TCA9517DGKR

• I2C and SMBus Level-Translating Buffer from Texas Instruments
• 900mV to 5.5V Supply Range for Translation Between Two Bus Voltage Domains
• 2 channels, 2 bits, 2 Inputs and 2 outputs; 6mA Output Current
• 400k Hz Maximum frequency; 110ns Propagation delay, 100ns Turn-on Delay
• Buffers Bus Capacitance So Segments Can Be Isolated from One Another
• 8-Pin VSSOP, 3mm X 3mm X 1.07mm; -40°C to 85°C; Lead free, RoHS compliant, Tape and Reel

The TCA9517DGKR from Texas Instruments is a level-translating buffer for I2C and SMBus, operating with supplies from 900mV to 5.5V and rated for a 400k Hz maximum frequency. It provides 2 channels and 2 bits with 2 inputs and 2 outputs, 6mA output current, a 110ns propagation delay, and a 100ns turn-on delay. A buffer of this type isolates the capacitance of one bus segment from another while translating between the two supply domains, so a long or heavily loaded I2C branch does not degrade the signal on the host side. The TCA9517DGKR is supplied in an 8-pin VSSOP measuring 3mm by 3mm with a 1.07mm height, is rated for -40°C to 85°C, and is lead free and RoHS compliant in tape and reel.

I2C buffers are placed where a bus has to leave the board or reach beyond the capacitance budget of the standard: backplane and riser connections, cable runs to remote sensors and displays, and hot-swappable modules that must be isolated from the live bus. The level translation function simultaneously bridges a low-voltage controller to 3.3V or 5V peripherals without a separate translator. Typical designs include server and networking management buses, industrial control racks, and modular instrumentation. Buyers are typically server, networking, and industrial equipment OEMs and their contract manufacturers.