Part A
ADS7846E
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5291 PCS
- Package
- SSOP-16
- Series
- Acquisition de données - Contrôleur à écran tactile
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The ADS7846E is a functional replacement candidate for the ADS7841E, sharing the same 12-bit SAR architecture, 4-wire SPI interface, and 16-pin SSOP footprint, but it adds an on-chip temperature sensor and internal reference that require validation against the target design's reference and channel requirements.
Resolution and Architecture
High match
Package and Pinout
High match
Reference Configuration
Validation required
Input Channel Function
Validation required
Parts at a glance
Part B
ADS7841E
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5990 PCS
- Package
- SSOP-16
- Series
- Acquisition de données - Convertisseur analogique - numérique (ADC)
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | ADS7841E | ADS7846E | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution | 12 bit | 12 bit | Both converters provide 12-bit resolution, so measurement granularity is equivalent. |
| Number of Input Channels | 4 single-ended / 2 differential | 4 single-ended / 2 differential plus touchscreen drivers | Channel count and configuration determine how many signals can be measured and whether differential measurement is possible. |
| Sampling Rate | 200 kSPS | 125 kSPS | Maximum throughput affects how fast the system can acquire successive samples. |
| Interface | SPI-compatible serial | SPI-compatible serial | Both use a serial interface, so the host microcontroller connection is functionally similar. |
| Supply Voltage | 2.7 V to 5.25 V | 2.2 V to 5.25 V | The wider supply range of the ADS7846E allows operation at lower system voltages. |
| Touchscreen Controller Function | No | Yes (includes touchscreen drivers and pen-interrupt) | The ADS7846E integrates touchscreen control, which the ADS7841E lacks, affecting direct substitutability in touch applications. |
| Package | 16-pin SSOP | 16-pin SSOP | Identical package and pin count simplify board-level replacement considerations. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40 °C to +85 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | Matching temperature ranges indicate comparable environmental suitability. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | ADS7846E | ADS7841E |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Active | Active |
| Touchscreen | 4 Wire Resistive | - |
| Resolution(Bits) | 12 b | - |
| Interface | SPI | - |
| Voltage Reference | External, Internal | - |
| Voltage - Supply | 2.2V ~ 5.25V | - |
| Supply Current | 500 µA | - |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | - |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | - |
Frequently asked questions
What are the key differences between the ADS7841E and ADS7846E?
The ADS7841E is a 4-channel, 12-bit SAR ADC with a serial interface, while the ADS7846E is a 4-wire touch screen controller that integrates a 12-bit SAR ADC with an on-chip temperature sensor, touch-pressure measurement, and a battery monitor. The ADS7846E also includes an SPI-compatible serial interface and an internal reference, whereas the ADS7841E requires an external reference voltage.
Are the ADS7841E and ADS7846E pin-compatible?
No. Although both are offered in a 16-pin SSOP package, their pin functions differ. The ADS7846E includes additional functions such as a temperature sensor input, battery monitor input, and touch-panel drivers (X+, X-, Y+, Y-) that are not present on the ADS7841E. Therefore, they are not direct drop-in replacements and require separate PCB layouts.
Can the ADS7841E be used as a touch screen controller like the ADS7846E?
No. The ADS7841E is a general-purpose 4-channel ADC and does not include the touch-screen drive circuitry, pen-interrupt output, or pressure measurement functions integrated in the ADS7846E. For touch-screen applications, the ADS7846E is the appropriate device.
Do both devices support the same serial interface?
Both devices use an SPI-compatible serial interface, but the command formats differ. The ADS7841E uses a control byte to select the input channel and power-down mode, while the ADS7846E uses a more complex control byte that also configures the touch-screen drivers, reference mode, and auxiliary inputs. Firmware written for one device is not directly portable to the other.
What is the resolution and sampling rate of the ADS7841E and ADS7846E?
Both devices provide 12-bit resolution. The ADS7841E supports a throughput rate of up to 200 kSPS, and the ADS7846E also supports up to 125 kSPS for touch-screen conversions. Designers should consult the respective datasheets for exact timing and throughput specifications under their operating conditions.
Do the ADS7841E and ADS7846E have the same supply voltage requirements?
Both devices operate from a single supply in the range of 2.7 V to 5.25 V. However, the ADS7846E includes an internal reference and additional analog functions that may affect power consumption. The ADS7841E requires an external reference voltage applied to the VREF pin, which must be within the specified range relative to the supply.
Which device is better suited for battery-powered portable applications?
The ADS7846E is specifically designed for portable touch-screen systems, integrating touch drivers, a pen-interrupt output, and automatic power-down between conversions to reduce power consumption. The ADS7841E is a general-purpose ADC and may require additional external circuitry for touch-screen applications, which can increase overall system power and board space.