Texas Instruments

PCA9546APW  

Specialized Backplane Connectors

PCA9546APW Description

The PCA9546APW from Texas Instruments is a specialized I²C/SMBus translating switch designed to facilitate communication between multiple I²C buses. Housed in a 16-pin TSSOP package, this device operates within a 2.3V to 5.5V supply range, making it compatible with a wide array of low-voltage and mixed-voltage systems. Although marked as obsolete, it remains a reliable solution for legacy designs requiring bidirectional voltage-level translation and bus multiplexing. Its RoHS3 compliance and REACH unaffected status ensure adherence to environmental regulations, while its Moisture Sensitivity Level (MSL) 1 rating guarantees robustness in handling and storage.

PCA9546APW Features

• I²C/SMBus Compatibility: Supports standard I²C and SMBus protocols, enabling seamless integration into existing systems.
• Four Bidirectional Channels: Allows multiplexing among up to four I²C buses, reducing system complexity and improving signal integrity.
• Wide Voltage Range (2.3V–5.5V): Facilitates interfacing between devices with differing logic levels, eliminating the need for additional level shifters.
• Low Standby Current: Enhances power efficiency in battery-operated or energy-sensitive applications.
• Hardware Address Selection: Simplifies system design by avoiding address conflicts in multi-device environments.
• Robust Packaging (TSSOP-16): Suitable for surface-mount applications with space constraints.

PCA9546APW Applications

The PCA9546APW excels in scenarios requiring I²C bus expansion or isolation, such as:

• Embedded Systems: Managing multiple sensors or peripherals on a single microcontroller.
• Telecommunications Equipment: Isolating and routing I²C signals in backplane or modular designs.
• Industrial Automation: Enabling communication between subsystems operating at different voltage levels.
• Consumer Electronics: Multiplexing displays, memory, or control interfaces in smart devices.
• Legacy System Upgrades: Providing backward compatibility for older I²C-based hardware.

Conclusion of PCA9546APW

While the PCA9546APW is obsolete, its versatile voltage translation, multi-channel multiplexing, and compact form factor make it a pragmatic choice for specific legacy or niche applications. Engineers valuing simplicity, compatibility, and power efficiency in I²C bus management may still find it advantageous, particularly where newer alternatives are not feasible. For new designs, however, exploring Texas Instruments' updated portfolio is recommended.

PCA9546APW Documents

Download datasheets and manufacturer documentation for PCA9546APW

EOL :

Product Discontinuance Notification (PDF)      

Images :

Mechanical Outline Drawing      

PCN :

Process Change Notification (PDF)       Qualification of Mold Compound for Select Devices using TSSOP package (PDF)       Process Change notification (PDF)      

Models :

PCA9546APW Symbol & Footprint by SnapMagic      

Product Catalogs :

I2C Guide (Rev. E)       Logic Guide (Rev. AB)      

SPICE Models :

HSPICE Model for PCA9546A