Texas Instruments SN74ACT72241L35RJ

Overview

SN74ACT72241L35RJ from Texas Instruments is a 4096 × 9-bit synchronous first-in, first-out (FIFO) memory IC with dual-port SRAM architecture, 15 ns write/read cycle time, TTL-compatible inputs, and programmable almost-empty/almost-full flags. It operates from 0°C to 70°C and is used in high-speed data buffering between asynchronous buses in communication systems and graphics subsystems.

For engineers reviewing the SN74ACT72241L35RJ datasheet, SN74ACT72241L35RJ pinout, SN74ACT72241L35RJ application, or SN74ACT72241L35RJ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4096-word depth, 9-bit bus width, independent read/write clocks, flag synchronization logic, and RJ-package compatibility with IDT72241-family designs.

Technical Context

This FIFO employs CMOS dual-port SRAM with internal write and read address counters for strict FIFO data flow control. Its synchronous interface uses low-to-high transitions of WCLK and RCLK-each gated by dedicated enable signals (WEN1/WEN2-LD and REN1/REN2)-to perform writes and reads independently.

The device supports two operational modes determined at reset: dual-write-enable mode (WEN2/LD = high) or programmable flag mode (WEN2/LD = low), enabling either fixed-offset flag behavior or user-defined PAE/PAF thresholds via four 8-bit offset registers accessed through WCLK- and RCLK-gated sequences.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74ACT72241L35RJ is housed in a 32-pin plastic J-leaded chip carrier (RJ) package with gull-wing leads, designed for surface-mount assembly and thermal reliability in high-density PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IDT72241L15JI and SN74ACT72241L25RJ, SN74ACT72241L35RJ delivers maximum throughput (66.7 MHz) in the TI-qualified version, maintains full functional equivalence with IDT's implementation, and provides tighter timing margins than the -25 variant-making it optimal for bandwidth-critical, TI-centric designs.

Availability

SN74ACT72241L35RJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for graphics subsystems, industrial communication gateways, test instrumentation, and high-speed data acquisition systems requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for SN74ACT72241L35RJ 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 logic solutions, with decades of heritage in high-reliability industrial and communications ICs.

SN74ACT72241L35RJ belongs to TI's ACT-family advanced CMOS logic portfolio, engineered specifically for high-speed, low-power synchronous data buffering in mixed-clock-domain systems.

FAQ

What is the memory organization of SN74ACT72241L35RJ?

SN74ACT72241L35RJ is organized as 4096 words × 9 bits, delivering 36,864 bits of synchronous FIFO storage. This configuration supports byte-wide data plus parity or framing bits, and is implemented using dual-port CMOS SRAM with independent read and write address counters to ensure strict first-in, first-out data ordering within SN74ACT72241L35RJ.

How does SN74ACT72241L35RJ handle full and empty conditions?

SN74ACT72241L35RJ uses hardware-synchronized status flags: FF (full-flag) goes low on WCLK↑ when memory reaches 4096 words, inhibiting further writes; EF (empty-flag) goes low on RCLK↑ when no unread words remain, blocking reads. Both flags are registered to their respective clocks to prevent metastability and ensure deterministic boundary detection in SN74ACT72241L35RJ.

Can SN74ACT72241L35RJ operate with a single clock for both read and write?

Yes, SN74ACT72241L35RJ supports single-clock operation: WCLK and RCLK may be tied together without functional impact. The device maintains independent read and write pointer tracking internally, so concurrent access remains safe and ordered. This configuration simplifies timing closure in systems where clock domain separation is not required, and is fully supported per SN74ACT72241L35RJ datasheet specifications.

What determines whether WEN2/LD functions as a second write enable or a load signal?

The function of WEN2/LD in SN74ACT72241L35RJ is determined by its logic level during device reset (RS low). If held high during reset, it acts as WEN2-a second write enable. If held low, it becomes LD-the load signal for programming PAE/PAF offset registers. This mode selection is latched at reset release and remains fixed until next reset, defining all subsequent flag behavior in SN74ACT72241L35RJ.

Is SN74ACT72241L35RJ compatible with IDT72241 devices?

Yes, SN74ACT72241L35RJ is fully compatible with IDT72241 devices: identical pinout, timing, flag behavior, and electrical specifications. TI explicitly states "Fully Compatible With the IDT72211/72221/72231/72241" in the datasheet. This makes SN74ACT72241L35RJ a direct functional and mechanical replacement in any IDT72241-based design, including footprint, signal routing, and firmware interface logic for SN74ACT72241L35RJ.