Texas Instruments SN74V215-15PAG

Overview

SN74V215-15PAG from Texas Instruments is a 512 × 18-bit synchronous FIFO memory IC with 7.5-ns read/write cycle time, 3.3-V V_CC, and 5-V input-tolerant I/O. It supports FWFT or standard timing modes, features programmable almost-empty/almost-full flags, and delivers high-speed buffering for DSP-to-processor and DSP-to-AFE interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the SN74V215-15PAG datasheet, SN74V215-15PAG pinout, SN74V215-15PAG application, or SN74V215-15PAG equivalent, key selection criteria include its 512-word depth, 18-bit bus width, dual-clock asynchronous/synchronous operation, half-full flag capability, and PAG-package pin compatibility with TI's DSP-Sync FIFO family.

Technical Context

This is a synchronous, clocked FIFO with independent read and write ports, each gated on low-to-high transitions of continuous RCLK and WCLK. All status flags (EF/OR, FF/IR, PAE, PAF, HF) are synchronous and updated on respective clock edges-RCLK for EF/OR/PAE, WCLK for FF/IR/PAF.

It implements two configurable timing modes: first-word fall-through (FWFT), where the first written word appears at outputs after three RCLK edges without REN assertion; and standard mode, requiring explicit REN + RCLK to shift data out. Mode selection is determined at reset via FL/RXI/WXI logic levels.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Packaged in a 64-pin thin quad flat package (TQFP), the SN74V215-15PAG uses a standard PAG footprint with 0.5-mm pitch and exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are validated per TI SCAS636E datasheet revision September 2002.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FIFO memory applications.

Compared with SN74V225-15PAG, the SN74V215-15PAG provides identical performance in a smaller memory footprint, reducing cost and board space; versus IDT72V215L15PF, it delivers superior real-time responsiveness via FWFT mode and enhanced system visibility via HF flag - both unavailable in the IDT part.

Availability

SN74V215-15PAG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DSP interface design, real-time signal processing, and industrial communications equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle assurance.

Supply support for SN74V215-15PAG 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 digital signal processing technologies.

The SN74V215-15PAG belongs to TI's DSP-Sync FIFO product line, engineered specifically to provide glueless, low-latency buffering between TMS320 DSPs and peripheral subsystems in high-performance embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the memory organization and maximum operating frequency of the SN74V215-15PAG?

The SN74V215-15PAG features a 512 × 18-bit synchronous FIFO architecture, providing 9,216 bits of buffer storage. It supports read/write cycle times of 7.5 ns, enabling reliable operation at up to 133 MHz with full timing margin compliance across 0°C to +70°C. This performance is validated per TI SCAS636E datasheet specifications and applies directly to the SN74V215-15PAG in PAG package.

Does the SN74V215-15PAG support both FWFT and standard timing modes, and how is mode selection performed?

Yes, the SN74V215-15PAG supports both first-word fall-through (FWFT) and standard timing modes. Mode selection occurs during power-on reset via the logic states of FL, RXI, and WXI pins as defined in Table 5 of the SCAS636E datasheet. No external configuration register or serial interface is required - the mode is latched at reset and remains fixed until next reset. This hardware-based selection ensures deterministic startup behavior for the SN74V215-15PAG.

What are the default offset values for the programmable almost-empty and almost-full flags in the SN74V215-15PAG?

The SN74V215-15PAG defaults to an empty offset of 63 and a full offset of 63 at power-up or reset. These values mean PAE asserts when ≤63 words remain, and PAF asserts when ≥449 words are stored (512 − 63). Offsets are loaded via the LD/WEN sequence using D0–D11 and can be reprogrammed dynamically. These defaults are specific to SN74V215-15PAG and differ from higher-capacity variants (e.g., SN74V225 uses 127).

Is the SN74V215-15PAG pin-compatible with other devices in the SN74V2xx family, such as SN74V225-15PAG?

Yes, the SN74V215-15PAG is fully pin-compatible with SN74V225-15PAG, SN74V235-15PAG, and SN74V245-15PAG in the same PAG package. All share identical pinout, electrical characteristics, and timing parameters - only memory depth differs (512/1024/2048/4096 words). This allows direct substitution in existing layouts when buffer depth requirements change, without PCB modification for the SN74V215-15PAG or its siblings.

What is the function of the WXO/HF pin on the SN74V215-15PAG, and how does it behave in single-device mode?

In single-device mode, the WXO/HF pin functions as the half-full flag (HF): it goes low asynchronously when the FIFO reaches ≥50% capacity (i.e., after 256th word written), and returns high on the next RCLK edge once fill level drops below 256. This dual-purpose pin eliminates need for external logic to monitor mid-buffer occupancy - a key diagnostic and flow-control signal unique to the SN74V215-15PAG among TI's DSP-Sync FIFOs.