AD SSM2018TPZ

Trimless
Voltage Controlled Amplifier
SSM2018
Data Sheet
FEATURES
FUNCTIONAL BLOCK DIAGRAM
117 dB dynamic range
0.006% typical THD+N (@ 1 kHz, unity gain)
140 dB gain range
No external trimming required
Differential inputs
Complementary gain outputs
Buffered control port
I–V converter on-chip
Low external parts count
Low cost
SSM2018
VC
G
+IN
GAIN
CORE
VG
–IG
–IN
V1–G
–I1–G
00345-001
1–G
Figure 1.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The SSM2018 represents the continuing evolution of the Frey
Operational Voltage Controlled Element (OVCE) topology that
permits flexibility in the design of high performance volume
control systems. The SSM2018 is laser trimmed for gain core
symmetry and offset. As a result, the SSM2018 is the first
professional audio quality VCA to offer trimless operation.
Due to careful gain core layout, the SSM2018 combines the low
noise of Class AB topologies with the low distortion of Class A
circuits to offer an unprecedented level of sonic transparency.
Rev. C
Additional features include differential inputs, a 140 dB (−100 dB
to +40 dB) gain range, and a high impedance control port. The
SSM2018 provides an internal current-to-voltage converter.
Thus, no external active components are required.
This device is offered in 16-lead, plastic DIP package and
guaranteed for operation over the extended industrial
temperature range of −40°C to +85°C.
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SSM2018
Data Sheet
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Features .............................................................................................. 1
Control Section ........................................................................... 11
Functional Block Diagram .............................................................. 1
Applications Information .............................................................. 12
General Description ......................................................................... 1
Basic VCA Configuration ......................................................... 12
Revision History ............................................................................... 2
Proper Operating Mode for the SSM2018 .............................. 12
Specifications..................................................................................... 3
Output Drive ............................................................................... 13
Electrical Specifications ............................................................... 3
Upgrading SSM2018 Sockets .................................................... 13
Absolute Maximum Ratings ............................................................ 4
Temperature Compensation of the Gain Constant ............... 13
Transistor Count ........................................................................... 4
Digital Control of the Gain ....................................................... 14
Thermal Resistance ...................................................................... 4
Supply Considerations and Single-Supply Operation ........... 14
ESD Caution .................................................................................. 4
Operational Voltage Controlled Element................................ 14
Pin Configuration and Function Descriptions ............................. 5
Voltage Controlled Panner ........................................................ 15
Typical Performance Characteristics ............................................. 6
Outline Dimensions ....................................................................... 16
Theory of Operation ...................................................................... 10
Ordering Guide .......................................................................... 16
Compensating the SSM2018 ..................................................... 10
REVISION HISTORY
2/13—Rev. B to Rev. C
7/02—Rev. A to Rev. B
Updated Format .................................................................. Universal
Reorganized Layout ............................................................ Universal
Changed SSM2018T to SSM2018 ................................ Throughout
Changes to Table 2 and Transistor Count Section ........................ 4
Added Table 4..................................................................................... 5
Changed Theory of Operation of the SSM2018T Section to
Theory of Operation Section; Changes to Figure 28 ..................10
Changes to Control Section ...........................................................11
Changed Applications Section to Applications Information
Section, Changes to Basic VCA Configuration Section .............12
Changes to Output Drive Section, Upgrading SSM2018 Sockets
Section, Temperature Compensation of the Gain Constant
Section, Figure 30, and Figure 31 ..................................................13
Changes to Digital Control of the Gain Section ..........................14
Updated Outline Dimensions ........................................................16
Changes to Ordering Guide ...........................................................16
Deleted references to SSM2118T........................................... Global
Edits to Features ................................................................................1
Edits to General Description ...........................................................1
Deleted SSM2118T Functional Block Diagram ............................1
Deleted 16-Lewad Plastic DIP and SOL from
Pin Configurations ............................................................................3
Edits to Ordering Guide ...................................................................3
Deleted SSM2118T Typical Application Circuit ...........................3
Deleted TPCs ................................................................................ 7–8
Edits to Applications ...................................................................... 10
Deleted section Basic VCA Configuration For
The SSM21218T ............................................................................. 11
Rev. C | Page 2 of 16
Data Sheet
SSM2018
SPECIFICATIONS
ELECTRICAL SPECIFICATIONS
VS = ±15 V, AV = 0 dB, RL = 100 kΩ, f = 1 kHz, 0 dBu = 0.775 V rms, simple VCA application circuit with 18 kΩ resistors, −VIN floating,
and Class AB gain core bias (RB = 150 kΩ), −40°C < TA < +85°C, unless otherwise noted. Typical specifications apply at TA = 25°C.
Table 1.
