JEDEC – The time interval between the application of a signal at a specified input terminal and a subsequent active transition at another specified input terminal.

TI – The time interval between the application of a signal that is maintained at a specified input terminal and a consecutive active transition at another specified input terminal.

NOTE: 1. The setup time is the time interval between two signal events and is determined by the system in which the digital circuit operates. A minimum value is specified that is the shortest interval for which correct operation of the digital circuit is specified.

NOTE: 2. The setup time may have a negative value, in which case the minimum limit defines the longest interval (between the active transition and the application of the other signal) for which correct operation of the digital circuit is specified.

Setup time is tested by switching an input to a fixed logic level at a specified time before the transition of the other input (see Figure below). The device passes if the outputs switch to their expected logic levels and fails if they do not. Setup times are not checked simultaneously with other inputs or other recommended operating conditions. For additional information about setup time, refer to the TI application report, Metastable Response in 5-V Logic Circuits, literature number SDYA006.