Texas Instruments SN74AS241ADWR

Overview

SN74AS241ADWR from Texas Instruments is an octal 3-state noninverting buffer/driver IC designed for memory address and bus driving applications. It features dual independent output-enable inputs (1OE, 2OE), 8-bit noninverting data paths (1A1–1A4, 2A1–2A4 → 1Y1–1Y4, 2Y1–2Y4), ±64 mA low-level output drive, and operates across 0°C to 70°C at 4.5–5.5 V supply. It is used in legacy industrial control backplanes and TTL-compatible system buses.

For engineers reviewing the SN74AS241ADWR datasheet, SN74AS241ADWR pinout, SN74AS241ADWR application, or SN74AS241ADWR equivalent, key selection considerations include its 20-pin SOIC (DW) package, dual OE control architecture, 6.2 ns max propagation delay (tPHL/tPLH), 3-state output leakage (±50 µA), and compatibility with 5-V TTL logic families in high-fanout bus interface roles.

Technical Context

This device implements two independent 4-bit noninverting buffer sections, each with dedicated active-low output-enable (1OE, 2OE). Each section drives four outputs (e.g., 1A1→1Y1) with symmetrical enable timing and no internal inversion. The AS logic family delivers faster switching than ALS-6.2 ns max tPLH/tPHL vs. 11 ns-while maintaining TTL-compatible input thresholds (VIL = 0.8 V, VIH = 2 V).

It uses bipolar Schottky-clamped transistor technology for high-speed operation and low propagation delay variation. Output stages support true 3-state (high-impedance) control with guaranteed VOL ≤ 0.55 V at IOL = 64 mA and VOH ≥ 2.4 V at IOH = −15 mA, enabling direct interfacing with standard TTL loads without external pull-ups.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74AS241ADWR is housed in a 20-pin plastic small-outline integrated circuit (SOIC) package (DW), 7.5 mm wide, 12.8 mm long, 2.65 mm max height, with 1.27 mm lead pitch and RoHS-compliant NiPdAu lead finish (Level-1 MSL rating).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar octal 3-state buffer applications.

Compared with SN74ALS241CDWR and SN74F241N, SN74AS241ADWR provides the highest output drive and fastest propagation in a surface-mount package-critical for modern retrofits and space-constrained industrial controllers where bus reliability under heavy capacitive load is essential.

Availability

SN74AS241ADWR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control backplanes, legacy TTL system upgrades, and memory address buffering requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence mitigation.

Supply support for SN74AS241ADWR 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 founded in 1930, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

SN74AS241ADWR belongs to TI's 74AS logic family-designed for high-speed, high-drive 5-V TTL-compatible digital interfacing in mission-critical industrial and military-aerospace systems.

FAQ

What logic family does SN74AS241ADWR belong to, and how does it differ from 74LS or 74ALS?

SN74AS241ADWR is part of the 74AS (Advanced Schottky) logic family. It differs from 74LS by offering 2.7× higher output drive (64 mA vs. 24 mA) and ~2× faster propagation (6.2 ns vs. 15 ns). Versus 74ALS, it delivers 2.7× more sink current and 40% lower delay (6.2 ns vs. 11 ns), achieved via optimized Schottky-clamped bipolar design. All three share pinout and function but differ in speed, drive, and power trade-offs.

Is SN74AS241ADWR pin-compatible with SN74ALS241CDWR?

Yes, SN74AS241ADWR is pin-compatible with SN74ALS241CDWR: both use the same SOIC-20 (DW) package, identical pin assignments (including 1OE, 2OE, 1A1–1A4, 2A1–2A4, 1Y1–1Y4, 2Y1–2Y4, VCC, GND), and identical logic function. This enables direct replacement in existing layouts without PCB changes-provided thermal and timing margins accommodate AS-family's higher ICC (up to 90 mA vs. ALS's 35 mA).

What is the maximum capacitive load SN74AS241ADWR can drive while maintaining specified timing?

SN74AS241ADWR's switching characteristics (tPLH/tPHL ≤ 6.2 ns) are specified with CL = 50 pF, R1 = R2 = 500 Ω. While it can drive heavier loads, timing degrades linearly beyond 50 pF; for >100 pF, propagation delay increases significantly and may violate setup/hold windows. For loads exceeding 50 pF, verify timing in-system or add series termination to limit ringing and ensure signal integrity at target clock rates.

Does SN74AS241ADWR support hot-swap or live-insertion on a powered bus?

SN74AS241ADWR is not rated for hot-swap operation. Its absolute maximum ratings specify VI ≤ 7 V and disabled output voltage ≤ 5.5 V, but no built-in bus-fault protection, current limiting, or power-up sequencing immunity is provided. Applying signals to inputs or outputs while VCC is off risks latch-up or damage. Use external protection (e.g., series resistors, hot-swap controllers) if live insertion is required.

What is the recommended operating voltage range and why is it limited to 4.5–5.5 V?

The recommended VCC range for SN74AS241ADWR is 4.5 V to 5.5 V. Operation below 4.5 V risks insufficient noise margin and degraded VOH/VIH thresholds; above 5.5 V exceeds safe biasing for internal bipolar transistors and risks accelerated degradation. The 7 V absolute maximum rating is a stress limit-not functional-and prolonged operation near 5.5 V requires thermal validation due to increased ICC (up to 90 mA) and power dissipation.