UM3204Q 4-Bit Bidirectional Voltage-Level Translator

Overview

The Union UM3204Q is a 4-bit, bidirectional, auto-direction-sensing voltage level translator, designed for use in mixed-voltage digital systems. It is suitable for both push-pull and open-drain signal translation. The competing TI TXS0104ERGYR is also a 4-bit auto-sensing level shifter aimed at similar applications. However, UM3204Q stands out due to its enhanced signal robustness, broader protocol compatibility, and superior tolerance to real-world application constraints.

Voltage Range and Logic Compatibility

The UM3204Q supports dual-supply operation with voltage ranges of 1.2V to 3.6V (VCCA) and 1.65V to 5.5V (VCCB), enabling seamless level translation among common logic levels including 1.2V, 1.8V, 2.5V, 3.3V, and 5V.

Similarly, the TXS0104ERGYR offers the same nominal voltage range. However, UM3204Q offers better handling of systems where I/O voltage drops temporarily during transients, maintaining proper operation under edge cases more reliably than TXS0104ERGYR.

Drive Strength and Capacitive Load Handling

Union’s UM3204Q is optimized to tolerate larger capacitive loads and longer trace lengths, making it suitable for system designs involving bus structures or externally connected devices.

In contrast, the TXS0104ERGYR can experience degraded performance or data corruption in systems with bus capacitance exceeding ~70pF, particularly when combined with slow signal rise/fall times. Union’s UM3204Q delivers more stable and reliable signal levels in these scenarios, especially in I²C, GPIO, or SPI systems with distributed devices.

Signal Integrity and EMI Performance

The UM3204Q integrates controlled edge rate logic, helping to reduce signal overshoot and EMI emissions—key factors for maintaining signal integrity in high-speed or noisy environments.

TI’s TXS0104ERGYR, while faster, does not implement slew rate control, and as a result, may introduce more noise into sensitive systems or lead to reflections in poorly matched interconnects. The UM3204Q’s improved edge control allows for cleaner transitions and better compatibility in EMI-constrained designs.

Protocol and Application Compatibility

The UM3204Q fully supports both push-pull and open-drain signal architectures, making it highly compatible with open-drain protocols such as I²C. Additionally, its robust direction-sensing logic handles strong driver contention more gracefully, avoiding signal lock-ups during bidirectional bus communication.

The TXS0104ERGYR, while auto-sensing, is not recommended for use with passive-pullup buses like I²C without additional components, and it can fail to drive or recognize signals properly when output contention occurs. This limits its plug-and-play use across a wide range of mixed-protocol systems. The UM3204Q avoids these issues by design, resulting in better out-of-the-box functionality.

ESD Protection and Reliability

The UM3204Q provides ±8kV HBM ESD protection, delivering enhanced device robustness during handling, production, and deployment.

By contrast, TXS0104ERGYR typically offers ±2kV to ±4kV HBM, depending on packaging and lot, making Union’s solution more suitable for applications that require higher immunity to ESD and electro-mechanical interference.

Packaging and Integration

Both products are available in compact QFN-style packaging, but the UM3204Q offers better thermal performance and more robust lead-frame connection design, contributing to improved manufacturability and electrical consistency during soldering and long-term use.

In addition, Union provides more flexible pin configurations and compatibility options, making migration or replacement in space-constrained designs more straightforward.

Commercial Advantage and Supply Assurance

Union’s UM3204Q delivers exceptional value, offering comparable or superior performance at a more competitive price point. Union also provides shorter lead times and more flexible logistics, helping to mitigate risks from global component shortages.

By contrast, TXS0104ERGYR has been affected by periodic supply chain constraints, and its widespread use can result in allocation risks, especially in high-volume or price-sensitive applications.

Conclusion

The Union UM3204Q level translator is an enhanced, cost-effective, and application-robust solution compared to TI’s TXS0104ERGYR, especially in systems requiring strong signal integrity, protocol versatility, and capacitive load tolerance. Union’s product excels in:

• Open-drain and push-pull signal compatibility

• Higher capacitive drive strength

• Slew rate control for improved EMI performance

• Superior ESD protection

• Cost and availability advantages

• Greater reliability in real-world applications

For developers and engineers looking for a reliable level-shifting solution with broad compatibility and supply assurance, the UM3204Q is a strong alternative to TXS0104ERGYR.