Texas Instruments TLC3704CNS

Overview

TLC3704CNS from Texas Instruments is a quad micropower LinCMOS voltage comparator IC designed for single-supply operation (3 V to 16 V), delivering 2.7 µs typical propagation delay (t_PLH) with 5-mV overdrive, ±8 mA push-pull CMOS output drive, and 200 µW typical supply power at 5 V. It serves as a low-power, high-speed replacement for LM339 in battery-powered sensor interfaces and precision threshold detection circuits.

For engineers reviewing the TLC3704CNS datasheet, TLC3704CNS pinout, TLC3704CNS application, or TLC3704CNS equivalent, key selection considerations include its commercial-temperature-rated (0°C to 70°C) performance, rail-to-rail input capability (VICR = 0 to V_DD−1.5 V), ultra-low input bias current (5 pA typ at 25°C), and absence of external pullup resistors due to integrated push-pull outputs.

Technical Context

The TLC3704CNS implements four independent comparators using Texas Instruments' LinCMOS process, combining high input impedance (>10¹² Ω), stable input offset voltage (≤5 mV max at 25°C), and robust ESD protection (2-kV HBM). Each comparator features differential inputs with common-mode range extending to within 1.5 V of V_DD and ground.

Its push-pull CMOS output stage eliminates reliance on external pullup resistors-enabling direct capacitive load driving (e.g., 50 pF) while maintaining fast response and minimizing board area and power loss. Input protection circuitry clamps overvoltage transients via internal zener and MOSFET structures without degrading dc accuracy.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-pin plastic DIP (N package), through-hole mounting, 0.3-inch width, RoHS-compliant lead finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad voltage comparator applications.

Compared with LM339N, TLC3704CNS reduces system power by 96% and eliminates pullup components; versus TLC3702CDR, it delivers full quad functionality in one DIP package-ideal for prototyping and through-hole production where density is secondary to simplicity and testability.

Availability

TLC3704CNS is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, battery management subsystems, and power supply monitoring applications requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle embedded programs.

Supply support for TLC3704CNS 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 and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in precision analog IC design and high-reliability manufacturing.

The TLC3704CNS belongs to TI's LinCMOS comparator family, engineered specifically for micropower, single-supply operation in sensor signal conditioning, power monitoring, and industrial control systems where input impedance and offset stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating supply voltage for the TLC3704CNS?

The TLC3704CNS supports a supply voltage range of 3 V to 16 V, with absolute maximum rating at 18 V. Operation above 16 V is not recommended and may violate recommended operating conditions, potentially affecting long-term reliability and parametric performance such as input offset drift or output saturation behavior. Always observe derating guidelines per the Dissipation Rating Table for ambient temperatures above 25°C.

Does the TLC3704CNS require external pullup resistors on its outputs?

No, the TLC3704CNS does not require external pullup resistors because it features a push-pull CMOS output stage capable of sourcing and sinking up to ±8 mA. This architecture directly drives capacitive loads (e.g., 50 pF) and interfaces natively with TTL and CMOS logic families, eliminating board space, BOM cost, and power loss associated with discrete pullups - a key differentiator from open-collector comparators like the LM339.

What is the input common-mode voltage range of the TLC3704CNS?

The TLC3704CNS has a guaranteed common-mode input voltage range of 0 V to V_DD − 1.5 V across its full operating temperature range (0°C to 70°C). At 25°C, this extends to 0 V to V_DD − 1 V. This rail-to-rail input capability enables direct interfacing with sensors and signals referenced to ground or near V_DD, without level-shifting circuitry - a critical advantage in low-voltage and battery-operated systems.

How does the TLC3704CNS handle electrostatic discharge (ESD)?

The TLC3704CNS integrates patented TI ESD-protection circuitry on all pins, qualified to withstand 2-kV per Human Body Model (HBM) and 200 V per Charged Device Model (CDM). This protection uses a dual-MOSFET/zener structure that shunts transient energy without introducing significant leakage (<1 nA post-ESD), preserving the device's picoampere-level input bias current specification and ensuring robustness during automated assembly and field deployment.

Can the TLC3704CNS operate from a 3.3-V supply?

Yes, the TLC3704CNS is fully specified to operate from 3 V to 16 V, including 3.3 V. At 3.3 V, it maintains functional performance: output swing remains rail-to-rail (typically 0.2 V to 3.1 V), propagation delay increases modestly (to ~3.5 µs typ at 5-mV overdrive), and supply current stays below 100 µA. Its LinCMOS process ensures stable offset and CMRR even at minimum supply, making it suitable for modern low-voltage embedded systems.