Parameter
AUDIO PERFORMANCE
Noise
Headroom
Total Harmonic Distortion plus Noise
INPUT AMPLIFIER
Bias Current
Offset Voltage
Offset Current
Input Impedance
Common-Mode Range
Gain Bandwidth
Slew Rate
OUTPUT AMPLIFIER
Offset Voltage
Output Voltage Swing
Minimum Load Resistance
CONTROL PORT
Bias Current
Input Impedance
Gain Constant
Gain Constant Temperature Coefficient
Control Feedthrough
Maximum Gain
Maximum Attenuation
POWER SUPPLIES
Supply Voltage Range
Supply Current
Power Supply Rejection Ratio
Conditions
Min
VIN = GND, 20 kHz Bandwidth
Clip Point = 1% THD + N
2nd and 3rd Harmonics Only
(25°C to 85°C)
AV = 0 dB, VIN = +10 dBu
AV = +20 dB, VIN = −10 dBu
AV = −20 dB, VIN = +10 dBu
VCM = 0 V
VCM = 0 V
VCM = 0 V
VCA Configuration
VCP Configuration
VIN = 0 V, VC = 4 V
IOUT = 1.5 mA
Positive
Negative
For Full Output Swing
10
−10
Typ
Max
–95
22
–93
0.006
0.013
0.013
0.020
0.03
0.03
0.25
1
10
4
±13
0.7
14
5
1
15
100
µA
mV
nA
MΩ
V
MHz
MHz
V/µs
1.0
15
mV
0 dB to –40 dB Gain Range
VC = −1.3 V
VC = 4 V
±5
11
80
Rev. C | Page 3 of 16
Unit
dBu
dBu
0.01
0.02
0.02
13
−14
9
0.36
1
−30
−3500
±1
40
100
Device Powered in Socket > 60 sec
Max (E Grade)
%
%
%
V
V
kΩ
1
±4
±18
15
±3
µA
MΩ
mV/dB
ppm/°C
mV
mV
dB
V
mA
dB
SSM2018
Data Sheet
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
TRANSISTOR COUNT
Table 2.
Number of Transistors
Rating
SSM2018 .........................................................................................125
±18 V
±VS
−40°C to +85°C
−65°C to +150°C
150°C
300°C
THERMAL RESISTANCE
θJA is specified for worst-case conditions, that is, θJA is specified
for device in socket for P-DIP.
Table 3. Thermal Resistance
Package Type
16-Lead ,Plastic DIP
500 V
100 V
θJA
76
θJC
33
Unit
°C/W
50pF
18kΩ
Stresses above those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage to the device. This is a stress
rating only; functional operation of the device at these or any
other conditions above those indicated in the operational
section of this specification is not implied. Exposure to absolute
maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect
device reliability.
V+
1
16
2
15
3
14
4
1µF
VIN+
VIN–
18kΩ
1µF 18kΩ
VOUT
SSM2018T
13
5
12
6
11
7
10
8
9
V–
150kΩ
V+
1µF
47pF
Figure 2. Typical Application Circuit
ESD CAUTION
Rev. C | Page 4 of 16
3kΩ
1kΩ
VCONTROL
00345-003
Parameter
Supply Voltage
Dual Supply
Input Voltage
Operating Temperature Range
Storage Temperature
Junction Temperature (TJ)
Lead Temperature (Soldering, 60 sec)
ESD Ratings
883 (Human Body) Model
EIAJ Model
Data Sheet
SSM2018
+I1–G 1
16
V1–G
V+ 2
15
BAL
–IG 3
14
VG
13
GND
12
MODE
+IN 6
11
VC
–IN 7
10
V–
COMP 2 8
9
COMP 3
–I1–G 4
COMP 1 5
SSM2018
TOP VIEW
(Not to Scale)
00345-002
PIN CONFIGURATION AND FUNCTION DESCRIPTIONS
Figure 3.
Table 4. Pin Function Descriptions
Pin No.
1
2
3
4
5
Name
+I1−G
V+
−IG
−I1−G
COMP1
6
7
8
+IN
−IN
COMP2
9
COMP3
10
11
12
V−
VC
MODE
13
14
15
16
GND
VG
BAL
V1−G
Description
Positive Current Feedback Input for V1-G.
Positive Power Supply. Connect this pin directly to the positive power rail.
Negative Current Feedback Input for VG.
Negative Current Feedback Input for V1-G.
Compensation Pin. Apply a capacitor to the COMPx pins according to the Compensating
the SSM2018 section.
Non-Inverting Current Input.
Inverting Current Input.
Compensation Pin. Apply a capacitor to the COMPx pins according to the Compensating
the SSM2018 section.
Compensation Pin. Apply a capacitor to the COMPx pins according to the Compensating
the SSM2018section.
Negative Power Supply. Connect this pin directly to negative power rail.
Control Voltage Input Port. Apply voltage to control VCA according to the Control Section.
Operating Mode Pin. Selects Class A or Class AB operation as described in the Proper
Operating Mode for the SSM2018 section.
Ground.
Output Voltage at Gain of G.
Symmetry Trim Input for Older Version. Do not connect for SSM2108T operation.
Output Voltage at Gain of 1-G.
