Texas Instruments SN74F241DWRE4

Overview

SN74F241DWRE4 from Texas Instruments is an octal noninverting buffer/driver with 3-state outputs, designed for memory address driving and bus interfacing in TTL-compatible systems. It features dual independent 4-bit channels, symmetrical active-low output-enable (1OE/2OE), 5 V supply operation, 64 mA low-level output drive, and operates from 0°C to 70°C.

For engineers reviewing the SN74F241DWRE4 datasheet, SN74F241DWRE4 pinout, SN74F241DWRE4 application, or SN74F241DWRE4 equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, SOIC-20 package details, functional truth table behavior, real-world bus-driving use cases, and validated alternative options for legacy TTL system design and obsolescence mitigation.

Technical Context

The SN74F241DWRE4 implements two independent 4-bit noninverting buffer sections, each with dedicated active-low output-enable control (1OE for Y1–Y4, 2OE for Y1–Y4). Its logic function follows standard positive-logic 3-state behavior: outputs go high-impedance when OE is high, and replicate inputs when OE is low.

It belongs to the 74F (Fast TTL) family, optimized for speed and density in memory and bus applications. Key timing parameters include tPLH/tPHL ≤ 6.2 ns (VCC = 4.5–5.5 V, CL = 50 pF), tPZL ≤ 8 ns, and tPHZ ≤ 7 ns - all specified across full commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74F241DWRE4 is packaged in a 20-pin SOIC (DW) with 1.27 mm pitch, 7.5 mm body width, and 2.65 mm max height - compatible with automated SMT assembly and IPC-7351 land patterns.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74F241DWRE4, SN74F240DWRE4 offers identical form-factor and performance with inverted logic - ideal for polarity-matched redesigns - while SN74ACT244N trades drive strength and pin compatibility for CMOS efficiency, requiring board-level changes and careful timing validation.

Availability

SN74F241DWRE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for memory address buffering, ISA bus interfacing, industrial controller backplanes, and EPROM programming adapters requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence support.

Supply support for SN74F241DWRE4 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, delivering analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The SN74F241DWRE4 belongs to TI's 74F Fast TTL logic product line - engineered for high-speed, high-drive memory and bus interface applications in legacy and upgrade systems where TTL compatibility and timing predictability are critical.

FAQ

What is the function of SN74F241DWRE4 in a memory subsystem?

The SN74F241DWRE4 serves as an octal noninverting 3-state buffer that drives and isolates memory address lines. In a memory subsystem, it fans out CPU address signals to multiple RAM/ROM chips while enabling bus sharing via its dual active-low output-enable inputs (1OE and 2OE), ensuring no contention during refresh or DMA cycles. Its 64 mA sink capability supports TTL load requirements without additional drivers.

Does SN74F241DWRE4 support 3.3 V logic levels?

No, SN74F241DWRE4 is a 5 V Fast TTL device with VIH = 2.0 V minimum and VIL = 0.8 V maximum - it is not 3.3 V tolerant. Applying 3.3 V inputs may result in marginal or incorrect logic recognition, and VCC must be maintained at 4.5–5.5 V. For mixed-voltage systems, level-shifting circuitry or a 3.3 V–compatible alternative like SN74LVC244A is required.

What is the pin compatibility between SN74F241DWRE4 and SN74F240DWRE4?

SN74F241DWRE4 and SN74F240DWRE4 share identical SOIC-20 (DW) pinout, package dimensions, and timing specifications - differing only in output logic polarity (noninverting vs. inverting). This makes them mechanically and electrically pin-compatible for board reuse, provided system logic accommodates the inversion; no PCB changes are needed for substitution in space-constrained layouts.

What thermal and electrical limits define safe operation of SN74F241DWRE4?

SN74F241DWRE4 must operate within VCC = 4.5–5.5 V, ambient temperature 0°C–70°C, and output current ≤ 64 mA per pin (low state). Absolute maximum ratings prohibit VI > 7 V or VCC > 7 V, and storage temperature must stay within –65°C to 150°C. Exceeding IOL = 64 mA risks parametric shift or latch-up; sustained operation above 70°C requires derating or thermal analysis.

How does SN74F241DWRE4 handle bus contention during 3-state transitions?

SN74F241DWRE4 minimizes bus contention through fast, controlled 3-state switching: tPZL ≤ 8 ns (output disable delay) and tPHZ ≤ 7 ns (output enable delay) ensure rapid, predictable release and acquisition of bus lines. Its symmetrical OE inputs allow precise coordination with system control signals, and the 64 mA drive strength ensures dominant low-state signaling during brief overlap windows - critical in shared-address architectures.