Texas Instruments SN75469N

Overview

SN75469N from Texas Instruments is a 7-channel high-voltage NPN Darlington transistor array with 500-mA per-channel sink capability, 100-V collector-emitter rating, integrated common-cathode clamp diodes, and 10.5-kΩ input base resistors enabling direct interface with 6–15-V CMOS/PMOS logic. It serves as an industrial-grade relay, lamp, and solenoid driver in PLC I/O modules and factory automation controllers.

For engineers reviewing the SN75469N datasheet, SN75469N pinout, SN75469N application, or SN75469N equivalent, key selection considerations include its 10.5-kΩ input resistor value (vs. 2.7 kΩ in SN75468), 100-V output voltage rating, 500-mA continuous sink current per channel, thermal derating curves for PDIP package, and compatibility with inductive loads requiring flyback protection.

Technical Context

The SN75469N implements seven independent NPN Darlington pairs-each with cascaded gain stages yielding β² > 10⁴-configured as open-collector, common-emitter switches. Its 10.5-kΩ series base resistors limit input current to ≤1.45 mA at 12 V, enabling direct drive from higher-voltage CMOS without external logic-level translation.

Each channel integrates a cathode-connected clamp diode tied to the COM pin, allowing safe energy dissipation during turn-off of inductive loads up to 100 V. The device operates across –40°C to 125°C junction temperature, with absolute maximum ratings specifying 100-V V_CE, ±2.5-A total emitter current, and 150°C T_J.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SN75469N uses a 16-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP-N) with 19.30 mm × 6.35 mm body size and 2.54 mm lead pitch. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or bevel on the package top edge.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Darlington array applications.

Compared with ULN2004A and SN75468N, the SN75469N uniquely supports 100-V inductive loads while accepting 6–15 V logic inputs - making it the only option among the three for high-voltage industrial control where both voltage headroom and logic compatibility are required.

Availability

SN75469N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial relay control, PLC output modules, automated test equipment, and factory automation interfaces requiring stable component supply over extended product lifecycles.

Supply support for SN75469N 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 devices with over 50 years of industrial-grade component development.

The SN75469N belongs to TI's legacy Darlington transistor array family, designed specifically for robust, high-voltage interfacing between low-power logic and industrial electromechanical loads.

FAQ

What is the maximum continuous sink current per channel for SN75469N?

The SN75469N is rated for 500 mA continuous collector current per Darlington channel under recommended operating conditions. Derating is required above 25°C ambient - see Figure 5 in the datasheet for duty-cycle and temperature-dependent limits. This rating applies when using the PDIP package with adequate PCB copper area for heat dissipation.

Can SN75469N drive inductive loads without external flyback diodes?

Yes, the SN75469N includes integrated common-cathode clamp diodes connected to the COM pin. When COM is tied to the inductive load's positive supply rail, these diodes provide a safe path for flyback current during turn-off - eliminating the need for external diodes in standard configurations.

How does SN75469N differ from SN75468N in terms of input compatibility?

The SN75469N uses 10.5-kΩ internal base resistors, enabling direct interface with 6–15 V CMOS/PMOS logic and limiting input current to ≤1.45 mA at 12 V. In contrast, SN75468N uses 2.7-kΩ resistors optimized for 3.3/5 V TTL/CMOS, drawing significantly higher input current at 12 V - potentially exceeding logic driver capabilities.

What is the purpose of the E pin on SN75469N?

The E (Emitter) pin is the common emitter connection shared by all seven Darlington pairs. It must be connected to the system ground or low-side return path to complete the current path for each output channel. Unlike the COM pin, E is not used for flyback protection - that function resides solely at the COM node.

Is SN75469N RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, SN75469N is RoHS compliant with lead-free (NIPDAU) terminal finish, as confirmed in TI's Package Option Addendum. The PDIP package carries no moisture sensitivity level (MSL) rating due to its through-hole construction, and it is approved for standard reflow and wave-solder processes.