Rev. C | Page 5 of 16
SSM2018
Data Sheet
TYPICAL PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
1
0.1
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
RF = 18kΩ
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
RF = 18kΩ
0.1
THD + N (%)
0.01
AV = –20dB
0.01
AV = 0dB
100
1k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
10k
20k
0.001
10m
00345-004
0.001
20
Figure 4. THD + N Frequency (80 kHz Low-Pass Filter, for
AV = 0 dB, VIN = 3 V rms; for AV = +20 dB, VIN = 0.3 V rms; for AV = −20 dB,
VIN = 3 V rms)
1
2
Figure 7. THD + N vs. Amplitude (Gain = +20 dB, fIN =1 kHz,
80 kHz Low-Pass Filter)
1
100
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
RF = 18kΩ
TA = +25°C
AV = 0dB
300 UNITS
VIN = 10dBu
VS = ±15V
90
80
70
THD + N (%)
0.1
60
UNITS
0.1
AMPLITUDE (VRMS)
00345-007
THD + N (%)
AV = +20dB
50
40
0.01
30
20
0
0.005
0.010
0.015
DISTORTION (%)
0.020
0.025
0.001
–60
00345-005
0
Figure 5. Distortion Distribution
–40
–20
0
GAIN (dB)
20
40
00345-008
10
Figure 8. THD + N vs. Gain (fIN = 1 kHz; for –60 dB ≤ AV ≤ –20 dB, VIN = 10 V
rms; for 0 dB ≤ AV ≤ +20 dB, VIN = 1 V rms)
1
0.1
TA = +25°C
RF = 18kΩ
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
RF = 18kΩ
THD + N (%)
THD + N (%)
0.1
0.01
1
AMPLITUDE (VRMS)
10
20
0.001
00345-006
0.001
0.1
Figure 6. THD + N vs. Amplitude (Gain = 0 dB, fIN = 1 kHz, 80 kHz Low-Pass
Filter)
5
6
9
12
SUPPLY VOLTAGE (±V)
15
18
00345-009
0.01
Figure 9. THD + N vs. Supply Voltage (AV = 0 dB, VIN = 1 V rms, fIN = 1 kHz, 80
kHz Low-Pass Filter)
Rev. C | Page 6 of 16
Data Sheet
SSM2018
500
15
NOISE DENSITY (nV/ Hz)
400
300
200
0
10
100
1k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
10k
100k
12
9
6
3
0
100
00345-010
100
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
RF = 18kΩ
100k
Figure 10. Noise Density vs. Frequency (Unity Gain, Referred to Input)
Figure 13. Maximum Output Swing vs. Load Resistance (THD = 1 % Max)
25
100
TA = +25°C
RF = Ω
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
90
20
80
OUTPUT OFFSET (mV)
OUTPUT VOLTAGE SWING (±VPEAK )
1k
10k
LOAD RESISTANCE (Ω)
00345-013
MAXIMUM OUTPUT SWING (±VPEAK )
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
15
RL =
10
RL = 10kΩ
70
60
50
40
30
5
20
10
15
SUPPLY VOLTAGE (±V)
20
0
–80
Figure 11. Maximum Output Swing vs. Supply Voltage
(THD = 1% Max)
–20
GAIN (dB)
0
20
10
40
90
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
RF = ∞Ω
RL =
5
45
0
0
12
GAIN (dB)
RL = 10kΩ
9
GAIN
–5
–45
6
PHASE
–10
–90
0
1k
10k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
100k
–15
100
Figure 12. Maximum Output Swing vs. Frequency
(THD = 1 % Max)
1k
10k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
100k
Figure 15. Gain and Phase vs. Frequency
Rev. C | Page 7 of 16
–135
1M
00345-015
3
00345-012
MAXIMUM OUTPUT SWING (±VPEAK )
–40
Figure 14. Typical Output Offset vs. Gain
18
15
–60
PHASE (Degrees)
5
00345-011
0
00345-014
10
SSM2018
Data Sheet
60
100
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
40
TA = +25°C
0V < VC < 1.2V
FREQ = 0Hz
300 UNITS
90
80
70
60
0
UNITS
GAIN (dB)
20
–20
50
40
–40
30
20
–60
10k
100k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
1M
10M
0
–3
–1
0
CONTROL FEEDTHROUGH (mV)
0
0.06
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
VC = 100mV rms
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
CONTROL FEEDTHROUGH (dB)
0.05
0.04
VIN = +10dBu
AV = –20dB
AND
VIN = –10dBu
AV = +20dB
0.03
0.02
–20
–40
–60
–80
–20
0
20
40
TEMPERATURE (°C)
60
80
100
–100
100
00345-017
0
–40
1k
10k
100k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
00345-020
VIN = 10dBu
AV = 0dB
0.01
Figure 20. Control Feedthrough vs. Frequency
Figure 17. Distortion vs. Temperature
3
–60
–70
–80
–90
–110
–60
–40
–20
0
GAIN (dB)
20
40
00345-018
–100
VS = ±15V
0V < VC < 1.2V
FREQ = 0Hz
2
1
0
–1
–2
–3
–40
–20
0
20
40
TEMPERATURE (°C)
60
80
Figure 21. Control Feedthrough vs. Temperature
Figure 18. Output Noise vs. Gain (VIN = GND, 20 kHz Bandwidth)
Rev. C | Page 8 of 16
100
00345-021
CONTROL FEEDTHROUGH (mV)
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
OUTPUT NOISE (dBu)
2
1
Figure 19. Control Feedthrough Distribution
Figure 16. Gain vs. Frequency
DISTORTION (%)
–2
00345-019
1k
00345-016
10
–80
100
Data Sheet
SSM2018
–20
0
VS = ±15V
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
CMRR (dB)
–30
–35
–40
–60
–40
–40
–20
0
20
40
TEMPERATURE (°C)
60
80
100
–100
10
100
10k
100k
Figure 25. CMRR vs. Frequency
Figure 22. Gain Constant vs. Temperature
15.0
–28
TA = +25°C
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
12.5
SLEW RATE (V/µs)
–29
–30
–31
10.0
+SLEW RATE
7.5
5.0
–SLEW RATE
–32
–60
–20
0
GAIN (dB)
–40
20
40
60
0
00345-023
–33
–80
2.5
0
5
10
SUPPLY VOLTAGE (±V)
15
00345-026
GAIN CONSTANT (mV/dB)
1k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
00345-025
–80
00345-022
GAIN CONSTANT (mV/dB)
–20
–25
Figure 26. Slew Rate vs. Supply Voltage
Figure 23. Gain Constant Linearity vs. Gain
0
0.1
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
AV = 0dB
VIN = 100V rms
0
TA = +25°C
VS = ±15V
–20
PSRR (dB)
–0.1
–0.2
–40
–60
–PSRR
–0.3
1k
10k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
100k
–100
10
Figure 24. Gain Flatness vs. Frequency
100
1k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
Figure 27. PSRR vs. Frequency
Rev. C | Page 9 of 16
10k
100k
00345-027
–0.4
100
–80
00345-024
GAIN (dB)
+PSRR
SSM2018
Data Sheet
THEORY OF OPERATION
The collector currents of Q2 and Q3 produce the output voltage.
