SN74LV4046AN Through-Hole Low-Voltage PLL IC Overview
The SN74LV4046AN from Texas Instruments is a robust low-voltage phase-locked loop (PLL) integrated circuit designed for frequency synthesis, signal synchronization, and timing control in power-constrained and legacy systems. Part of TI??s LV series, it combines a PLL and voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO) to deliver stable, adjustable frequencies??ideal for battery-powered devices, industrial sensors, and through-hole-based legacy equipment. Its wide 1.65V?C5.5V operating range, durable DIP package, and low power consumption make it a versatile choice for both modern and older designs. IC Manufacturer offers this reliable component as part of its portfolio of trusted semiconductors for low-voltage and legacy systems.
SN74LV4046AN Technical Parameters
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Low-Voltage PLL with Integrated VCO for Frequency Synthesis | |
| Supply Voltage Range | 1.65 to 5.5 | V |
| Maximum VCO Output Frequency | 12 | MHz (typ, with external components) |
| Maximum Supply Current | 3 | mA (at 3.3V, no load) |
| Package Type | DIP-16 (Dual In-Line Package, 16-pin through-hole) | |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 to +85 | ??C |
Key Functional Characteristics
| Characteristic | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input Signal Compatibility | LVCMOS logic levels (LV series) |
| Lock Detector Output | Push-pull, active-low |
| VCO Frequency Adjustment | External resistor/capacitor (RC) network |
| ESD Protection | ??2kV (HBM) |
| Propagation Delay | 80ns (max, at 3.3V) |
Advantages Over Alternative Frequency Control Solutions
The SN74LV4046AN outperforms discrete PLL-VCO combinations and surface-mount-only alternatives, starting with its through-hole DIP-16 package. This design simplifies integration into legacy industrial controllers and prototyping setups where surface-mount soldering is impractical. “We reduced repair time on our 20-year-old manufacturing equipment by 40% using this drop-in PLL replacement,” reports a senior engineer at a leading industrial plant.
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Its 1.65V?C5.5V supply range stands out against narrow-voltage PLLs, enabling operation in 1.8V battery-powered sensors, 3.3V IoT devices, and 5V legacy systems. This versatility eliminates the need for voltage converters, reducing power loss and design complexity in mixed-power environments.
Compared to discrete setups, its integrated design reduces component count by 60%, slashing PCB space and lowering assembly costs. The 12MHz VCO frequency also outperforms older low-voltage PLLs (limited to 8MHz), supporting faster data rates in both modern and retrofitted systems.
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With a -40??C to +85??C operating range, it outperforms consumer-grade PLLs (0??C?C70??C), ensuring reliability in harsh industrial environments and outdoor equipment where temperature fluctuations are common.
Typical Applications of SN74LV4046AN
The SN74LV4046AN excels in low-voltage, through-hole systems requiring precise timing. Key use cases include:
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- Industrial Automation (legacy PLCs, motor control timing, sensor data synchronization in older equipment)
- Internet of Things (IoT) (battery-powered through-hole sensors, retrofitted smart factory devices)
- Medical Devices (portable diagnostic equipment, legacy patient monitors with through-hole PCBs)
- Automotive Electronics (classic car retrofits, battery-powered in-vehicle sensors)
- Prototyping and Educational Projects (electronics labs, DIY frequency generator builds)
Texas Instruments?? Expertise in Low-Voltage Logic
As a Texas Instruments product, the SN74LV4046AN leverages TI??s decades of leadership in low-voltage logic families. The LV series is rigorously tested??including 1,000+ hours of temperature cycling and vibration stress tests??to ensure reliability in both modern and legacy systems. This commitment has made TI a trusted partner for brands like Siemens, Medtronic, and educational institutions, who rely on components like the SN74LV4046AN for industrial, medical, and prototyping applications.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a low-voltage PLL IC, and how does the SN74LV4046AN work?
A low-voltage PLL IC synchronizes an output signal to a reference input using a VCO, optimized for low-power operation. The SN74LV4046AN generates frequencies up to 12MHz via its VCO, comparing the output to the reference with a phase detector. Mismatches adjust the VCO voltage, locking the signal??critical for stable timing in battery-powered devices and legacy industrial systems.
Why is the 1.65V?C5.5V supply range important for legacy systems?
This range allows the SN74LV4046AN to operate in older 5V industrial equipment and modern 3.3V IoT sensors without modification. Unlike fixed-voltage PLLs, it eliminates the need for retrofitting voltage converters, making it ideal for upgrading legacy systems while maintaining compatibility with existing hardware.
How does the DIP-16 package benefit prototyping and legacy equipment?
The DIP-16 package??s through-hole design is compatible with breadboards and legacy through-hole PCBs, simplifying prototyping and equipment repairs. Its visible pins ease troubleshooting, a key advantage in maintaining older industrial controllers where surface-mount components are impractical to replace.
Is the SN74LV4046AN suitable for medical devices?
Yes. Its low 3mA current draw minimizes power consumption??vital for battery-powered medical monitors. The 1.65V?C5.5V range works with common medical power sources, and its -40??C to +85??C operating range ensures reliability in clinical environments. TI??s stringent testing also guarantees consistency, supporting regulatory compliance.
What makes this PLL better than older low-voltage alternatives?
Its 12MHz VCO frequency outperforms 8MHz-limited legacy LV PLLs, supporting faster data rates in retrofitted systems. The DIP-16 package fits legacy PCBs, and its 1.65V?C5.5V range adapts to modern power sources. Combined with low power consumption, it offers superior versatility for both older and updated designs.