Texas Instruments TLC0820ACDB

Overview

TLC0820ACDB from Texas Instruments is an Advanced LinCMOS™ 8-bit analog-to-digital converter using modified flash architecture, featuring 1.18 µs conversion time, ±1 LSB total unadjusted error, differential reference inputs, and parallel microprocessor interface. It operates from a single 5-V supply and integrates on-chip track-and-hold for continuous signal sampling up to 100 mV/µs slew rate - used in real-time data acquisition systems interfacing with 8-bit microcontrollers.

For engineers reviewing the TLC0820ACDB datasheet, TLC0820ACDB pinout, TLC0820ACDB application, or TLC0820ACDB equivalent, key selection criteria include its read/write-mode flexibility (MODE-selectable), 2.5 µs max access time in read mode, TTL-compatible 3-state outputs, no external clock requirement, and SSOP-20 package compatibility with industrial temperature range (0°C to 70°C).

Technical Context

The TLC0820ACDB implements a two-stage modified flash architecture: first, a 4-bit flash ADC quantizes the MSBs; then a precision 4-bit DAC generates a reconstructed analog level, and a second 4-bit flash ADC resolves the residual error to produce the full 8-bit result. This architecture enables high speed without external timing components.

It supports two distinct interface modes: read-only mode (MODE low) where WR/RDY functions as a ready output, and write-read mode (MODE high) where WR/RDY initiates conversion. Both modes use CS, RD, and 3-state digital outputs (D0–D7), with INT signaling conversion completion and OFLW indicating overrange conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SSOP-20 (DB), 7.4 mm × 5.6 mm body, 0.65 mm lead pitch, 2.0 mm max height, RoHS-compliant NIPDAU finish, MSL Level-1.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-bit parallel-output ADC applications.

Compared with ADC0820C/CC and AD7820K/B/T, the TLC0820ACDB delivers superior speed (1.18 µs vs. 10 µs), eliminates external clock dependency, reduces supply current by ~35%, and offers modern SSOP packaging - making it optimal for high-throughput, space-constrained embedded systems.

Availability

TLC0820ACDB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial data acquisition, embedded microcontroller interfaces, and test equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for TLC0820ACDB 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 technologies with decades of precision data converter innovation.

The TLC0820ACDB belongs to TI's legacy LinCMOS™ precision ADC family, designed specifically for high-speed, low-power, microprocessor-centric analog digitization in commercial-grade instrumentation and control systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum analog input slew rate supported by the TLC0820ACDB?

The TLC0820ACDB supports analog input signals with slew rates up to 100 mV/µs due to its integrated 100 ns track-and-hold circuit. This specification is confirmed in the datasheet's PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION section and enables direct sampling of fast transients without external sample-hold components. The TLC0820ACDB maintains accuracy under these conditions across its full operating temperature range (0°C to 70°C).

Does the TLC0820ACDB require an external clock or oscillator?

No, the TLC0820ACDB does not require an external clock or oscillator. Its modified flash architecture uses internal timing generation, enabling autonomous conversion upon RD or WR/RDY assertion. This is explicitly stated in the device description and verified in the "No External Clock or Oscillator Components Required" feature list. The TLC0820ACDB achieves 1.18 µs conversion time using only its internal control logic and analog comparators.

What are the logic voltage levels compatible with the TLC0820ACDB digital interface?

The TLC0820ACDB features TTL-compatible 3-state outputs and accepts TTL-level inputs: VIH = 2 V min (CS, WR/RDY, RD), VIH = 3.5 V min (MODE), VIL = 0.8 V max (CS, WR/RDY, RD), and VIL = 1.5 V max (MODE). These values are specified in the RECOMMENDED OPERATING CONDITIONS table and validated across the full 0°C to 70°C range. The TLC0820ACDB interfaces directly with standard 5-V microcontrollers without level-shifting.

How does the MODE pin affect the TLC0820ACDB interface timing?

The MODE pin selects between two distinct timing protocols: when low, the TLC0820ACDB operates in read-only mode (WR/RDY becomes open-drain RDY output); when high, it enters write-read mode (WR/RDY acts as write strobe). Timing parameters differ significantly - e.g., access time drops from 2.5 µs (read mode) to 70–120 ns (write-read mode with early RD). These differences are documented in the OPERATING CHARACTERISTICS table and waveform figures 1–4 of the TLC0820ACDB datasheet.

Can the TLC0820ACDB be used in cascaded configurations for higher resolution?

Yes, the TLC0820ACDB supports cascading via its OFLW (overflow) output to achieve extended resolution such as 9-bit or 10-bit. When the analog input exceeds REF+, OFLW goes low, signaling the need to increment a higher-order counter or trigger a secondary ADC. Figure 6 in the datasheet illustrates a 9-bit configuration using two TLC0820ACDB devices. This capability is intrinsic to the TLC0820ACDB's architecture and requires no additional external logic beyond basic gating.