Texas Instruments SN74S241DWR

Overview

SN74S241DWR from Texas Instruments is an octal non-inverting buffer/line driver with dual 4-bit channels, 3-state outputs, and active-low output-enable (G) inputs. It delivers 64 mA sink current, 15 ns max propagation delay at 5 V, and operates across 0°C to 70°C. It drives terminated bus lines down to 133 Ω in server memory address buffering and telecom backplane interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the SN74S241DWR datasheet, SN74S241DWR pinout, SN74S241DWR application, or SN74S241DWR equivalent, key selection criteria include its Schottky TTL-compatible drive strength, dual independent 4-bit channel control, 3-state bus isolation capability, and compatibility with mixed 3.3-V/5-V logic systems.

Technical Context

The SN74S241DWR implements two independent 4-bit non-inverting buffer channels, each with separate active-low output-enable (1G and 2G) inputs. Its Schottky transistor logic (S-TTL) architecture enables high-speed switching and robust noise immunity via input hysteresis (0.2–0.4 V).

It features PNP input structures that reduce DC loading on upstream drivers and supports bidirectional bus interfacing when paired with complementary devices. Output disable timing (tPZH/tPZL) is specified at 6–12 ns under 90 Ω/50 pF load conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74S241DWR is packaged in a 20-pin SOIC (DW package), body size 12.80 mm × 7.50 mm, with standard 0.300-inch wide body and 0.050-inch lead pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN74LS241DWR and SN74ACT244N, SN74S241DWR uniquely balances high sink current (64 mA), sub-10 ns propagation, and native 3.3-V/5-V input compatibility-making it optimal for legacy system upgrades where bus loading and signal integrity are critical.

Availability

SN74S241DWR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for servers, telecom infrastructure, LED displays, and industrial I/O expanders requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for SN74S241DWR 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 delivering analog, embedded processing, and logic solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

SN74S241DWR belongs to TI's legacy S-TTL logic portfolio, engineered for high-drive, noise-immune bus interfacing in mission-critical infrastructure equipment where reliability and long-term availability are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum output sink current specification for SN74S241DWR?

The SN74S241DWR is rated for 64 mA sink current per output (IOL) under recommended operating conditions. This value is confirmed in Section 6.3 (Recommended Operating Conditions) and Section 6.6 (Electrical Characteristics – SNx4S24x) of the official TI datasheet SDLS144D. Exceeding this limit risks thermal overstress or parametric shift, especially at elevated ambient temperatures.

Does SN74S241DWR support 3.3-V logic inputs while operating at 5-V VCC?

Yes, SN74S241DWR supports 3.3-V logic inputs with 5-V VCC. Its input tolerance extends down to 2 V (VIH = 2 V min), and its PNP input structure ensures compatibility with both 3.3-V and 5-V CMOS/TTL sources. This is explicitly stated in the "Features" section and verified in the VIH/VIL specifications under Recommended Operating Conditions in the SDLS144D datasheet.

What is the function of pins 1 and 19 on SN74S241DWR?

Pins 1 and 19 are the active-low output-enable inputs 1G and 2G, respectively. When pulled low, they enable the corresponding 4-bit channel's outputs (1Y1–1Y4 or 2Y1–2Y4); when high, those outputs enter high-impedance state. This dual-enable architecture allows independent control of two data paths - a key feature confirmed in the Pin Functions table and Functional Block Diagrams (Figures 17 and 18) of the SDLS144D datasheet.

Can SN74S241DWR drive a 133-Ω terminated transmission line?

Yes, SN74S241DWR is explicitly characterized to drive terminated lines down to 133 Ω, as stated in the "Description" section of the SDLS144D datasheet. This capability stems from its high output drive strength (64 mA IOL) and S-TTL output stage design, making it suitable for backplane and long-trace applications where controlled impedance routing is used.

What is the typical propagation delay for SN74S241DWR at 5 V?

The typical propagation delay (tPLH/tPHL) for SN74S241DWR is 7 ns at VCC = 5 V, RL = 90 Ω, and CL = 50 pF, per Section 6.8 (Switching Characteristics – SNx4S24x) of the SDLS144D datasheet. The maximum guaranteed delay is 9 ns under these conditions, supporting high-speed bus timing in legacy computing and telecom systems.