Texas Instruments SN74ACT7203L15RJ

Overview

SN74ACT7203L15RJ from Texas Instruments is a 2048 × 9 asynchronous dual-port FIFO memory IC with 15 ns data access time, 40 MHz read/write frequency capability, TTL-compatible inputs, and built-in empty/full/half-full status flags. It operates in 0°C to 70°C and is used as a rate-matching buffer between asynchronous buses in data-acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the SN74ACT7203L15RJ datasheet, SN74ACT7203L15RJ pinout, SN74ACT7203L15RJ application, or SN74ACT7203L15RJ equivalent, this page delivers verified timing parameters, depth/width expansion logic behavior, retransmit functionality, and package-specific terminal mapping for the 32-pin RJ (PLCC) variant.

Technical Context

The SN74ACT7203L15RJ implements a first-in, first-out (FIFO) architecture using dual-port SRAM with independent internal write and read address counters. Its asynchronous operation supports coincident or non-coincident read/write cycles without external clock synchronization.

It features dedicated control logic for reset (RS), retransmit (FL/RT), expansion chaining (XI/XO/HF), and automatic flag generation (EF, FF, XO/HF). The device supports bit-width expansion via parallel connection and word-depth expansion via daisy-chained XI–XO routing, with status flag logic requiring external OR-gating in depth-expanded configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74ACT7203L15RJ is housed in a 32-pin plastic J-leaded chip-carrier (RJ) package, with gull-wing leads and 0.050″ lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a notch on the top edge; the package is lead-free and RoHS-compliant per TI's 1995 specification.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FIFO memory applications.

Compared with IDT7203LA and SN74ACT7203L15DV, the SN74ACT7203L15RJ offers identical core FIFO performance but delivers enhanced mechanical robustness and thermal dissipation via its 32-pin PLCC package - critical for long-life industrial deployments where thermal cycling and vibration resistance matter.

Availability

SN74ACT7203L15RJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for data-acquisition systems, communication protocol queuing, and bus rate matching requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for SN74ACT7203L15RJ 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 founded in 1930, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The SN74ACT7203L15RJ belongs to TI's ACT-family advanced CMOS logic product line, engineered for high-speed, low-power FIFO buffering in mixed-signal systems where deterministic latency and asynchronous interoperability are essential.

FAQ

What is the memory depth and width of the SN74ACT7203L15RJ?

The SN74ACT7203L15RJ provides 2048 words of storage, each 9 bits wide (2048 × 9). This configuration supports 8-bit data plus 1 parity or framing bit per word. The memory is implemented as dual-port SRAM with independent read and write address counters, enabling true asynchronous operation without shared clocking.

How does the retransmit function work on the SN74ACT7203L15RJ?

The SN74ACT7203L15RJ supports retransmit via the FL/RT pin: pulsing FL/RT low resets the internal read pointer to location zero while leaving the write pointer unchanged. This allows previously read data to be re-output without altering FIFO contents. R and W must remain high during the FL/RT pulse, and retransmit is only safe if fewer than 2048 writes have occurred since the last reset.

Can multiple SN74ACT7203L15RJ devices be cascaded for greater depth?

Yes - the SN74ACT7203L15RJ supports native depth expansion via XI and XO/HF pins. Devices are daisy-chained with XO/HF of one connected to XI of the next. The first device has FL/RT grounded; others hold FL/RT high. External OR gates combine EF and FF signals across the chain, while RT and HF functions are disabled in depth-expanded mode.

What are the timing requirements for reliable read and write cycles on the SN74ACT7203L15RJ?

The SN74ACT7203L15RJ requires minimum 15 ns pulse widths for R and W low states, 10 ns for R and W high states, and 11 ns data setup before W↑. Access time is 15 ns from R↓ to valid Q0–Q8 output. Full timing margins are defined in Figures 1–12 of the SCAS226A datasheet, with all values guaranteed over 0°C to 70°C at VCC = 4.5 V to 5.5 V.

Is the SN74ACT7203L15RJ pin-compatible with other members of the SN74ACT72xxL family?

No - the SN74ACT7203L15RJ is not pin-compatible with SN74ACT7204L/7205L/7206L. Although all share the same RJ package and functional pin assignments, their memory depths differ (2048 vs. 4096/8192/16384), resulting in distinct internal flag thresholds and propagation delays. Substituting across family members requires layout and firmware validation.