Diodes Incorporated PI3CLS9606HKEX

Overview

PI3CLS9606HKEX from Diodes Incorporated is a dual-supply, bidirectional I³C/I²C-bus voltage-level translator with auto-direction sensing, supporting up to 12.5 MHz I³C and standard I²C/SMBus protocols. It features two independent 1-bit bidirectional data ports (A1/A2 and B1/B2), active-HIGH OE control referenced to V_CCA, and dual supply rails (V_CCA/V_CCB) operating from 0.72 V to 1.98 V with V_CCA ≤ V_CCB. It enables level translation between mixed-voltage SoC peripherals in mobile, IoT sensor hubs, and embedded controllers.

For engineers reviewing the PI3CLS9606HKEX datasheet, PI3CLS9606HKEX pinout, PI3CLS9606HKEX application, or PI3CLS9606HKEX equivalent, key selection criteria include its 12.5 MHz I³C support, I_OFF-enabled partial power-down capability, ±1 μA max leakage at 125°C, 2.3 ns min propagation delay (V_CCA=1.8 V, V_CCB=1.8 V), and DFN1410-8L (HK) package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The PI3CLS9606HKEX implements an auto-sensing bidirectional translation architecture that dynamically detects signal direction without external control logic-critical for I²C's open-drain topology and I³C's push-pull/OD hybrid signaling. Its internal circuitry ensures lock-up free operation across voltage combinations where V_CCA ≤ V_CCB, and supports both open-drain and push-pull bus configurations.

It integrates I_OFF protection to disable outputs during power-down, preventing backflow current when either V_CCA or V_CCB is unpowered. The OE input-referenced to V_CCA but tolerant up to V_CCB (≤1.98 V)-enables system-level enable/disable sequencing independent of supply ramp order.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: DFN1410-8L (HK), 1.4 mm × 1.0 mm, 0.5 mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected). Compliant with IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020 moisture sensitivity level 1 (MSL1).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar I²C/I³C bidirectional level translation applications.

Compared with PCA9306DP and TCA9617A, PI3CLS9606HKEX uniquely delivers 12.5 MHz I³C support, sub-1 V operation, I_OFF-enabled power gating, and true auto-direction sensing-making it the only option for energy-constrained, mixed-voltage I³C systems requiring zero-firmware translation control.

Availability

PI3CLS9606HKEX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile sensor hubs, automotive cabin controllers, industrial IoT edge nodes, and server baseboard management requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and low-power operating conditions.

Supply support for PI3CLS9606HKEX 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

Diodes Incorporated is a global manufacturer of discrete semiconductors and analog ICs, specializing in high-performance, high-reliability solutions for power management, signal integrity, and connectivity applications.

The PI3CLS9606HKEX belongs to Diodes' Precision Interface Solutions product line, designed specifically for next-generation mixed-voltage system interconnects-including I²C, I³C, SMBus, and PMBus-where ultra-low power, small footprint, and robust partial-power-down behavior are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported I³C bus speed for PI3CLS9606HKEX?

The PI3CLS9606HKEX supports I³C data rates up to 12.5 MHz under recommended operating conditions (V_CCA = V_CCB = 1.8 V, T_A = −40°C to +85°C, C_L = 15 pF). This is verified in the Dynamic Characteristics table (DS44908 Rev 3-2, page 7) and enables full compatibility with I³C Basic and I³C MIPI specifications for high-bandwidth sensor interfaces.

Can V_CCA and V_CCB be set to the same voltage?

Yes-V_CCA and V_CCB may be equal (e.g., both at 1.2 V), provided V_CCA ≤ V_CCB is satisfied. This configuration is valid for same-voltage domain isolation or noise decoupling between A- and B-side buses, and maintains full functionality including I_OFF and OE control as specified in the Recommended Operating Conditions table (page 4).

Is the OE pin required to be driven, or can it be tied permanently HIGH?

The OE pin may be permanently tied HIGH (to V_CCA) if continuous translation is required. However, tying OE to GND disables all I/Os into high-impedance state-essential during power-up/power-down sequencing. Leaving OE floating is prohibited per datasheet Section "Enable and Disable"; doing so risks undefined output states and potential bus contention.

Does PI3CLS9606HKEX support push-pull I²C drivers?

Yes-the PI3CLS9606HKEX explicitly supports both open-drain and push-pull I²C/I³C drivers, as stated in the Description section (page 1) and Application Information (page 11). Its internal architecture handles bidirectional signal flow regardless of driver type, eliminating the need for external series resistors or topology-specific configuration.