Texas Instruments SN74AC7541PWR

Overview

SN74AC7541 from Texas Instruments is an octal buffer IC with open-drain CMOS outputs, dual active-low output enable inputs (OE1/OE2), 1.5V–6V supply operation, 24mA continuous output drive at 5V, and 11ns maximum propagation delay into 50pF load - used for LED driving, wired-AND bus interfacing, and level-shifting in industrial control and sensor interface circuits.

For engineers reviewing the SN74AC7541 datasheet, SN74AC7541 pinout, SN74AC7541 application, or SN74AC7541 equivalent, key selection considerations include open-drain output behavior, dual OE control logic, thermal performance in TSSOP-20 package, and compatibility with 50Ω transmission lines and mixed-voltage I/O systems.

Technical Context

The SN74AC7541 implements eight independent non-inverting buffers sharing two active-low output enable inputs (OE1 and OE2) that must both be low to activate outputs; outputs enter high-impedance state when either OE is high. Its open-drain architecture supports wired-AND logic, bidirectional bus termination, and voltage-level translation across domains.

Each channel features standard CMOS inputs with ≤9pF input capacitance and ±1µA leakage, operates across -40°C to +125°C, and delivers VOL ≤0.1V at 24mA (5V), enabling reliable low-voltage switching while maintaining ESD robustness (±2000V HBM).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TSSOP-20 (PW) package: 6.5mm × 6.4mm body, 0.65mm pitch, exposed thermal pad (not electrically connected by default); suitable for automated SMT assembly and moderate-power dissipation applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar octal open-drain buffer applications.

Compared with SN74LVC7541PWR, the SN74AC7541PWR offers wider voltage flexibility and higher ESD tolerance but slower switching; versus SN74AHC7541PWR, it provides essential open-drain capability for bus arbitration and level translation at the cost of slightly reduced speed.

Availability

SN74AC7541PWR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control panels, sensor interface modules, and embedded LED display systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for SN74AC7541PWR 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions with broad industrial, automotive, and communications market coverage.

The SN74AC7541 belongs to TI's AC-series advanced CMOS logic family, designed for high-speed, low-noise, mixed-voltage digital interfacing in harsh environments where reliability and wide operating margins are critical.

FAQ

What is the function of OE1 and OE2 on the SN74AC7541PWR?

The SN74AC7541PWR uses two active-low output enable inputs (OE1 and OE2) that are logically ANDed - both must be driven low to enable any of the eight open-drain outputs. If either OE1 or OE2 is high, all Y1–Y8 outputs enter high-impedance state. This dual-enable architecture enhances system safety by requiring explicit assertion of both controls before output activation.

Can the SN74AC7541PWR drive a 50Ω transmission line directly?

Yes, the SN74AC7541PWR is explicitly rated to drive 50Ω transmission lines. At 5V supply, it delivers 24mA continuous sink current with VOL ≤0.1V, ensuring clean signal edges and minimal reflection when properly terminated. For optimal performance, keep trace lengths short and add series resistance if capacitive load exceeds 50pF.

Does the SN74AC7541PWR support level-shifting between different supply voltages?

Yes, the SN74AC7541PWR supports level-shifting via its open-drain outputs and input voltage tolerance up to 6V. Inputs accept signals beyond VCC (e.g., 5V signals into a 3.3V-powered device), and outputs can be pulled up to a different rail (e.g., 5V) while driven by a 3.3V microcontroller - enabling bidirectional voltage translation without additional components.

What is the maximum capacitive load the SN74AC7541PWR can drive while meeting datasheet timing specs?

The SN74AC7541PWR guarantees switching characteristics (e.g., 11ns tPD) with a 50pF load. While it can drive larger capacitances, performance degrades - propagation delay increases and edge rates slow. For designs requiring full spec compliance, limit total output node capacitance (including trace, connector, and input capacitance of downstream devices) to ≤50pF.

How should unused inputs and outputs be handled on the SN74AC7541PWR?

Unused inputs on the SN74AC7541PWR must be tied to VCC or GND - never left floating - to prevent oscillation and excess power consumption. Unused open-drain outputs may be left unconnected (floating), as they do not source current; however, they must never be tied directly to VCC or GND, which would cause damage or contention.