Texas Instruments TLC0834CDR

Overview

TLC0834CDR from Texas Instruments is a 4-channel, 8-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter with serial control interface, ratiometric operation capability, and single 5-V supply support. It features ±1 LSB total unadjusted error, 32 µs conversion time at 250 kHz clock, and software-configurable single-ended or differential input modes for industrial sensor interfacing.

For engineers reviewing the TLC0834CDR datasheet, TLC0834CDR pinout, TLC0834CDR application, or TLC0834CDR equivalent, key selection considerations include its SOIC-14 package, 0°C to 70°C operating range, serial SPI-compatible interface timing, and multiplexer-addressing logic for channel and polarity configuration.

Technical Context

The TLC0834CDR implements a sample-data-comparator architecture with an internal 8-bit SAR engine and 4-channel analog multiplexer controlled via 5-bit serial address word. Channel selection, input polarity (±), and single-ended/differential mode are all determined by the shift-register-loaded address bits during CS low assertion.

Its serial interface uses DI for address/command input and DO for MSB-first data output, with SARS indicating conversion progress. The device supports TTL/MOS-level compatibility, operates ratiometrically using VCC or an external REF voltage, and enables remote analog sensing via noise-immune serial link instead of analog signal routing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOIC-14 (D package), 14-pin small-outline integrated circuit with 1.27 mm pitch, RoHS-compliant NIPDAU lead finish, MSL Level-1 rating.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with ADC0834CN and TLC0834IDR, the TLC0834CDR offers the lowest-cost commercial-grade solution in surface-mount SOIC-14, balancing PCB area savings, production scalability, and verified 0°C–70°C performance without reference regulation overhead.

Availability

TLC0834CDR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interface, embedded data acquisition, and automotive body control applications requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TLC0834CDR 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 connectivity solutions with deep expertise in data conversion and mixed-signal design.

The TLC0834 product line was designed for cost-sensitive, microprocessor-connected analog sensing applications where serial interface, multiplexing, and ratiometric operation simplify system architecture.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by the TLC0834CDR?

The TLC0834CDR supports clock frequencies from 10 kHz to 600 kHz per its recommended operating conditions. At 250 kHz, it achieves a guaranteed 32 µs conversion time. Higher frequencies reduce conversion latency but require careful attention to setup/hold timing (tsu = 350 ns, th = 90 ns) and may increase power consumption slightly. The device remains functional up to 600 kHz, though timing margins shrink near the upper limit.

Does the TLC0834CDR require an external reference voltage?

No, the TLC0834CDR does not require an external reference voltage. It operates ratiometrically using VCC as the reference, enabling accurate digitization of 0–5 V inputs with a single 5-V supply. However, the REF pin can accept an external precision reference (e.g., 2.5 V or 4.096 V) to encode smaller analog spans across the full 8-bit range, improving effective resolution for sub-5V signals.

How is differential input configured on the TLC0834CDR?

Differential input on the TLC0834CDR is configured via the 5-bit serial address word loaded during CS low. Adjacent channel pairs (CH0/CH1 and CH2/CH3) support differential mode, with polarity assigned per pair. For example, setting the ODD/EVEN and SGL/DIF bits appropriately selects CH0(+)–CH1(–) or CH1(+)–CH0(–). The functional description confirms polarity reversal is supported, and the MUX-address table defines exact bit combinations for each configuration.

What is the purpose of the SARS pin on the TLC0834CDR?

The SARS (Start/Busy) pin on the TLC0834CDR is an open-drain status output that goes high when conversion begins and returns low upon completion. It provides hardware handshaking for synchronous readout-allowing the host processor to poll SARS instead of relying solely on fixed timing delays. This ensures robust operation across temperature and voltage variations, especially when interfacing with slower or variable-speed controllers.

Can the TLC0834CDR operate with a 3.3-V supply?

No, the TLC0834CDR is specified for 4.5 V to 5.5 V supply operation and is not rated for 3.3-V operation. Its absolute maximum ratings define VCC ≤ 6.5 V, but the recommended minimum is 4.5 V. Attempting 3.3-V operation risks failure to meet timing (e.g., clock setup/hold), degraded analog performance (increased INL/DNL), or non-functional conversion. For 3.3-V systems, consider newer TI ADCs like the ADS7822 or ADS7828, which are explicitly characterized at 3.3 V.