Texas Instruments SN65ELT23DGK

Overview

SN65ELT23DGK from Texas Instruments is a dual 5-V differential PECL-to-TTL translator IC in an 8-pin VSSOP package, delivering 24-mA TTL outputs with 3.5-ns typical propagation delay and support for 250-MHz clock frequencies. It features internal 50-kΩ pull-down resistors, output default-low behavior on open inputs, and operates across –40°C to 85°C for backplane clock/data transmission and level conversion.

For engineers reviewing the SN65ELT23DGK datasheet, SN65ELT23DGK pinout, SN65ELT23DGK application, or SN65ELT23DGK equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated pin roles, confirmed thermal and AC performance specs, real-world use cases in timing-critical systems, and two technically documented alternative parts with explicit differences.

Technical Context

The SN65ELT23DGK implements dual independent PECL input stages with differential threshold detection and TTL-compatible CMOS output drivers. Each channel accepts PECL differential inputs (200–1000 mV swing) and delivers rail-to-rail TTL logic levels (VOH ≥ 2.4 V at –3 mA, VOL ≤ 0.5 V at 24 mA) with built-in temperature compensation.

It operates with PECL VCC = 4.75 V to 5.25 V and GND = 0 V, supports open-input default-low state via internal 50-kΩ pull-downs, and achieves 250-MHz max switching frequency with 3.7-ns typical tPLH/tPHL at 25°C and 4.1-ps RMS random jitter.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The SN65ELT23DGK is housed in an 8-pin VSSOP (DGK) package, 3.0 mm × 3.0 mm × 1.1 mm height, with exposed pad for thermal enhancement and JEDEC MO-187 compliance.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar PECL-to-TTL translation applications.

Compared with MC100ELT23DG and SN65LVDS23DGK, the SN65ELT23DGK uniquely combines PECL input compatibility, 5-V TTL output drive, MSL-1 reflow readiness, and industry-standard VSSOP packaging-making it the sole option for new 5-V PECL interface designs requiring production scalability and thermal robustness.

Availability

SN65ELT23DGK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for backplane clock distribution, industrial PLC timing interfaces, high-speed test equipment signal conditioning, and FR-4 data transmission requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long-lifecycle programs.

Supply support for SN65ELT23DGK 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

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies, with decades of expertise in high-speed interface solutions.

The SN65ELT23DGK belongs to TI's SN65E family of PECL translators, designed specifically for reliable, low-jitter level conversion in telecom infrastructure, industrial automation, and test instrumentation where signal integrity and thermal stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported clock frequency for SN65ELT23DGK?

The SN65ELT23DGK supports a maximum switching frequency of 250 MHz under conditions where VOL < 0.5 V and VOH > 2.4 V, as verified in AC characterization at 25°C with 5-V VCC and 20-pF load. This specification is maintained across the full –40°C to +85°C operating range, making SN65ELT23DGK suitable for OC-48 and Gigabit Ethernet reference clock applications.

Does SN65ELT23DGK require external pull-down resistors on its PECL inputs?

No, SN65ELT23DGK does not require external pull-down resistors because it integrates internal 50-kΩ pull-downs on all PECL inputs (D0, D0, D1, D1). This design ensures outputs default to logic low when inputs are left open or driven below 1.3 V, eliminating risk of undefined states during power-up or signal loss-confirmed in the device's functional description and DC input current specifications.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of SN65ELT23DGK on a low-K PCB?

The SN65ELT23DGK has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 213 °C/W when mounted on a low-thermal-conductivity PCB, as specified in the "Dissipation Ratings" table of the datasheet. This value assumes standard JEDEC test conditions (1s2p board, no airflow), and determines safe power dissipation limits-e.g., 27 mA ICC at 5 V yields ~135 mW, resulting in ~28.8°C junction rise above ambient.

Is SN65ELT23DGK pin-compatible with MC100ELT23?

Yes, SN65ELT23DGK is explicitly documented as drop-in compatible with MC100ELT23, sharing identical pin assignments, electrical functionality, and AC performance. The datasheet confirms this in the "Features" section and Table 1, enabling direct substitution in existing SOIC-8 or VSSOP-8 layouts without changes to footprint or routing-though SN65ELT23DGK adds MSL-1 reflow compliance and improved thermal metrics.

What are the absolute maximum ratings for SN65ELT23DGK supply voltage and operating temperature?

The absolute maximum supply voltage (VCC) for SN65ELT23DGK is 6 V, and the absolute maximum operating temperature is +85°C, with storage temperature extending to +150°C. These limits are strictly defined in the "Absolute Maximum Ratings" table; exceeding them-even briefly-may cause permanent damage. Recommended operation remains within 4.75–5.25 V and –40°C to +85°C per the "Recommended Operating Conditions."