Hey guys,

I remember reading somewhere that a general rule for circuit design involving logic chips is that all inputs, regardless of whether a particular input is used or not, should be connected to something (GND or Vdd). What about outputs? What if I don't plan to use all of the outputs on a particular chip? Can I leave these open?

 

Outputs do not matter. Some families, such as TTL, will assume a logic level on open inputs, Others can't.

 

You DO NOT connect unused outputs to VCC, VDD or GND. You will end up consuming excessive current and in danger of blowing your chip.