Texas Instruments TLV0838CDWR

Overview

TLV0838CDWR from Texas Instruments is an 8-bit successive-approximation analog-to-digital converter (ADC) with integrated 8-channel multiplexer and serial interface. It operates from 2.7 V to 3.6 V, delivers ±1 LSB total unadjusted error, supports single-ended/differential/pseudodifferential input configurations, and achieves 32 µs conversion time at 250 kHz clock - used in sensor signal acquisition for industrial monitoring systems.

For engineers reviewing the TLV0838CDWR datasheet, TLV0838CDWR pinout, TLV0838CDWR application, or TLV0838CDWR equivalent, key selection considerations include its 20-pin SOIC (DW) package, ratiometric operation with VCC or external reference, software-configurable channel addressing via serial DI/DO, and compatibility with TTL/MOS logic levels in microprocessor-interfaced data acquisition designs.

Technical Context

The TLV0838CDWR implements a sample-data-comparator architecture with internal SAR logic and resistive ladder network. Its multiplexer supports eight analog inputs (CH0–CH7) plus COM terminal, enabling pseudodifferential mode where COM serves as common negative reference across all channels.

Serial communication uses a start-bit + 3–4-bit address word protocol on DI, with MSB-first or LSB-first output selectable via SE pin. Conversion is initiated by CS low, synchronized to CLK edges, and includes automatic 1-clock-cycle multiplexer settling delay before SAR comparison begins.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV0838CDWR is housed in a 20-pin SOIC (DW) package with 0.300-inch body width and standard JEDEC outline.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLV0838CDWR, TLV0838CPW offers identical functionality in a smaller TSSOP package ideal for high-density layouts, while ADC0838CCN provides drop-in compatibility in through-hole designs but with reduced thermal performance and larger board footprint.

Availability

TLV0838CDWR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, automotive cabin monitoring systems, and portable medical instrumentation requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for TLV0838CDWR 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 company specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in data converters, power management, and interface ICs.

The TLV0838CDWR belongs to TI's TLV08xx family of low-voltage serial ADCs, designed specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained applications needing flexible input configuration and simple microcontroller integration.

FAQ

What is the maximum clock frequency supported by TLV0838CDWR?

The TLV0838CDWR supports up to 600 kHz clock frequency when operated at VCC = 3.3 V. At lower supply voltages (e.g., 2.7 V), the maximum recommended clock frequency is 250 kHz. Exceeding these limits may cause timing violations or conversion errors, as specified in the recommended operating conditions table of the SLAS147B datasheet.

Does TLV0838CDWR require an external reference voltage?

No, TLV0838CDWR does not require an external reference voltage. It can operate ratiometrically using VCC as the reference, or accept an external voltage on the REF pin. When using VCC reference, the input range is 0 V to VCC; when using external REF, the full-scale range becomes 0 V to REF, enabling precise scaling for sub-rail analog signals.

How is differential input configured on TLV0838CDWR?

Differential input on TLV0838CDWR is configured via the serial address word sent to the DI pin. Adjacent channel pairs (e.g., CH0/CH1, CH2/CH3) are assigned as differential inputs, with polarity determined by the ODD/EVEN and SGL/DIF bits. The functional description confirms differential mode is only valid between adjacent channels, and polarity assignment is software-controlled per conversion cycle.

What is the purpose of the COM pin on TLV0838CDWR?

The COM pin on TLV0838CDWR serves as the common analog reference for pseudodifferential input mode. In this mode, COM establishes a shared negative input voltage for all eight channels (CH0–CH7), allowing each channel to be measured as a positive differential input relative to that common potential - useful when sensor circuits are biased above ground.

Can TLV0838CDWR interface directly with a 5-V microcontroller?

Yes, TLV0838CDWR inputs and outputs are compatible with both TTL and MOS logic families, and its absolute maximum input voltage rating is VCC + 0.3 V. When powered at 3.3 V, it safely accepts 5-V logic-high signals on CS, DI, CLK, and SE pins, and its VOH/VOL specifications confirm robust interfacing without external level shifters in mixed-voltage systems.