Texas Instruments TLC0838ING4

Overview

TLC0838ING4 from Texas Instruments is an 8-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated 8-channel analog multiplexer, serial control interface, and ratiometric operation capability. It supports single-ended, differential, and pseudodifferential input configurations, operates from a single 5-V supply, delivers ±1 LSB total unadjusted error, and achieves 32 µs conversion time at 250 kHz clock frequency - used in industrial sensor signal conditioning and microcontroller-based data acquisition systems.

For engineers reviewing the TLC0838ING4 datasheet, TLC0838ING4 pinout, TLC0838ING4 application, or TLC0838ING4 equivalent, key selection considerations include its 20-pin PDIP package, –40°C to 85°C industrial temperature range, SE-controlled LSB-first/MSB-first output mode, COM terminal for pseudodifferential referencing, and compatibility with TTL/MOS logic levels without external level-shifting.

Technical Context

The TLC0838ING4 implements a sample-data-comparator architecture with internal resistive ladder and SAR logic. Its multiplexer-addressing sequence accepts a 3- to 4-bit assignment word via DI to select channel (CH0–CH7), input polarity (+/–), and configuration (SGL/DIF/ODD/EVEN), enabling flexible analog front-end routing without external switches.

Conversion initiation requires CS low followed by clocked start bit and address; SARS goes high during conversion and DO outputs MSB-first data (or LSB-first when SE is asserted low). The COM terminal serves as common-mode reference for all channels in pseudodifferential mode, supporting bias-shifted sensor interfaces where analog ground differs from digital ground.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The TLC0838ING4 is supplied in a 20-pin plastic DIP (N) package with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is located at the left end of the top row, identified by a notch or dot marking.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar analog-to-digital conversion applications.

Compared with ADC0838CCN, TLC0838ING4 offers identical conversion performance but improved long-term availability and updated packaging compliance; versus TLC0838CPW, it provides through-hole assembly flexibility and simplified prototyping without reflow infrastructure.

Availability

TLC0838ING4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process monitoring, automotive sensor hubs, and energy meter front-ends requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for TLC0838ING4 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 connectivity technologies, with decades of expertise in precision data converters and industrial-grade ICs.

The TLC0838 series was designed for cost-effective, microprocessor-compatible data acquisition in resource-constrained embedded systems - emphasizing software-configurable analog routing, serial interface simplicity, and robust operation across industrial temperature ranges.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range specified for the TLC0838ING4?

The TLC0838ING4 is characterized for operation from –40°C to +85°C, meeting industrial-grade environmental requirements. This range is confirmed in the device's "recommended operating conditions" table and applies to all electrical specifications unless otherwise noted. The "I" suffix denotes the industrial temperature grade, and the "NG4" suffix indicates the PDIP package with lead finish compliant to RoHS standards. Performance remains stable across this full range without derating.

Does the TLC0838ING4 require an external reference voltage, or can it operate ratiometrically?

The TLC0838ING4 supports both modes: it can accept an external reference voltage on the REF pin (0 V to 5 V), or operate ratiometrically using VCC as the reference. When VCC serves as REF, the full-scale code corresponds to the actual supply voltage - ideal for systems where supply variation is tracked or compensated in firmware. No external components are needed for ratiometric use, simplifying BOM and layout.

How does the COM pin function in pseudodifferential mode on the TLC0838ING4?

In pseudodifferential mode, the COM pin acts as a common-mode reference for all eight analog inputs (CH0–CH7). Each channel is treated as the positive input relative to COM, enabling measurement of signals referenced to a non-zero potential - such as sensors biased at 2.5 V. This avoids level-shifting circuitry and maintains common-mode rejection. The COM voltage must remain within –0.3 V to VCC + 0.3 V and is internally isolated from DGTL GND and ANLG GND.

Can the TLC0838ING4 interface directly with a microcontroller's GPIO without level shifters?

Yes - the TLC0838ING4 features TTL- and MOS-compatible logic thresholds: VIH ≥ 2.0 V and VIL ≤ 0.8 V at VCC = 5 V. Its DI, DO, CS, CLK, and SARS pins operate natively with standard 5-V microcontrollers (e.g., 8051, PIC18, AVR) and require no level-shifting. Input currents are ≤ ±1 µA, and output drive strength (±26 mA sink/source) exceeds typical MCU I/O capabilities, ensuring robust signal integrity.

What is the purpose of the SE pin on the TLC0838ING4, and how does it affect data output?

The SE (Serial Output Format Select) pin determines whether conversion results are output MSB-first (SE = high) or LSB-first (SE = low). When SE is low before CS activation, the 9-bit shift register outputs the LSB first - useful for microcontrollers with limited shift-register depth or specific firmware expectations. The mode must be set prior to initiating conversion; changing SE mid-sequence has no effect. This dual-format capability increases firmware flexibility without hardware modification.