Diodes Incorporated PI74VCX16244A

Overview

PI74VCX16244A 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 supports true outputs, symmetrical active-low output-enable (OE) inputs, operates across 1.8V–3.6V supply, delivers ±24mA drive strength, and features I/O tolerance up to 3.6V - enabling use in mixed-voltage 1.8V/3.3V domains such as DDR memory subsystems and FPGA I/O expansion.

For engineers reviewing the PI74VCX16244A datasheet, PI74VCX16244A pinout, PI74VCX16244A application, or PI74VCX16244A equivalent, key selection criteria include 3-state bus isolation capability, VDD-dependent propagation delay (5.1ns typ at VDD=3.3V), high-impedance control during power sequencing, and TSSOP-48 packaging compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The PI74VCX16244A implements four independent 4-bit buffer sections, each with dedicated active-low OE control (1OE–4OE), allowing flexible partitioning into 4×4-bit, 2×8-bit, or 1×16-bit configurations. Its patented noise reduction circuitry suppresses ground bounce (VOLP < 0.6V) and output undershoot (VOHV < –0.6V) at 2.5V operation.

All inputs and outputs are 3.6V-tolerant regardless of VDD (1.8V–3.6V), supporting live insertion and hot-swap functionality. Power-off high-impedance behavior ensures safe I/O states when VDD = 0V, and industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C) enables deployment in embedded control and telecom infrastructure.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PI74VCX16244A is housed in a 48-pin 240-mil wide plastic TSSOP (Package Code A), Pb-free and RoHS-compliant. The package features 0.5mm lead pitch, 12.4–12.6mm body length, and 6.0–6.2mm body width per JEDEC MO-153F/ED.

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, PI74VCX16244A uniquely combines 1.8V operation with verified <0.6V ground bounce, making it optimal for noise-sensitive, ultra-low-voltage DDR and FPGA interconnects where signal integrity is non-negotiable.

Availability

PI74VCX16244A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DDR memory subsystems, FPGA I/O expansion, PCI-X signal conditioning, and industrial PLC backplane interfaces requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for PI74VCX16244A 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 (acquired by Diodes Incorporated in 2016) specialized in high-speed interface, timing, and signal-integrity solutions for computing, communications, and consumer electronics.

The PI74VCX family was engineered for low-voltage, high-density bus buffering in memory and FPGA applications - emphasizing noise immunity, voltage tolerance, and industrial reliability over generic logic performance.

FAQ

What is the minimum pull-up resistor value required for OE pins during power-up?

The minimum pull-up resistor value depends on the current-sinking capability of the driver driving OE. Per datasheet guidance, OE must be tied to VCC through a pull-up resistor to ensure high-impedance state at power-up; exact value is determined by the driver's sink current and desired rise time - typical values range from 4.7kΩ to 10kΩ for standard CMOS drivers.

Can PI74VCX16244A operate reliably at 1.8V while interfacing with 3.3V peripherals?

Yes - all inputs and outputs are specified as 3.6V-tolerant across the full 1.8V–3.6V VDD range. When powered at 1.8V, the device accepts 0–3.3V input signals and drives outputs to valid logic levels compatible with 3.3V receivers, eliminating need for external level shifters.

Does PI74VCX16244A support hot-swap or live-insertion applications?

Yes - it features power-off high-impedance inputs and outputs, meaning all I/Os enter a high-impedance state when VDD = 0V. This prevents back-driving, bus contention, and latch-up during hot-plug events, satisfying key requirements for modular backplane and card-edge systems.

How does the patented noise reduction circuitry impact system-level signal integrity?

The circuitry limits output ground bounce (VOLP) to <0.6V and output undershoot (VOHV) to <–0.6V at VDD = 2.5V, directly reducing switching noise coupling into adjacent traces and power rails. This enables tighter routing density and higher bus speeds without added decoupling or layout constraints.