The output of Q3 is mirrored by amplifier A1 to add to the
overall output voltage. On the other hand, the collector currents
of Q1 and Q4 are used for feedback to the differential inputs.
Because Pins 6 and 4 are shorted together, any input voltage
produces an input current which flows into Pin 4. The same is
true for the inverting input, which is connected to Pin 1. The
overall feedback ensures that the current flowing through the
input resistors is balanced by the collector currents in Q1 and Q4.
The SSM2018 has the same internal circuitry as the original
SSM2018. The detailed diagram in Figure 28 shows the main
components of the VCA. The essence of the SSM2018 is the
gain core, which comprises two differential pairs (Q1–Q4).
When the control voltage, VC, is adjusted, current through the
gain core is steered to one side or the other of the two differential
pairs. The tail current for these differential pairs is set by the
mode bias of the VCA (Class A or AB), which is labeled as IM in
the diagram. IM is then modulated by a current proportional to
the input voltage, labeled IS. For a positive input voltage, more
current is steered (by the splitter) to the left differential pair; the
opposite is true for a negative input.
COMPENSATING THE SSM2018
The SSM2018 has a network that uses an adaptive compensation
scheme that adjusts the optimum compensation level for a given
gain. The control voltage not only adjusts the gain core steering,
it also adjusts the compensation. The SSM2018 has three
compensation pins: COMP1, COMP2, and COMP3. COMP3 is
normally left open. Grounding this pin actually defeats the adaptive
compensation circuitry, giving the VCA a fixed compensation
point. The only time this is desirable is when the VCA has fixed
feedback, such as the voltage controlled panner (VCP) circuit
shown later in the data sheet. Thus, for the Basic VCA circuit or
the OVCE circuit, COMP3 should be left open.
To understand how the gain control works, a simple example is
best. Take the case of a positive control voltage on Pin 11. Note
that the bases of Q2 and Q3 are connected to ground via a 200
Ω resistor. A positive control voltage produces a positive voltage
on the bases of Q1 and Q4. Concentrating on the left-most
differential pair, this raises the base voltage of Q1 above that of
Q2. Thus, more of the tail current is steered through Q1 than
through Q2. The current from the collector of Q2 flows through
the external 18 kΩ feedback resistor around amplifier A3.
When this current is reduced, the output voltage is also reduced.
Thus, a positive control voltage results in an attenuation of the
input signal, which explains why the gain constant is negative.
V+
2
COMP 2
COMP 1 V
G
8
5
14
–IG
+I1–G
3
1
15 BAL
4
A1
COMPENSATION
NETWORK
A3
A2
A4
–I1–G
16 V1–G
–IN 7
1–G
G
Q1 Q2
G
1–G
GAIN CORE
1.8kΩ
Q3 Q4
11 VC
200Ω
+IN 6
Im + (
Is
)
2
200Ω
Im – (
SPLITTER
13 GND
Is
)
2
VREF
SSM2018
12 MODE
Im
00345-029
V– 10
9
COMP 3
Figure 28. Detailed Functional Diagram
Rev. C | Page 10 of 16
Data Sheet
SSM2018
A compensation capacitor must be added between COMP1 and
COMP2. Because the VCA operates over such a wide gain
range, the compensation should ideally be optimized for each
gain. When the VCA is in high attenuation, there is very high
loop gain, and the part needs to have high compensation. On
the other hand, at high gain, the same compensation capacitor
would overcompensate the part and roll off the high frequency
performance. Thus, the SSM2018 employs a patented adaptive
compensation circuit. The compensation capacitor is Miller
connected between the base and collector of an internal
transistor. By changing the gain of this transistor via the control
voltage, the compensation is changed.
