SN54HC595: Testing Shift Register

Hi Viraj,

To test SIPO devices:

1. Power them up to VCC (between 2-6 volts)
2. Give the devices your clock signals and serial input. You can give both clock pins the same clock signal and that should be fine for testing purposes.
   1. Make sure output enable pin is pulled low so that the outputs change according to the inputs.
3. Probe the outputs and the clocks and see if they change according to the serial data you are feeding the part
   1. On this step, test setting output enable high or low to make sure outputs enter three state, as well as the direct clear input to see if the outputs clear appropriately or not.

To test PISO devices:

1. Power to VCC, 2-6 volts
2. Give the devices your clock signals and all of your parallel inputs.
   1. When you are ready, set SH high to enable inputs.
3. Probe the serial output pins and see if data changes accordingly. 
   1. Test the clear pin to make sure the outputs clear upon the clear pin going high.

Sorry that this is not an extremely detailed description, but I recommend that you just read through the datasheet, especially the detailed description sections, as well as the recommended operating conditions. In general, make sure all inputs don't go above VCC or below 0 V and you should be fine.