TXS/TXB Level Translators Family (6 parts in our catalog)

The TXS and TXB families from Texas Instruments are bidirectional voltage-level translators designed to bridge logic signals between different voltage domains, typically ranging from 1.2V to 5.5V. While the TXS series uses an open-drain architecture with internal pull-up resistors optimized for I2C and 1-wire protocols, the TXB series utilizes a push-pull architecture with edge-rate accelerators for high-speed CMOS signals. These devices eliminate the need for a direction-control pin, simplifying PCB layout and reducing GPIO overhead in mixed-voltage embedded systems.

Key Features

• Auto-directional sensing eliminates the need for DIR control pins
• Support for partial-power-down mode (Ioff) to prevent backflow current
• Wide supply range from 1.2V to 3.6V on Port A and 1.65V to 5.5V on Port B
• TXS optimized for open-drain and TXB optimized for push-pull drive

Sub-families

Typical Use Cases

Embedded engineers primarily deploy TXS level translators in communication buses where multiple devices operate at disparate logic levels, such as connecting a 1.8V application processor to a 3.3V or 5V I2C sensor array or an SD card interface. The TXB variants are more suited for high-speed push-pull interfaces like SPI, JTAG, or general-purpose CMOS logic where rapid transitions are required without the interference of passive pull-up resistors. Typical applications include handheld consumer electronics, industrial automation modules, and IoT gateways where a central SoC must interface with legacy peripherals or low-voltage memory chips. Engineers must account for the weak output drive of these devices, ensuring that heavy capacitive loads or long traces do not compromise signal integrity, particularly in the TXB series which relies on internal one-shot circuitry for edge acceleration.

Popular Variants

Top variants from across the family, with specs that differentiate them.

Alternatives to Consider