Increasing the compensation capacitor causes the frequency
response and slew rate to decrease, which tends to cause high
frequency distortion to increase. For the basic VCA circuit, 47 pF
was chosen as the optimal value. The OVCE circuit described
later uses a 220 pF capacitor. The reason for the increase is to
compensate for the extra phase shift from the additional output
amplifier used in the OVCE configuration. The compensation
capacitor can be adjusted over a practical range from 47 pF to
220 pF if desired. Below 47 pF, the parts may oscillate; above 220
pF the frequency response is significantly degraded.
CONTROL SECTION
As noted above, the control voltage on Pin 11 steers the current
through the gain core transistors to set the gain. The unity gain
(0 dB) condition occurs at VC = 0. Attenuation occurs in the
VCA for positive voltages (0 V to 3 V, typ), and gain occurs for
negative voltage (0 V to −1.3 V, typ). From –1.3 V to +3.0 V,
140 dB of gain range is obtainable. The output gain formula is
as follows:
VOUT = VIN × e(−aVC)
(1)
The exponential term arises from the standard Ebers-Moll
equation describing the relationship of a transistor’s collector
current as a function of the base-emitter voltage:
IC = IS × e(VBE /VT)
(2)
The factor a is a function not only of VT but also the scaling due
to the resistor divider of the 200 Ω and 1.8 kΩ resistors shown
in Figure 2. The resulting expression for a is as follows: a =
1/(10 × VT), which is approximately equal to 4 at room
temperature. Substituting a = 4 in the above equation results in
a −28.8 mV/dB control law at room temperature.
The −28.8 mV/dB number is slightly different from the data
sheet specification of −30 mV/dB. The difference arises from
the temperature dependency of the control law. The term VT is
known as the thermal voltage, and it has a direct dependency
on temperature:
VT = kT/q
where
k = Boltzmann’s constant = 1.38 E − 23
q = electron charge = 1.6 E − 19
T = absolute temperature in Kelvin)
This temperature dependency leads to the −3500 ppm/°C drift
of the control law. It also means that the control law changes as
the part warms up. Thus, our specification for the control law
states that the part has been powered up for 60 seconds.
When the part is initially turned on, the temperature of the die
is still at the ambient temperature (25°C for example), but the
power dissipation causes the die to warm up. With ±15 V
supplies and a supply current of 11 mA, 330 mW is dissipated.
This number is multiplied by θJA to determine the rise in the
die’s temperature. In this case, the die increases from 25°C to
approximately 50°C. A 25°C temperature change causes a 8.25%
increase in the gain constant, resulting in a gain constant of
30 mV/dB. The graph in Figure 22 shows how the gain constant
varies over the full temperature range.
Rev. C | Page 11 of 16
SSM2018
Data Sheet
APPLICATIONS INFORMATION
The SSM2018 is a trimless voltage controlled amplifier (VCA) for
volume control in audio systems. The SSM2018 is identical to
the original SSM2018 in functionality and pinout; however, it is
the first professional quality audio VCA in the marketplace that
does not require an external trimming potentiometer to minimize
distortion. Instead, the SSM2018 is laser trimmed before it is
packaged to ensure the specified THD and control feedthrough
performance. This has a significant savings in not only the cost of
external trimming potentiometers, but also the manufacturing cost
of performing the trimming optimization during production.
BASIC VCA CONFIGURATION
The primary application circuit for the SSM2018 is the basic
VCA configuration, which is shown in Figure 29. This configuration uses differential current feedback to realize the VCA. A
complete description of the internal circuitry of the VCA, and this
configuration, is given in the Theory of Operation section. The
SSM2018 is trimmed at the factory for operation in the basic
VCA configuration with class AB biasing. Thus, for optimal
distortion and control feedthrough performance, use the same
configuration and biasing. All of the graphs for the SSM2018 in
the data sheet have been measured using the circuit of Figure 29.
50pF
18kΩ
1
16
15
3
14
4
1µF
VIN+
VIN–
5
18kΩ
1µF 18kΩ
VOUT
2
SSM2018T
13
12
6
11
7
10
8
9
V–
RB
150kΩ
1µF
V+
3kΩ
1kΩ
47pF
The control port follows a −30 mV/dB control law. The application
circuit shows a 3 kΩ and 1 kΩ resistor divider from a control
voltage. The choice of these resistors is arbitrary and could be
any values to properly scale the control voltage. In fact, these
resistors can be omitted if the control voltage has been properly
scaled. The 1 μF capacitor is in place to provide some filtering
of the control signal. Although the control feedthrough is
trimmed at the factory, the feedthrough increases with frequency
(Figure 20). Thus, high frequency noise can feed through and
add to the noise of the VCA. Filtering the control signal helps
minimize this noise source.
PROPER OPERATING MODE FOR THE SSM2018
The SSM2018 has the flexibility of operating in either Class A
or Class AB. This is accomplished by adjusting the amount of
current flowing in the gain core (IM in Figure 28). The traditional
trade-off between the two classes is that Class A tends to have
lower THD but higher noise than Class AB. However, by using
well matched gain core transistors, distortion compensation
circuitry and laser trimming, the SSM2018 has excellent THD
performance in Class AB. Thus, it offers the best of both worlds
in having the low noise of Class AB with low THD.
