most of the time, pin compatible means that
can be used interchangeably.
But there are exceptions. 74Cxx chips are CMOS versions of 74xx series, they are pin compatible. But CMOS input doesn't need a biasing current, while TTL (BJT) needs. Circuit built for 74Cxx chips may have problem with 74xx, if not carefully designed.
But there are exceptions. 74Cxx chips are CMOS versions of 74xx series, they are pin compatible. But CMOS input doesn't need a biasing current, while TTL (BJT) needs. Circuit built for 74Cxx chips may have problem with 74xx, if not carefully designed.