Part A
ADS1241E
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 1322 PCS
- Package
- SSOP-28
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Analog to Digital Converters (ADC)
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The ADS1246IPW and ADS1241E are both 24-bit delta-sigma ADCs, but they differ in resolution architecture, input channel count, package footprint, and interface configuration, so the ADS1241E cannot serve as a direct drop-in substitute for the ADS1246IPW without redesign and validation.
Different channel count
Different package footprint
Different interface configuration
Different reference architecture
Parts at a glance
Part B
ADS1246IPW
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 6549 PCS
- Package
- TSSOP-16
- Series
- Data Acquisition - Analog to Digital Converters (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 | ADS1246IPW | ADS1241E | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Resolution (bits) | 24 | 24 | Both are 24-bit delta-sigma ADCs, so resolution alone does not differentiate them for substitutability. |
| Number of input channels | 1 differential (2 single-ended) | 4 differential (8 single-ended) | Channel count determines how many sensors or signals can be measured; the ADS1241E supports more inputs, so it is not a drop-in replacement where multiple channels are required. |
| Interface | SPI | SPI | Both use a serial SPI interface, simplifying firmware reuse across the two parts. |
| Supply voltage (analog) | 2.7 V to 5.25 V | 2.7 V to 5.25 V | Matching analog supply ranges allow operation from the same system rail without level shifting. |
| PGA gain range | 1 to 128 | 1 to 128 | Identical programmable gain ranges mean similar small-signal amplification capability for low-level sensor inputs. |
| Data rate (SPS) | 5 to 2000 | 20 to 1000 | Different maximum output data rates affect achievable measurement speed and noise trade-offs, so timing-critical designs may not be directly interchangeable. |
| Package | TSSOP-16 | SSOP-28 | Different package footprints and pin counts require PCB layout changes, preventing direct board-level substitution. |
| Operating temperature range | -40 °C to +105 °C | -40 °C to +85 °C | The wider temperature range of the ADS1246IPW suits harsher environments, so the ADS1241E may not meet the same thermal requirements. |
| Internal oscillator | Yes | No | An integrated oscillator simplifies clocking and reduces external components; its absence in the ADS1241E requires an external clock source. |
Need help validating a replacement?
Send your BOM and application constraints for technical and sourcing review.
Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | ADS1241E | ADS1246IPW |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Active | Active |
| Number of Bits | 24 | 24 |
| Sampling Rate(Per Second) | 15 | 2k |
| Number of Inputs | 8 | 1 |
| Input Type | Differential, Single Ended | Differential, Single Ended |
| Data Interface | SPI | SPI |
| Configuration | MUX-PGA-ADC | MUX-PGA-ADC |
| Number of A/D Converters | 1 | 1 |
| Architecture | Sigma-Delta | Sigma-Delta |
| Reference Type | External | External, Internal |
| Voltage - Supply, Analog | 2.7V ~ 3.3V, 5V | 2.7V ~ 5.25V |
| Voltage - Supply, Digital | 2.7V ~ 5.25V | 2.7V ~ 5.25V |
| Features | PGA | PGA, Temperature Sensor |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | -40°C ~ 105°C |
Frequently asked questions
What are the primary differences between the ADS1246IPW and the ADS1241E?
The ADS1246IPW is a 24-bit, single-channel delta-sigma ADC in a 16-pin TSSOP package, while the ADS1241E is a 24-bit, 8-channel (4 differential) delta-sigma ADC in a 28-pin TSSOP package. The ADS1246IPW offers a higher programmable data rate range and integrated features such as a low-noise PGA and internal oscillator, whereas the ADS1241E provides more input channels for multi-sensor applications.
Are the ADS1246IPW and ADS1241E pin-compatible?
No. The ADS1246IPW uses a 16-pin TSSOP package, and the ADS1241E uses a 28-pin TSSOP package. They have different pin counts, pin functions, and PCB land patterns, so they are not drop-in replacements for each other.
Can the ADS1246IPW be used as a direct substitute for the ADS1241E in an existing design?
No. Because the two devices differ in package size, pinout, channel count, and register map, a direct substitution is not possible. Any replacement requires a PCB redesign and firmware changes validated against the respective manufacturer datasheets.
How do the input channel configurations compare between the ADS1246IPW and ADS1241E?
The ADS1246IPW provides a single differential input channel (two analog inputs), while the ADS1241E provides eight single-ended or four differential input channels. The ADS1241E is therefore suited to multi-channel sensor systems, whereas the ADS1246IPW targets single-channel high-resolution measurement.
Do both devices support a programmable gain amplifier (PGA)?
Yes. Both the ADS1246IPW and the ADS1241E integrate a low-noise programmable gain amplifier, allowing direct connection of low-level sensor signals. Gain settings and register configurations differ between the two devices and must be verified in the respective datasheets.
What are the package and operating temperature specifications for each device?
The ADS1246IPW is supplied in a 16-pin TSSOP package, and the ADS1241E is supplied in a 28-pin TSSOP package. Both are specified for the industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C per their manufacturer datasheets.
Which device is better suited for multi-channel data acquisition systems?
The ADS1241E is better suited for multi-channel data acquisition because it offers eight single-ended or four differential inputs, whereas the ADS1246IPW provides only a single differential input channel. The choice depends on the number of sensors and the required resolution per channel.