VCONTROL
00345-028
V+
The output of the basic VCA is taken from Pin 14, which is the
output of an internal amplifier. Note that the second voltage
output (Pin 16) is connected to the negative supply. This is
normal and actually disables that output amplifier, ensuring
that it does not oscillate and cause interference problems.
Shorting the output to the negative supply does not cause the
supply current to increase. This amplifier is only used in the
OVCE application explained in the Operational Voltage
Controlled Element section.
Figure 29. Basic VCA Application Circuit
In the simple VCA configuration, the SSM2018 inputs are at a
virtual ground. Thus, 18 kΩ resistors are required to convert the
input voltages to input currents. The schematic also shows ac
coupling capacitors. These are inserted to minimize dc offsets
generated by bias current through the resistors. Without the
capacitors, the dc offset due to the input bias current is typically
5 mV. The input stage has the flexibility to run either inverting,
noninverting, or balanced. The most common configuration is
to run it in the noninverting single-ended mode. If either input
is unused, the associated 18 kΩ resistor and coupling capacitor
should be removed to prevent any additional noise.
The common-mode rejection in balanced mode is typically
55 dB up to 1 kHz, decreasing at higher frequencies as shown in
Figure 25. To ensure good CMRR in the balanced configuration,
the input resistors must be balanced. For example, a 1% mismatch
results in a CMRR of 40 dB. To achieve 55 dB, these resistors
should have an absolute tolerance match of 0.1%.
Because the SSM2018 operates optimally in Class AB, the
distortion trim is performed for this class. To guarantee
conformance to the data sheet THD specifications, the SSM2018
must be operated in class AB. This does not mean that it can
not be operated in Class A, but the optimal THD trim point is
different for the two classes. Using Class A operation results to
0.05% without trim. An external potentiometer could be added
to change the trim back to its optimal point as shown in the
OVCE application circuit, but this adds the expense and time in
adjusting a potentiometer.
The class of operation is set by selecting the proper value for RB
shown in Figure 29. RB determines the current flowing into the
MODE input (Pin 12). For class AB operation with ±15 V supplies,
RB should be 150 kΩ. This results in a current of 95 μA. For
other supply voltages, adjust the value of RB such that current
remains at 95 μA. This current follows the formula:
I MODE 
( V CC  0.7 V)
(3)
RB
The factor of 0.7 V arises from the fact that the dc bias on Pin
12 is a diode drop above ground.
Rev. C | Page 12 of 16
Data Sheet
SSM2018
OUTPUT DRIVE
TEMPERATURE COMPENSATION OF THE GAIN
CONSTANT
The SSM2018 is buffered by an internal op amp to provide a
low impedance output. This output is capable of driving to
within 1.2 V of either rail at 1% distortion for a 100 kΩ load.
Note that this 100 kΩ load is in parallel with the feedback
resistor of 18 kΩ, so the effective load is 15.3 kΩ. For better
than 0.01% distortion, the output should remain about 3.5 V
away from either rail as shown in Figure 6. As the graph of
output swing versus load resistance shows (Figure 13), to
maintain less than 1% distortion the output current should be
limited to approximately ±1.3 mA. If higher current drive is
required, the output should be buffered with a high quality op
amp such as the ADA4897-1 or the AD797.
The gain constant has a −3500 ppm/°C temperature drift due to
the inherent nature of the control port. Over the full temperature
range of −40°C to +85°C, the drift causes the gain to change by
7 dB if the part is in a gain of ±20 dB. If the application requires
the gain constant to be the same over a wide temperature range,
external temperature compensation should be employed. The
simplest form of compensation is a temperature compensating
resistor (TCR) such as the PT146 from Precision Resistor Co.
These elements are different than a standard thermistor in that
they are linear over temperature to better match the linear drift
of the gain constant.
The internal amplifiers are compensated for unity gain stability
and are capable of driving a capacitive load up to 4700 pF.
Larger capacitive loads should be isolated from the output of
the SSM2018 by the use of a 50 Ω series resistor.
OP27
OFFSET
TRIM 10MΩ
–15V
*PT146 AVAILABLE FROM
PRECISION RESISTOR CO.
10601 75TH STREET NORTH
LARGO, FL. 34647 (727) 541-5771
SYMMETRY
TRIM
470kΩ
V–
500kΩ
18kΩ
1µF
16
2
15
3
14
VIN+
VIN–
5
18kΩ
1µF 18kΩ
VOUT
1
4
SSM2018
13
RB
12
6
11
7
10
8
9
1µF
V+
3kΩ
VCONTROL
1kΩ
NC
47pF
V–
00345-030
NOTES
1. RB: 150kΩ FOR CLASS AB.
2. NC = NO CONNECT.
PIN 11
SSM2108/
SSM2108T
Figure 31. Two TCRs Compensate for Temperature Drift of Gain Constant
50pF
V+
1kΩ*
+15V
REMOVE FOR SSM2018T
100kΩ
2kΩ
00345-031
V+
CONTROL
VOLTAGE
Figure 30. Upgrading SSM2018 Sockets
The gain constant has a −3500 ppm/°C temperature drift that is
due to the reciprocal dependence of the design on absolute
temperature. This causes the gain to vary by 7 dB over the
temperature range from −40°C to +85°C when the nominal gain
at room temperature is set to 20 dB. The gain change is quite
small if the temperature range of operation is restricted.
