Texas Instruments SN74V273-7PZA

Overview

SN74V273-7PZA from Texas Instruments is a 16384 × 18 / 32768 × 9, 3.3-V CMOS FIFO memory with independent read/write clocks, 166-MHz operation, 6-ns read/write cycle time, and user-selectable ×9/×18 bus sizing - deployed in high-throughput DSP interfacing and telecom data buffering.

For engineers reviewing the SN74V273-7PZA datasheet, SN74V273-7PZA pinout, SN74V273-7PZA application, or SN74V273-7PZA equivalent, key selection criteria include FWFT vs. standard timing mode configuration, programmable almost-empty/full flag offsets, big/little-endian byte ordering, zero-latency retransmit capability, and 5-V-tolerant input compatibility with mixed-voltage systems.

Technical Context

This FIFO implements dual-clock asynchronous architecture with fully independent RCLK and WCLK domains (0–166 MHz), enabling simultaneous read/write without arbitration logic. It supports both first-word fall-through (FWFT) and standard timing modes, selected at master reset via FWFT/SI pin state.

Bus-width flexibility is achieved through dedicated IW and OW control pins, enabling four configurations: ×18/×18, ×18/×9, ×9/×18, and ×9/×9. Flag logic includes EF/OR, FF/IR, HF, PAE, and PAF - with PAE/PAF programmable via serial or parallel loading and configurable for synchronous/asynchronous assertion using PFM pin.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN74V273-7PZA is housed in an 80-pin Thin Quad Flat Pack (TQFP) package with exposed thermal pad (PZA suffix), compatible with standard surface-mount reflow profiles and IPC-7351B land patterns.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with IDT72V273 and NB3N502, SN74V273-7PZA uniquely combines 5-V-tolerant inputs, FWFT timing, zero-latency retransmit, and full ×9/×18 bus configurability - making it the sole option among the three for high-reliability, mixed-voltage telecom and DSP interface designs requiring adaptive flow control.

Availability

SN74V273-7PZA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for video frame buffering, telecom packet assembly, DSP external memory bridging, industrial protocol gateway, and high-speed data acquisition requiring stable component supply across extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for SN74V273-7PZA 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 50 years of innovation in high-performance timing and interface ICs.

The SN74V273-7PZA belongs to TI's high-speed FIFO memory family, engineered specifically for glueless interfacing with C6x DSPs and demanding real-time data buffering in network infrastructure and digital video systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating frequency of the SN74V273-7PZA?

The SN74V273-7PZA supports up to 166 MHz on both read and write clocks, delivering a 6-ns read/write cycle time. This specification is guaranteed across commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C) and 3.3-V ±0.3-V supply, as confirmed in the SCAS669D datasheet revision February 2003. The SN74V273-7PZA maintains full functionality even with asynchronous clock domains operating at their respective maximum frequencies.

Does the SN74V273-7PZA support 5-V logic inputs?

Yes, the SN74V273-7PZA features 5-V-tolerant inputs, allowing direct connection to 5-V CMOS or TTL signal sources without external level-shifting components. This applies to all control inputs (WEN, REN, MRS, IW, OW, etc.) and data inputs (D0–D17), as explicitly stated in the device description and functional specifications of the SCAS669D datasheet. The SN74V273-7PZA retains full 3.3-V core operation while accepting 5-V signaling on inputs.

How does the first-word fall-through (FWFT) mode work in the SN74V273-7PZA?

In FWFT mode, enabled by asserting FWFT/SI high during master reset, the first word written to an empty SN74V273-7PZA appears on Q0–Q17 after exactly three RCLK rising edges - without requiring REN to be asserted. Subsequent reads still require REN activation. This behavior is hardwired and deterministic, reducing startup latency in burst-oriented protocols. The SN74V273-7PZA uses OR (not EF) to indicate output readiness in this mode.

Can the SN74V273-7PZA be used to expand memory depth beyond its native capacity?

Yes, the SN74V273-7PZA supports depth expansion via daisy-chaining in FWFT mode: the Q outputs of one device connect directly to the D inputs of the next, with shared RCLK/WCLK and synchronized control signals. No external logic is needed because FWFT ensures seamless handoff of the first word from upstream to downstream FIFO. This capability is documented in the SCAS669D datasheet section "Depth Expansion" and applies identically to the SN74V273-7PZA.

What is the function of the RM pin on the SN74V273-7PZA?

The RM (Retransmit Latency Mode) pin selects zero-latency or normal-latency retransmit behavior during master reset: a low RM enables zero-latency mode, where the first retransmitted word appears on Qn at the same RCLK edge that samples RT low; a high RM selects normal latency, requiring an additional RCLK cycle. This setting persists until next master reset and is independent of FWFT/standard mode selection. The SN74V273-7PZA implements this function per the SCAS669D timing diagrams Figures 13 and 14.