com/electrickery/logicTester

What the Python script does:

1. find the I.C. definition in the library

2. send the config to the Arduino

3. loop through:

 generate a bit pattern for all the exercise pins

 fill the query-template with the exercise logic levels

 fill the expected result template with exercise logic levels

 calculate the values for the query pins (convert to Python logic expression and evaluate)

 fill the expected result template with query logic levels

 send the query to the Arduino

 retrieve the response from the Arduino

 compare the expected result with the actual result

4. declare result and exit

New for version 1.3 are minimal power switching and Arduino only debugging commands. Note that the shown N8T97 is 44 years old and still working. 

(The logic probe is an old Elektor design)

This project was reposted with the permission of the author. If you are interested in this project and want to know more, Please check the original article: Simple TTL logic tester | Hackaday.io

And if you want to explore more projects, please follow the author: fjkraan (Hackaday). He has many wonderful projects and is an excellent maker. Enjoy it! :)