Nevertheless, the TC of the gain constant is easily compensated
by buffering the control voltage to the VCA with a circuit having a
3500 ppm/°C temperature coefficient. Figure 31 shows a simple
solution to the problem using an op amp with a PT146 temperature
compensating resistor from the Precision Resistor Company.
Note that this circuit is inverting, which changes the gain
constant to a positive quantity. Any other circuit that provides
the necessary positive TC works.
UPGRADING SSM2018 SOCKETS
The SSM2018 easily replaces the SSM2018 in the basic VCA
configuration. The parts are pin for pin compatible allowing
direct replacement. At the same time, the trimming potentiometers
for symmetry and offset should be removed, as shown in Figure 30.
Upgrading immediately to the SSM2018 saves the expense of
the potentiometers and the time in production of trimming for
minimum distortion and control feedthrough.
If the SSM2018 is used in the OVCE or VCP configuration, the
SSM2018 can still directly replace it; however, the potentiometers
cannot necessarily be removed, as explained in the Operational
Voltage Controlled Element and Voltage Controlled Panner
sections.
Rev. C | Page 13 of 16
SSM2018
Data Sheet
DIGITAL CONTROL OF THE GAIN
A common method of controlling the gain of a VCA is to use a
digital-to-analog converter to set the control voltage. Figure 32
shows a 12-bit DAC, the DAC8512, controlling the SSM2018.
The DAC8512 is a complete 12-bit converter in an 8-pin package.
It includes an on-board reference and an output amplifier to
produce an output voltage from 0 V to 4.095 V, which is 1 mV/bit.
Since the voltage is always positive, this circuit only provides
attenuation. The resistor divider on the output of the DAC8512
is set to scale the output voltage so that full scale produces 80 dB
of attenuation. The resistor divider can be adjusted to provide
other attenuation ranges. If a parallel interface is needed, then
the DAC8562 may be used or, for a dual DAC, the AD8582.
The SSM2018 can be operated in single-supply mode as long as
the circuit is properly biased. Figure 33 shows the proper
configuration, which includes an amplifier to create a false
ground node midway between the supplies. A high quality, wide
bandwidth audio amplifier, such as the ADA4897-1 or the
AD797, should be used to ensure a very low impedance ground
over the full audio frequency range. The minimum operating
supply for the SSM2018 is ±5 V, which gives a minimum singlesupply of +10 V and ground. The performance of the circuit
with +10 V is identical to graphs that show operation of the
SSM2018 with ±5 V supplies.
50pF
18kΩ
VOUT
50pF
V+
VOUT
NC 1
16
2
15
3
14
VIN+
13
VIN–
+15V
0.1µF
4
5
18kΩ
SSM2018T
6
11
10
8
9
NC
1µF
150kΩ
15
3
14
SSM2018T
6
1µF 18kΩ
13
RB
12
11
7
10
8
9
1µF
V+
3kΩ
V+
V+
–15V
100kΩ
0.1µF
100kΩ
OP176
10µF
1
2
CLR
6
LD
5
SCLK
3
SDI
4
R6
825Ω
Figure 33. Single-Supply Operation of SSM2018
0V ≤ VC ≤ +2.24V
OPERATIONAL VOLTAGE CONTROLLED ELEMENT
8
DAC8512
R7
1kΩ
7
NC = NO CONNECT
CCON
1µF
00345-032
CS
VCONTROL
1kΩ
47pF
0.1µF
NC
5
18kΩ
+15V
47pF
+5V
16
2
4
12
NC 7
VIN
1
00345-033
18kΩ
Figure 32. 12-Bit DAC Controls the VCA Gain
SUPPLY CONSIDERATIONS AND SINGLE-SUPPLY
OPERATION
The SSM2018 has a wide operating supply range. Many of
the graphs in this data sheet show the performance of the part
from ±5 V to ±18 V. These graphs offer typical performance
specifications and are a good indication of the parts’ capabilities.
The minimum operating supply voltage is ±4.5 V. Below this
voltage, the parts are inoperable. Thus, to account for supply
variations, the recommended minimum supply is ±5 V.
For simplicity, the circuits in the data sheet do not show supply
decoupling; however, to ensure best performance, each supply pin
should be decoupled with a 0.1 µF ceramic (or other low resistance
and inductance type) capacitor as close to the package as possible.
This minimizes the chance of supply noise feeding through the
part causing excessive noise in the audio frequency range.
The SSM2018 has considerable flexibility beyond the basic VCA
circuit utilized throughout this data sheet. The name
operational voltage controlled element (OVCE) comes from the
fact that the part behaves much like an operational amplifier
with a second voltage controlled output. The symbol for the
OVCE connected as a unity gain follower/VCA is shown in
Figure 34. The voltage output labeled V1–G is fed back to the
inverting input as it is for an op amp’s feedback. The VG output
is amplified or attenuated depending upon the control voltage.
