Texas Instruments SN74ACT72241L50RJ

Overview

SN74ACT72241L50RJ 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 serves as a high-speed data channel between asynchronous or synchronous buses in communication and graphics systems.

For engineers reviewing the SN74ACT72241L50RJ datasheet, SN74ACT72241L50RJ pinout, SN74ACT72241L50RJ application, or SN74ACT72241L50RJ equivalent, key selection criteria include its 4096-word depth, 9-bit data width with parity support, independent read/write clocks, flag synchronization logic, and RJ-package compatibility with IDT72241.

Technical Context

This FIFO employs CMOS dual-port SRAM with internal write and read address counters for strict FIFO operation. Write-enable (WEN1, WEN2/LD) and read-enable (REN1, REN2) signals control data transfer on low-to-high clock transitions of independent WCLK and RCLK inputs.

Empty-flag (EF) and full-flag (FF) are synchronized to RCLK and WCLK respectively; programmable almost-empty (PAE) and almost-full (PAF) flags use offset registers loaded via WEN2/LD during reset, defaulting to empty+7 and full–7. The device supports bit-width expansion and operates across 0°C to 70°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74ACT72241L50RJ 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 dense PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IDT72241L15JI and SN74ACT72241L20RJ, SN74ACT72241L50RJ delivers the highest speed grade (15 ns) in the TI family while maintaining full functional and pinout compatibility with IDT's industry-standard 72241, enabling direct substitution in performance-critical FIFO paths.

Availability

SN74ACT72241L50RJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for graphics frame buffering, serial communication rate matching, and industrial protocol gateway applications requiring stable component supply and long-term industrial lifecycle support.

Supply support for SN74ACT72241L50RJ 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.

SN74ACT72241L50RJ belongs to TI's ACT-family advanced CMOS FIFO product line, engineered specifically for high-speed data buffering in multi-clock-domain systems such as telecom infrastructure, test equipment, and real-time imaging subsystems.

FAQ

What is the memory organization of the SN74ACT72241L50RJ?

The SN74ACT72241L50RJ implements a 4096 × 9-bit synchronous FIFO structure, meaning it stores 4096 words of 9-bit data. This configuration supports 8-bit data plus one parity or framing bit per word, making it ideal for protocols requiring error detection or packet delineation. The memory is built using CMOS dual-port SRAM with internal address counters managing first-in, first-out data flow.

Does the SN74ACT72241L50RJ support independent read and write clocks?

Yes, the SN74ACT72241L50RJ supports fully independent read clock (RCLK) and write clock (WCLK) inputs. These clocks may operate asynchronously or be tied together for single-clock operation. Each clock controls its respective data path synchronously: WCLK governs write operations enabled by WEN1/WEN2/LD, while RCLK governs reads enabled by REN1/REN2 - enabling robust inter-domain data transfer.

How are the programmable almost-empty and almost-full flags configured on the SN74ACT72241L50RJ?

The SN74ACT72241L50RJ uses the WEN2/LD pin during reset to configure flag programming mode. When held low at reset, WEN2/LD becomes a load signal for four 8-bit offset registers. Four consecutive WCLK↑ transitions write values to empty LSB, empty MSB, full LSB, and full MSB registers. Default offsets are empty+7 and full–7, and PAE/PAF assert based on pointer difference relative to these programmed thresholds.

Is the SN74ACT72241L50RJ pin-compatible with IDT72241 devices?

Yes, the SN74ACT72241L50RJ is fully pin-compatible and functionally equivalent to the IDT72241L15JI. Both share identical 32-pin RJ packaging, pin assignments, electrical characteristics, timing parameters, and flag behavior. TI explicitly states full compatibility in the datasheet, permitting direct replacement in existing IDT-based designs without layout or firmware changes.

What is the operating temperature range for the SN74ACT72241L50RJ?

The SN74ACT72241L50RJ is characterized for operation from 0°C to 70°C ambient temperature. This commercial-grade range aligns with standard industrial control panels, communications equipment, and embedded computing platforms where airflow and thermal management meet typical board-level specifications. It does not support extended or automotive temperature grades.