Texas Instruments SN74LV6T17BQAR

Overview

SN74LV6T17BQAR from Texas Instruments is a hex Schmitt-trigger buffer with integrated voltage-level translation, performing Y = A logic in positive logic across six independent channels. It operates from 1.6 V to 5.5 V supply, supports up/down translation (e.g., 1.2 V → 1.8 V or 5.0 V → 3.3 V), features 5.5-V tolerant inputs, and delivers ≤7.7 ns propagation delay at 5 V with 50-pF load - used in mixed-voltage I/O bridging between microcontrollers and peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the SN74LV6T17BQAR datasheet, SN74LV6T17BQAR pinout, SN74LV6T17BQAR application, or SN74LV6T17BQAR equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual-role as level translator + noise-immune buffer, guaranteed hysteresis (ΔVT ≥ 0.28 V), 150 Mbps data rate capability, and WQFN-14 wettable-flank package for automated optical inspection.

Technical Context

The SN74LV6T17BQAR implements six independent CMOS push-pull buffers, each with Schmitt-trigger inputs providing input hysteresis (ΔVT) of 0.28–1.4 V depending on VCC, enabling robust operation with slow or noisy signals. Its LVxT architecture uses reduced-threshold input circuitry to support up-translation and 5.5-V tolerant pins for down-translation without external components.

Each channel's output is referenced solely to VCC (1.6–5.5 V), delivering VOH ≥ VCC − 0.1 V and VOL ≤ 0.35 V across all supported supplies. Input transition rate is specified at 20 ns/V, and absolute maximum ratings include ±25 mA continuous output current and −0.5 V to 7 V input/output voltage range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74LV6T17BQAR is packaged in a 14-pin WQFN (BQA) with 3 mm × 2.5 mm body size, wettable flanks for AOI-compatible solder joint inspection, and an exposed thermal pad (recommended connected to GND).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar level translation and Schmitt-trigger buffer applications.

Compared with SN74LVC1G17DBVR and TXS0108EPRJR, SN74LV6T17BQAR uniquely combines six-channel Schmitt buffering with integrated up/down translation in one WQFN package - eliminating external components required by alternatives for mixed-voltage, noise-sensitive digital interfacing.

Availability

SN74LV6T17BQAR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, automotive body control modules, multi-voltage communication bridges, and programmable logic I/O expansion requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for SN74LV6T17BQAR 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 over 90 years of innovation in power management, signal chain, and interface technologies.

SN74LV6T17BQAR belongs to TI's LVxT family of translation-enabled logic devices, engineered specifically for seamless interoperability across heterogeneous voltage domains in space-constrained, noise-prone embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for reliable operation of the SN74LV6T17BQAR?

The SN74LV6T17BQAR is specified to operate down to 1.6 V VCC per the Recommended Operating Conditions table. At 1.6 V, it maintains valid VIH/VIL thresholds, delivers ≥3 mA output drive, and sustains full Schmitt-trigger hysteresis (ΔVT ≥ 0.35 V). Operation below 1.6 V is not characterized and may result in undefined logic states or increased ICC.

Can the SN74LV6T17BQAR translate a 5-V input signal to a 1.8-V output level?

Yes - the SN74LV6T17BQAR supports down-translation when powered from 1.8 V VCC. With 5-V applied to any input pin (within 5.5-V tolerance), the corresponding output swings between 0 V and ~1.7 V (VOH ≥ VCC − 0.1 V), meeting 1.8-V CMOS logic thresholds. This is validated in the LVxT Down Translation section and Table 9-1.

Does the SN74LV6T17BQAR require external pull-up or pull-down resistors on unused inputs?

Yes - unused inputs on the SN74LV6T17BQAR must be terminated to either VCC or GND to prevent floating nodes that cause excessive ICC, oscillation, or erratic outputs. A 10-kΩ resistor is recommended per TI's design guidance; direct connection is acceptable if the input is permanently inactive and no signal coupling risk exists.

What is the maximum capacitive load the SN74LV6T17BQAR can drive while maintaining datasheet timing specifications?

The SN74LV6T17BQAR guarantees all switching characteristics (e.g., tPD ≤ 7.7 ns at 5 V) up to 50 pF load capacitance, as tested in Section 6.6. Driving >50 pF increases propagation delay and may degrade edge rates; for heavier loads, add series damping or verify timing margins in the target application.

Is the thermal pad on the SN74LV6T17BQAR package electrically functional or optional?

The thermal pad on the SN74LV6T17BQAR (BQA package) is electrically functional and thermally beneficial. TI recommends connecting it to GND to improve heat dissipation (RθJB = 56.8°C/W) and reduce junction temperature - especially critical in high-density layouts or extended 125°C operation. Leaving it floating degrades thermal performance by ~20%.