Because the OVCE works similarly to an op amp, the feedback
could as easily have included resistors to add gain, or a filter
network to add frequency shaping. The full application circuit
for the OVCE is shown in Figure 35. Note that the amplifier
whose output (Pin 16) was originally connected to VMINUS is
now the output for feedback. As mentioned before, because the
SSM2018 is trimmed for the basic VCA configuration,
potentiometers are needed for the OVCE configuration to
ensure the best THD and control feedthrough performance.
Rev. C | Page 14 of 16
Data Sheet
SSM2018
VOLTAGE CONTROLLED PANNER
If a symmetry trim is to be performed, it should precede the
control feedthrough trim and be done as follows:
2.
An interesting circuit that is built with the OVCE building
block is a voltage controlled panner. Figure 36 shows the
feedback connection for the circuit. Note that the average of
both outputs is fed back to the input. Thus, the average must be
equal to the input voltage. When the control voltage is set for
gain at VG, this causes V1–G to attenuate (to keep the average the
same). On the other hand, when VG is attenuated, V1–G is
amplified. The result is that the control voltage causes the input
to pan from one output to the other. The following expressions
show how this circuit works mathematically:
Apply a 1 kHz sine wave of 10 dBu to the input with the
control voltage set for unity gain.
Adjust the symmetry trim potentiometer to minimize
distortion of the output signal.
Next, the control feedthrough trim is done as follows:
1.
2.
Ground the input signal port and apply a 60 Hz sine wave
to the control port. The sine wave should have its high and
low peaks correspond to the highest gain to be used in the
application and 30 dB of attenuation, respectively. For
example, a range of 20 dB gain to 30 dB attenuation
requires that the sine wave amplitude ranges between
−560 mV and +840 mV on Pin 11.
Adjust the control feedthrough potentiometer to null the
signal seen at the output.
VG = 2 K × VIN and VI−G = 2(1 − K) × VIN
where K varies between 0 and 1 as the control voltage is
changed from full attenuation to full gain, respectively.
When VC = 0, then K = 0.5 and VG = V1–G = VIN. Again,
trimming is required for best performance. Pin 9 must be
grounded. This is possible because the feedback is constant and
the adaptive network is not needed. The VCP is the only
application shown in this data sheet where Pin 9 is grounded.
VC
VG
VC
00345-034
VIN
V1–G
18kΩ
18kΩ
+
INPUTS –
VG
1
16
2
15
3
14
4
13
SSM2018
Figure 36. Basic VCP Connection
V1–G
18kΩ
V+
5
12
6
11
7
10
8
9
VG
VIN
Figure 34. OVCE Follower/VCA Connection
V+
50pF
CONTROL
FEEDTHROUGH
TRIM
18kΩ
100kΩ
10MΩ
SYMMETRY
470kΩ
TRIM
500kΩ
50pF
V–
RB
V–
V+
1µF
3kΩ
VCONTROL
1kΩ
NC
00345-035
220pF
NOTES
1. RB = 30kΩ FOR CLASS A.
150kΩ FOR CLASS B.
2. NC = NO CONNECT.
(4)
Figure 35. OVCE Application Circuit
Rev. C | Page 15 of 16
V1–G
00345-036
1.
SSM2018
Data Sheet
OUTLINE DIMENSIONS
0.800 (20.32)
0.790 (20.07)
0.780 (19.81)
16
9
1
8
0.280 (7.11)
0.250 (6.35)
0.240 (6.10)
0.325 (8.26)
0.310 (7.87)
0.300 (7.62)
0.100 (2.54)
BSC
0.060 (1.52)
MAX
0.210 (5.33)
MAX
0.195 (4.95)
0.130 (3.30)
0.115 (2.92)
0.015
(0.38)
MIN
0.150 (3.81)
0.130 (3.30)
0.115 (2.92)
0.015 (0.38)
GAUGE
PLANE
SEATING
PLANE
0.022 (0.56)
0.018 (0.46)
0.014 (0.36)
0.005 (0.13)
MIN
0.014 (0.36)
0.010 (0.25)
0.008 (0.20)
0.430 (10.92)
MAX
COMPLIANT TO JEDEC STANDARDS MS-001-AB
CONTROLLING DIMENSIONS ARE IN INCHES; MILLIMETER DIMENSIONS
(IN PARENTHESES) ARE ROUNDED-OFF INCH EQUIVALENTS FOR
REFERENCE ONLY AND ARE NOT APPROPRIATE FOR USE IN DESIGN.
CORNER LEADS MAY BE CONFIGURED AS WHOLE OR HALF LEADS.
073106-B
0.070 (1.78)
0.060 (1.52)
0.045 (1.14)
Figure 37. 16-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package [PDIP]
Narrow Body
(N-16)
Dimensions shown in inches and (millimeters)
ORDERING GUIDE
Model 1
SSM2018PZ
SSM2018TPZ
1
Temperature Range
–40°C to +85°C
–40°C to +85°C
Package Description
16-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package [PDIP]
16-Lead Plastic Dual In-Line Package [PDIP]
Z = RoHS Compliant Part.
©2002–2013 Analog Devices, Inc. All rights reserved. Trademarks and
registered trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
D00345-0-2/13(C)
Rev. C | Page 16 of 16
Package Option
N-16
N-16