Overview
The TL16C550CFNRG4, produced by Texas Instruments, is a functional upgrade of the TL16C450 asynchronous communications element (ACE). This component is designed to enhance serial communication capabilities in various applications. It operates in both TL16C450 mode and an alternate FIFO mode, which significantly reduces software overhead by buffering received and transmitted characters. The TL16C550CFNRG4 supports serial-to-parallel and parallel-to-serial conversions, making it versatile for use with peripheral devices and modems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Minimum | Typical | Maximum | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 4.75 | 5 | 5.25 | V |
| Input Voltage (VI) | 0 | - | VCC | V |
| Operating Temperature (TA) | 0 | - | 70 | °C |
| Storage Temperature (Tstg) | -65 | - | 150 | °C |
| Clock Rate | - | - | 16 MHz | - |
| Baud Rate | - | - | 1 Mbit/s | - |
| FIFO Depth | - | - | 16 bytes | - |
Key Features
- Programmable Auto-RTS and Auto-CTS for efficient serial data flow control.
- Support for 5-V and 3.3-V operation, enhancing compatibility with various systems.
- Independent receiver clock input and fully programmable serial interface characteristics (character length, parity, stop bits).
- False-start bit detection and complete status reporting capabilities.
- Internal diagnostic capabilities including loopback controls and error simulation (break, parity, overrun, framing errors).
- Modem control functions (CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, RI, and DCD) for comprehensive communication management.
- Fully prioritized interrupt system to manage communications efficiently.
- 3-State output TTL drive capabilities for bidirectional data and control buses.
Applications
The TL16C550CFNRG4 is suitable for a wide range of applications requiring advanced serial communication capabilities, including:
- Embedded systems and microcontrollers needing robust serial communication interfaces.
- Industrial automation and control systems requiring reliable data transmission.
- Telecommunication equipment and modems where modem control functions are essential.
- Medical devices and other safety-critical applications where precise and reliable communication is crucial.
Q & A
- What is the primary function of the TL16C550CFNRG4?
The primary function of the TL16C550CFNRG4 is to perform serial-to-parallel and parallel-to-serial conversions, managing serial communication between a CPU and peripheral devices or modems.
- What are the key differences between the TL16C550CFNRG4 and the TL16C450?
The TL16C550CFNRG4 includes additional features such as programmable Auto-RTS and Auto-CTS, FIFO mode, and enhanced modem control functions, making it a functional upgrade over the TL16C450.
- What is the maximum baud rate supported by the TL16C550CFNRG4?
The TL16C550CFNRG4 supports up to 1 Mbit/s baud rate with a 16 MHz input clock.
- Can the TL16C550CFNRG4 operate at different voltage levels?
- What is the purpose of the Auto-RTS and Auto-CTS features?
The Auto-RTS and Auto-CTS features are used to control serial data flow automatically, preventing overrun errors by ensuring the receiver FIFO has space for incoming data.
- Does the TL16C550CFNRG4 support interrupt management?
- What types of diagnostic capabilities does the TL16C550CFNRG4 offer?
The TL16C550CFNRG4 offers internal diagnostic capabilities including loopback controls and error simulation for break, parity, overrun, and framing errors.
- Can the TL16C550CFNRG4 be used in safety-critical applications?
- What is the significance of the FIFO mode in the TL16C550CFNRG4?
The FIFO mode relieves the CPU of excessive software overhead by buffering received and transmitted characters, enhancing system efficiency.
- How does the TL16C550CFNRG4 handle modem control functions?
The TL16C550CFNRG4 includes comprehensive modem control functions such as CTS, RTS, DSR, DTR, RI, and DCD, which are essential for managing modem communications.
