Diodes Incorporated PI3C3384QEX

Overview

PI3C3384QEX from Pericom Semiconductor is a 2.5V/3.3V, 10-bit, 2-port bus switch with near-zero propagation delay (0.25 ns), 5 Ω typical on-resistance, and 400+ MHz bandwidth, used for high-speed data path switching in hot-insertion-capable backplane and docking interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the PI3C3384QEX datasheet, PI3C3384QEX pinout, PI3C3384QEX application, or PI3C3384QEX equivalent, key selection criteria include rail-to-rail 2.5V/3.3V operation, 5V I/O tolerance, independent dual 5-bit bus enable control, and QSOP-24 packaging for compact board layout in space-constrained embedded systems.

Technical Context

The PI3C3384QEX implements two independent 5-bit bidirectional analog bus switches controlled by active-low BEA and BEB signals, enabling selective connection of Bus A (A0–A9) and Bus B (B0–B9) segments without added propagation delay or ground bounce. Each switch exhibits <5 Ω R_ON at V_CC = 2.5V and supports 5V-tolerant I/O regardless of supply voltage.

Its architecture eliminates logic-level translation: signal integrity is preserved via passive FET-based switching, with no internal latching, clocking, or level-shifting circuitry-making it suitable for transparent, low-jitter interconnect between FPGA I/O banks, ASIC buses, and peripheral modules operating at mixed voltage domains.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PI3C3384QEX is housed in a Pb-free, green 24-pin QSOP package (150-mil width), with 0.635 mm pitch, 3.99 mm body width, and JEDEC MO-137B/AE compliant footprint.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bus switching applications.

Compared with SN74CBT3384CPWR and PI3CHD3245LEX, the PI3C3384QEX uniquely balances 2.5V/3.3V dual-supply operation, independent 5-bit enable control, and sub-5Ω R_ON, making it optimal for segmented parallel bus architectures requiring voltage flexibility and hot-plug robustness.

Availability

PI3C3384QEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for PCIe interposers, industrial backplanes, DDR2 subsystems, and docking station designs requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for PI3C3384QEX includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Pericom Semiconductor was a fabless provider of high-speed interface and signal integrity solutions, acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2016; its portfolio emphasizes low-latency, low-distortion analog switching and timing products.

The PI3C3384QEX belongs to Pericom's high-bandwidth bus switch family, engineered specifically for hot-insertion-capable parallel bus architectures in telecom, computing, and industrial equipment where signal transparency and voltage domain bridging are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for PI3C3384QEX?

The PI3C3384QEX operates reliably from –40°C to +85°C ambient temperature with power applied. Its storage temperature range extends from –65°C to +150°C, supporting industrial-grade thermal cycling and long-term warehouse storage without performance degradation.

Can PI3C3384QEX be used with 2.5V and 3.3V simultaneously on different buses?

No-PI3C3384QEX uses a single VCC pin for both Bus A and Bus B switching elements. It supports either 2.5V or 3.3V operation, but not simultaneous dual-supply voltages. Both buses must share the same supply rail to ensure consistent R_ON and timing behavior.

Is PI3C3384QEX pin-compatible with earlier PI3C3384 variants?

Yes-the PI3C3384QEX shares identical pinout, electrical characteristics, and functional behavior with the base PI3C3384QE and PI3C3384Q parts. The "X" suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging only; no functional or mechanical differences exist.

Does PI3C3384QEX require external pull-up or pull-down resistors on BEA/BEB inputs?

No-BEA and BEB inputs have internal weak pull-downs (IIL ≤ ±1 µA at GND), ensuring defined LOW state when unconnected. External resistors are unnecessary unless specific timing or noise immunity requirements dictate stronger biasing in high-noise environments.