Texas Instruments SN74LVC1G240YEAR

Overview

SN74LVC1G240 from Texas Instruments is a single-channel inverting buffer/driver with 3-state output, designed for signal conditioning and bus isolation in low-voltage digital systems. It operates from 1.65V to 5.5V, delivers ±24mA drive at 3.3V, achieves 3.7ns max propagation delay, and supports 5.5V-tolerant inputs - enabling level translation in mixed-supply applications such as microcontroller I/O expansion.

For engineers reviewing the SN74LVC1G240 datasheet, SN74LVC1G240 pinout, SN74LVC1G240 application, or SN74LVC1G240 equivalent, key selection criteria include 3-state control timing (enable/disable), Ioff support for live insertion, input overvoltage tolerance, low ICC (≤10μA), and NanoFree™ package compatibility with high-density PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The SN74LVC1G240 implements a CMOS-based inverting logic gate with active-low 3-state control via OE. Its balanced output stage sources and sinks equal current (±24mA @ 3.3V), ensuring symmetrical rise/fall times and robust driving into capacitive loads up to 50pF. The device features Ioff circuitry that disables all outputs when VCC = 0V, preventing back-drive current during partial power-down.

Input pins are overvoltage tolerant to 5.5V independent of VCC, enabling safe interfacing with higher-voltage logic families. The internal clamp diode structure includes only negative clamping, requiring strict adherence to absolute maximum input voltage limits to avoid damage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74LVC1G240 is available in multiple ultra-compact packages including DBV (SOT-23-5), DCK (SC70-5), YZP (DSBGA-5), DRY (SON-6), and DSF (SON-6). All variants share identical pin functionality except for the NC terminal in 6-pin SON packages.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with 74LVC1G04GW and SN74LVC1G17DBVR, the SN74LVC1G240 uniquely combines inverting logic, 3-state control, and 5.5V-tolerant inputs - making it the only option among the three for applications requiring dynamic bus isolation, live insertion, or mixed-voltage signal routing.

Availability

SN74LVC1G240 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LED indicator control, digital signal redriving, transmission line termination, controller reset hold functions, and I²C/SPI bus buffering requiring stable component supply across automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics programs.

Supply support for SN74LVC1G240 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 innovation in low-power, high-reliability logic families.

The SN74LVC1G240 belongs to TI's LVC (Low-Voltage CMOS) logic family, engineered for interoperability across 1.65V–5.5V supply rails and optimized for space-constrained, low-power digital interfaces in portable and industrial systems.

FAQ

What is the function of the OE pin on the SN74LVC1G240?

The OE (Output Enable) pin on the SN74LVC1G240 is an active-low control input that places the Y output in high-impedance state when driven high. When OE is low, the device performs inverting logic: Y = NOT A. To ensure high-Z during power-up, TI recommends tying OE to VCC through a pullup resistor - typically 10kΩ - sized to accommodate the driver's current-sinking capability.

Does the SN74LVC1G240 support 5V input signals while operating at 1.8V VCC?

Yes, the SN74LVC1G240 supports input voltages up to 5.5V regardless of VCC level, enabling true down-translation. When powered at 1.8V, it safely accepts 5V logic inputs without external level shifters. This overvoltage tolerance is implemented via internal protection circuitry without positive clamp diodes - critical for interfacing with legacy 5V peripherals in modern low-voltage designs using SN74LVC1G240.

What is the maximum capacitive load the SN74LVC1G240 can drive while maintaining specified timing?

The SN74LVC1G240 is characterized for CL = 15pF and CL = 30pF/50pF loads in its switching specifications. TI specifies guaranteed performance up to 50pF while meeting all tpd, ten, and tdis limits across –40°C to 125°C. For loads exceeding 50pF, a series damping resistor (e.g., 22Ω–33Ω) is recommended near the output to suppress ringing and maintain signal integrity - a design practice validated in the SN74LVC1G240 layout guidelines.

How does the Ioff feature of the SN74LVC1G240 improve system reliability?

The Ioff feature disables all outputs when VCC = 0V, limiting leakage current to ±10μA per pin. This prevents back-driving of powered circuitry from unpowered sections - essential for hot-swap modules, partial power-down states, or systems with asymmetric rail sequencing. Unlike standard buffers, SN74LVC1G240 avoids latch-up risk and signal corruption during power transitions, directly enhancing robustness in field-upgradable or modular electronics.

Which package options are available for the SN74LVC1G240, and what are their key mechanical differences?

The SN74LVC1G240 is offered in DBV (SOT-23-5, 2.9mm × 2.8mm), DCK (SC70-5, 2.0mm × 2.1mm), YZP (DSBGA-5, 1.39mm × 0.89mm), and two 6-pin SON variants: DRY and DSF (1.45mm × 1.0mm and 1.0mm × 1.0mm respectively). Only DRY and DSF include a No-Connect (NC) pin; all others are 5-pin functional equivalents. The YZP DSBGA provides the smallest footprint and lowest inductance, ideal for ultra-dense portable designs using SN74LVC1G240.