Diodes Incorporated PI74VCX16241AE

Overview

PI74VCX16241AE from Pericom Semiconductor is a 16-bit 3-state buffer/driver IC designed for memory address, clock, and bus interface applications in low-voltage systems. It operates across VDD = 1.8V to 3.6V, delivers ±24mA balanced drive strength, supports live insertion, and features patented noise reduction circuitry with typical VOLP < 0.6V at VDD = 2.5V. Used in industrial embedded controllers requiring high-density bus buffering.

For engineers reviewing the PI74VCX16241AE datasheet, PI74VCX16241AE pinout, PI74VCX16241AE application, or PI74VCX16241AE equivalent, key selection criteria include 3.6V-tolerant I/O, true/non-inverted outputs, independent 4-channel 3-state control (1OE–4OE), and TSSOP-48 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

This device implements four independent 4-bit non-inverting buffers, each with active-low 3-state enable (nOE). All inputs and outputs are 3.6V tolerant regardless of VDD, enabling interoperability between 1.8V, 2.5V, and 3.3V domains. Power-off high-impedance behavior ensures safe bus sharing during hot-swap events.

Propagation delays range from 5.1ns to 5.3ns (typical) at VDD = 3.3V with CL = 50pF; output skew is ≤5.0ns across any two outputs switching in the same direction. The integrated noise reduction circuitry suppresses ground bounce (VOLP) and VOH undershoot (VOHV), critical for signal integrity in dense memory subsystems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 48-pin TSSOP (240 mil wide, Pb-free & Green compliant, package code A).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 16-bit 3-state buffer applications.

Compared with SN74LVC16244ADGGR and 74ALVC16244PW, PI74VCX16241AE uniquely supports full 1.8V–3.6V operation with 3.6V-tolerant I/O and integrated noise suppression - making it the only option qualified for robust, mixed-voltage bus buffering in industrial embedded systems.

Availability

PI74VCX16241AE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation controllers, memory expansion modules, and programmable logic carrier boards requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for PI74VCX16241AE 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 (now part of Diodes Incorporated) is a fabless semiconductor company specializing in high-performance interface, timing, and signal-integrity solutions for computing and communications markets.

The PI74VCX family was developed to address low-voltage, high-density bus buffering needs in portable and industrial electronics - emphasizing I/O tolerance, noise resilience, and live-insertion safety.

FAQ

What is the minimum recommended pull-up resistor value for OE pins?

The OE pins must be pulled to VCC through a resistor to ensure high-impedance state during power-up. Minimum resistance is determined by the current-sinking capability of the driver - typically ≥10kΩ for standard operation. Lower values (e.g., 4.7kΩ) may be used if faster enable timing is required, provided the driver can sink the resulting current without exceeding its rated IOK limit of –50mA.

Can PI74VCX16241AE interface directly between 1.8V and 3.3V logic domains?

Yes - all inputs and outputs are 3.6V tolerant regardless of VDD, allowing direct connection to 3.3V peripherals while operating from a 1.8V supply. No external level shifters are needed. This is confirmed by the Absolute Maximum Ratings table specifying VI and VO ranges up to 4.6V, and the Recommended Operating Conditions confirming 3.6V I/O tolerance at VDD = 1.8V–3.6V.

Does PI74VCX16241AE support hot-swap without external protection circuitry?

Yes - it features power-off high-impedance inputs and outputs, meaning all I/O pins enter a high-impedance state when VCC = 0V. This prevents back-driving or latch-up during live insertion. The device is explicitly characterized for live insertion in the Product Description and supported by its 3.6V-tolerant I/O structure and internal clamping diodes rated for ±50mA.

How does the patented noise reduction circuitry affect system-level timing margins?

The patented circuitry reduces output ground bounce (VOLP) to <0.6V and VOH undershoot (VOHV) to <–0.6V at VDD = 2.5V, directly improving timing margins by minimizing threshold-crossing uncertainty at receivers. This allows tighter setup/hold windows in high-speed memory interfaces and reduces the need for conservative timing guardbands in synchronous bus designs.