Texas Instruments TLC2543IN

Overview

TLC2543IN from Texas Instruments is a 12-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with serial interface, 11-channel analog multiplexer, and on-chip sample-and-hold. It delivers 10 µs conversion time, ±1 LSB linearity error, and operates across –40°C to 85°C. Used in industrial sensor data acquisition systems interfacing with microcontrollers via SPI-compatible 3-wire serial protocol.

For engineers reviewing the TLC2543IN datasheet, TLC2543IN pinout, TLC2543IN application, or TLC2543IN equivalent, key selection considerations include its programmable output data length (8/12/16 bits), unipolar/bipolar operation mode, MSB/LSB-first configuration, built-in self-test voltages, and differential reference input architecture enabling ratiometric measurements.

Technical Context

The TLC2543IN implements a switched-capacitor SAR architecture synchronized to an external I/O CLOCK (up to 4.1 MHz), with automatic sample-and-hold triggered on the fourth falling edge of the clock sequence. Conversion begins after the final I/O CLOCK falling edge, with EOC signaling completion.

Its 14-channel internal multiplexer selects among 11 analog inputs (AIN0–AIN10) or three self-test reference voltages. Control is delivered via an 8-bit serial word - 4-bit channel address, 2-bit data length select, 1-bit MSB/LSB order, and 1-bit unipolar/bipolar mode - shifted in on rising clock edges.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 20-pin plastic DIP (N package), through-hole mounting compatible with standard PCB layouts and socket-based prototyping.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 12-bit serial ADC applications.

Compared with ADS7822U and MCP3201-I/P, the TLC2543IN provides unique integration of 11-channel multiplexing, self-test, and configurable output format - making it optimal for industrial systems requiring channel flexibility, runtime validation, and deterministic timing without added components.

Availability

TLC2543IN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial process monitoring, automated test equipment, motor drive current sensing, and environmental data logging requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for TLC2543IN 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 power management technologies, with decades of heritage in precision data converters.

The TLC2543IN belongs to TI's legacy precision ADC product line, designed specifically for industrial and instrumentation applications demanding robust serial interface, multi-channel flexibility, and built-in diagnostic capability.

FAQ

What is the maximum I/O CLOCK frequency supported by the TLC2543IN?

The TLC2543IN supports an I/O CLOCK frequency up to 4.1 MHz under recommended operating conditions (VCC = 4.5–5.5 V). This timing enables the minimum 10 µs conversion time and ensures reliable address latching, sample initiation, and data transfer. Exceeding this frequency may cause timing violations, incomplete sampling, or invalid conversion results - always verify setup/hold times per Figure 4 and Figure 5 in the SLAS079F datasheet when designing the host interface for the TLC2543IN.

Does the TLC2543IN require an external sample-and-hold circuit?

No, the TLC2543IN includes an inherent sample-and-hold function that activates automatically during the I/O cycle - specifically beginning on the fourth falling edge of the I/O CLOCK and completing after the final falling edge. This eliminates the need for external S/H components, simplifying design and reducing board area. The internal S/H holds the selected analog input voltage while the successive-approximation conversion proceeds, ensuring accuracy even with moderate source impedances (<50 Ω) and 60 pF input capacitance - a key feature confirmed in the functional description and timing diagrams of the TLC2543IN datasheet.

How does the TLC2543IN handle bipolar input signals?

The TLC2543IN supports bipolar operation via its unipolar/bipolar output mode bit (D0 in the 8-bit control word). When enabled, it outputs signed binary data referenced to VREF+/2 - meaning 0 V input yields code 0x800 (2048), negative inputs produce codes below 2048, and positive inputs yield codes above. This mode requires proper biasing of the analog input (e.g., level-shifting) and matching REF– to VREF+/2. The TLC2543IN's differential reference architecture ensures accurate center-point definition without external op-amps - a capability explicitly documented in the "Unipolar or Bipolar Output Operation" section of the SLAS079F datasheet.

Can the TLC2543IN perform self-calibration or offset/gain correction?

No, the TLC2543IN does not provide on-chip self-calibration, auto-zero, or programmable gain/offset correction. Its accuracy relies on factory trimming and stable external references. However, it does offer three built-in self-test voltages (0 V, VREF+/2, VREF+) accessible via specific address codes (1100b, 1011b, 1101b), allowing software-based verification of ADC functionality and reference integrity. System-level calibration (e.g., two-point linear correction) must be implemented externally in the host MCU firmware using known input stimuli - a limitation clearly stated in the "PRINCIPLES OF OPERATION" and "Self-Test Modes" sections of the TLC2543IN datasheet.

What package type is used for the TLC2543IN part number?

According to the official Texas Instruments datasheet SLAS079F, the TLC2543IN is packaged in a 20-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), designated as the "N" package. This through-hole package features 0.3-inch row spacing and is compatible with standard DIP sockets and wave-solder assembly processes. The "N" suffix in the part number explicitly denotes this PDIP variant - distinct from surface-mount options like DB (SOIC), DW (TSSOP), or FN (PLCC) used for other members of the TLC2543 family. No alternate package variants are assigned to the TLC2543IN designation.