Texas Instruments SN74S241DW

Overview

SN74S241DW from Texas Instruments is an octal non-inverting 3-state line driver with dual independent 4-bit channels, designed for memory address and bus driving in TTL-compatible systems. It features 5-V operation, 7 ns typical propagation delay (tPLH/tPHL), ±64 mA output drive capability, and PNP input structure to reduce DC loading on buses. It is used in server backplanes and telecom infrastructure for signal buffering and isolation.

For engineers reviewing the SN74S241DW datasheet, SN74S241DW pinout, SN74S241DW application, or SN74S241DW equivalent, key selection criteria include its 3-state enable control per channel, Schottky-clamped S-series speed-power tradeoff, compatibility with LS- and S-family logic, and SOIC-20 package thermal performance (RθJA = 90.3°C/W).

Technical Context

The SN74S241DW implements two independent 4-bit non-inverting buffer sections (Channel 1: 1A1–1A4 → 1Y1–1Y4; Channel 2: 2A1–2A4 → 2Y1–2Y4), each controlled by a dedicated active-low output-enable input (1G and 2G/2G). Its Schottky transistor logic (S-TTL) architecture delivers faster switching than LS variants while maintaining TTL voltage thresholds.

Each channel operates with hysteresis-enhanced noise margins (0.2–0.4 V), PNP input stages reducing bus loading, and symmetrical 3-state output control. The device supports terminated-line driving down to 133 Ω and requires no external pull-ups on G inputs when tied directly to VCC during power-up sequencing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74S241DW is housed in a 20-pin SOIC (DW) package measuring 12.80 mm × 7.50 mm, optimized for surface-mount assembly and moderate thermal dissipation in industrial and telecom applications.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74LS241DW and SN74ACT244N, SN74S241DW uniquely balances high-speed S-TTL switching (7 ns), robust ±64 mA drive, and PNP-input bus loading reduction - making it optimal for legacy 5-V bus systems demanding both speed and signal integrity.

Availability

SN74S241DW is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server backplanes, telecom infrastructure, industrial I/O expanders, and motor control logic requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for SN74S241DW 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 company specializing in analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions, with over 50 years of leadership in TTL and advanced logic families.

The SN74S241DW belongs to TI's classic S-TTL logic product line, engineered specifically for high-speed, high-drive bus interface applications in industrial, computing, and communications equipment where reliability and backward compatibility are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature range for the SN74S241DW?

The SN74S241DW is rated for commercial operation from 0°C to +70°C ambient temperature. This range is defined in the Recommended Operating Conditions table and applies to the SOIC-20 (DW) package variant. Operation outside this range may result in parametric degradation or functional failure, and is not guaranteed by Texas Instruments' specifications for this part number.

Does the SN74S241DW require external pull-up resistors on its G pins?

No, the SN74S241DW does not require external pull-up resistors on 1G or 2G/2G pins when powered from a well-regulated 5-V supply. Its internal design ensures proper high-impedance state during power-up if G is tied directly to VCC. However, in systems with uncontrolled power sequencing, a 10-kΩ pull-up is recommended to guarantee safe default tri-state behavior.

Can the SN74S241DW drive a 50-Ω transmission line?

No, the SN74S241DW is specified to drive terminated lines down to 133 Ω, not 50 Ω. Driving a 50-Ω load would exceed its ±64 mA output current rating under worst-case VOL/VOH conditions and risk parametric violation or thermal overstress. For 50-Ω systems, consider purpose-built line drivers such as the SN65LVDS1 or DS26C31.

How does the PNP input structure of the SN74S241DW reduce bus loading?

Unlike standard TTL inputs that sink current in the LOW state, the PNP inputs of the SN74S241DW source current when driven LOW - resulting in a typical IIL of –400 µA (i.e., current flows *out* of the input). This reduces net DC loading on shared bus lines, lowers total system power, and minimizes voltage droop across series termination resistors in multi-drop configurations.

Is the SN74S241DW pin-compatible with the SN74LS241DW?

Yes, the SN74S241DW and SN74LS241DW share identical pinouts, package dimensions (SOIC-20 DW), and functional logic diagrams. They differ only in internal transistor technology (S-TTL vs LS-TTL), resulting in different speed, drive strength, and power consumption - but no PCB layout changes are needed when substituting between them in existing designs.