Texas Instruments SN74LV125AN

Overview

SN74LV125AN from Texas Instruments is a quadruple 3-state bus buffer gate designed for level-translating, low-noise digital interface applications in mixed-voltage systems. It operates across 2 V to 5.5 V V_CC, delivers 5.5 ns typical propagation delay at 5 V, supports 5.5-V-tolerant inputs, and features I_off for partial-power-down mode. It is used in enterprise SSDs and PoE-powered equipment where controlled bus isolation and voltage translation are required.

For engineers reviewing the SN74LV125AN datasheet, SN74LV125AN pinout, SN74LV125AN application, or SN74LV125AN equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated 14-pin PDIP package mapping, confirmed 3-state buffer behavior, real-world noise performance (VOLP < 0.8 V at 3.3 V), and two technically documented alternative parts with explicit functional and application differences.

Technical Context

The SN74LV125AN implements four independent noninverting buffers, each with an active-low 3-state output enable (OE) input. Its CMOS design enables bidirectional voltage translation: inputs tolerate up to 5.5 V regardless of V_CC, allowing interfacing between 5-V logic and lower-voltage domains (e.g., 3.3 V or 2.5 V).

Each buffer exhibits rail-to-rail output drive capability, with guaranteed VOL ≤ 0.55 V at 16 mA and VOH ≥ 3.8 V at 16 mA under 4.5–5.5 V operation. The I_off feature ensures high-impedance isolation during power sequencing, and latch-up immunity exceeds 250 mA per JESD 17.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74LV125AN is supplied in a 14-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP-N), 19.17 mm × 6.35 mm body size, through-hole mountable with 2.54 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; pin numbering follows standard DIP convention (counterclockwise from top-left corner).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74LVC125A and 74LVX125M, SN74LV125AN uniquely combines 5.5-V input tolerance, PDIP packaging, and full –40°C to +125°C qualification - making it the only viable option for industrial retrofits and mixed-voltage prototyping where socket compatibility and legacy signal support are essential.

Availability

SN74LV125AN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for enterprise SSD interconnect, industrial PoE endpoint control, and programmable logic controller I/O expansion requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and through-hole assembly.

Supply support for SN74LV125AN 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 experience in industrial-grade interface ICs.

The SN74LV125A belongs to TI's LV logic family, engineered for robust mixed-voltage interfacing in harsh environments - specifically targeting industrial automation, infrastructure, and storage systems demanding reliability, wide V_CC range, and I_off safety.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating voltage for SN74LV125AN?

The SN74LV125AN supports a V_CC range of 2 V to 5.5 V. Absolute maximum supply voltage is 7 V, but sustained operation above 5.5 V violates recommended conditions and risks parametric degradation. All electrical characteristics-including propagation delay, drive strength, and noise margins-are specified and guaranteed only within the 2–5.5 V window.

Does SN74LV125AN support 5-V to 3.3-V level translation?

Yes, SN74LV125AN supports down-translation: its inputs tolerate up to 5.5 V regardless of V_CC, so applying 5-V signals while powering V_CC at 3.3 V is fully compliant. Outputs swing rail-to-rail (0 V to 3.3 V), providing clean 3.3-V logic levels. No external components are needed for this function.

What is the purpose of the I_off feature in SN74LV125AN?

The I_off feature limits input/output leakage to ≤5 µA when V_CC = 0 V, preventing current backflow from live buses into unpowered sections. This enables safe hot-insertion in modular systems and eliminates unintended wake-up or latch-up during partial power-down - a key requirement in PLC backplanes and PoE-powered devices.

Can SN74LV125AN drive a 50-pF load with guaranteed timing?

Yes. At V_CC = 5 V and T_A = 25°C, SN74LV125AN guarantees t_pd ≤ 9.5 ns and t_en/t_dis ≤ 14 ns into a 50-pF capacitive load. These values are explicitly tested and published in Section 6.8 of the SCES124O datasheet, confirming reliable timing margin for typical PCB trace and IC input loading.

Is SN74LV125AN pin-compatible with other SN74LV125x variants?

Yes - all SN74LV125x part numbers (e.g., SN74LV125ADR, SN74LV125ADBR) share identical pin functions and logic behavior. However, SN74LV125AN uses PDIP packaging, while others use SOIC, SSOP, or TVSOP. Mechanical fit and thermal performance differ, but electrical interface and PCB footprint logic remain consistent across the family.