TI VCA2615RGZR

VCA2615
SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
Dual, Low-Noise
Variable-Gain Amplifier with Preamp
FEATURES
DESCRIPTION
D VERY LOW NOISE: 0.7nV//Hz
D LOW-NOISE PREAMP (LNP)
The VCA2615 is a dual-channel, variable gain amplifier
consisting of a Low-Noise Preamplifier (LNP) and a VariableGain Amplifier (VGA). This combination along with the device
features makes it well-suited for a variety of ultrasound
systems.
−
−
−
−
D
Active Termination
Programmable Gains: 3, 12, 18, 22dB
Programmable Input Impedance (RF)
Buffered, Differential Outputs for CW
Processing
− Excellent Input Signal Handling
Capabilities
LOW-NOISE VARIABLE-GAIN AMPLIFIER
− High/Low-Mode (0/+6dB)
− 52dB Gain Control Range
− Linear Control Response: 22dB/V
− Switchable Differential Inputs
− Adjustable Output Clipping-Level
BANDWIDTH: 42MHz
HARMONIC DISTORTION: −55dB
5V SINGLE SUPPLY
The LNP offers a high level of flexibility to adapt to a wide range
of systems and probes. The LNP gain can be programmed to
one of four settings (3, 12, 18, 22dB), while maintaining
excellent noise and signal handling characteristics. The input
impedance of the LNP can be controlled by selecting one of
the built-in feedback resistors.This active termination allows
the user to closely match the LNP to a given source
impedance, resulting in optimized overall system noise
performance. The differential LNP outputs are provided either
as buffered outputs for further CW processing, or fed directly
into the variable-gain amplifier (VGA). Alternatively, an
external signal can be applied to the differential VGA inputs
through a programmable switch.
D
D
D
D LOW-POWER: 154mW/Channel
D POWER-DOWN MODES
D SMALL QFN-48 PACKAGE (7x7mm)
Following a linear-in-dB response, the gain of the VGA can be
varied over a 52dB range with a 0.2V to 2.5V control voltage
common to both channels of the VCA2615. In addition, the
overall gain can be switched between a 0dB and +6dB
postgain, allowing the user to optimize the output swing of
VCA2615 for a variety of high-speed Analog-to-Digital
Converters (ADCs). As a means to improve system overload
recovery time, the VCA2615 provides an internal clipping
function where an externally applied voltage sets the desired
clipping level.
APPLICATIONS
D MEDICAL AND INDUSTRIAL ULTRASOUND
D
SYSTEMS
− Suitable for 10-Bit and 12-Bit Systems
TEST EQUIPMENT
FB1 FB2 FB3 FB4
LNPOUT−
The VCA2615 operates on a single +5V supply and is
available in a small QFN-48 package (7x7mm).
LNPOUT+
VCAIN+
VCAIN−
H/L
(0dB or
+6dB)
Feedback
Resistors
+1
+1
LNPIN+
VCAOUT+
LNP
VGA
MUX
LNPIN−
VCAOUT−
(3, 12, 18, 22dB)
52dB
Range
1/2 VCA2615
G1 G1
VCAINSEL
VCNTL
VCLMP
Please be aware that an important notice concerning availability, standard warranty, and use in critical applications of Texas Instruments
semiconductor products and disclaimers thereto appears at the end of this data sheet.
All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.
Copyright  2005, Texas Instruments Incorporated
! ! www.ti.com
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS(1)
This integrated circuit can be damaged by ESD.
Texas Instruments recommends that all
integrated circuits be handled with appropriate
precautions. Failure to observe proper handling and
installation procedures can cause damage.
Power Supply (VDD) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +6V
Analog Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . −0.3V to (+VS + 0.3V)
Logic Inputs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . −0.3V to (+VS + 0.3V)
Case Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +100°C
Junction Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . +150°C
Storage Temperature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . −40°C to +150°C
ESD damage can range from subtle performance degradation
to complete device failure. Precision integrated circuits may
be more susceptible to damage because very small
parametric changes could cause the device not to meet its
published specifications.
(1) Stresses above those listed under Absolute Maximum Ratings
may cause permanent damage. Exposure to absolute maximum
conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
PACKAGE/ORDERING INFORMATION(1)
PRODUCT
PACKAGE-LEAD
PACKAGE
DESIGNATOR
VCA2615
QFN-48
RGZ
SPECIFIED
TEMPERATURE
RANGE
PACKAGE
MARKING
−40°C to +85°C
VCA2615
ORDERING NUMBER
TRANSPORT MEDIA,
QUANTITY
VCA2615RGZR
Tape and Reel, 2500
VCA2615RGZT
Tape and Reel, 250
(1) For the most current package and ordering information, see the Package Option Addendum at the end of this document, or see the TI website
at www.ti.com.
FUNCTIONAL BLOCK DIAGRAM
LNP OUT− A
VC A IN− A
LNP O UT+A V CA IN +A
Buffe r
VC A OUT+A
INP UT A
Buffer
LN P
VGA
VC A OUT− A
C EXTA1
Ga in
Co ntrol
Logic
C EXTA2
Fee db ack
Network
F B1
F B2
VC A INSEL
F B3
F B4
G1
G2
Ga in
Co ntrol
Logic
Fee db ack
Network
C EXTB1
C EXTB2
VC A OUT− B
LN P
VGA
Buffer
INP UT B
VC A OUT+B
B uffer
LNP OUT− B
2
VC A IN− B
LN P OUT+B V CA IN +B
H /L V CLMP
V CNTL
"
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
VCA2615
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNIT
PREAMPLIFIER (LNP and Buffer)
Input Resistance, RIN
Input Resistance
Input Capacitance
Maximum Input Voltage
See Note(1)
100
45
2.3
0.78
0.39
0.23
5
0.8
1
50
−55
−55
0.1
kΩ
kΩ
pF
VPP
VPP
VPP
VPP
VPP
nV/√Hz
pA/√Hz
MHz
dBc
dBc
µs
RL > = 500Ω
3.3
1.85
60
3
VPP
V
mA
Ω
FB (1-4) = 0111
FB (1-4) = 1011
FB (1-4) = 1101
FB (1-4) = 1110
FB (1-4) = 0000
1500
1000
500
250
130
Ω
Ω
Ω
Ω
Ω
Linear Operation(2), VCNTL = 0.7V
2
50
−60
−63
±100
VPP
MHz
dBc
dBc
V/µs
0.7
0.25 to 2.6
±50
3
60
−44
−70
±1
25
100
80
6
2.5
−55
−55
42
nV/√Hz
V
mV
Ω
mA
dBc
dBc
ns
ns
Ω
pF
VPP
V
dB
dB
MHz
With Active Feedback Termination
Feedback Termination Open
Maximum Input Voltage
Input Voltage Noise
Input Current Noise
Bandwidth
2nd-Harmonic Distortion
3rd-Harmonic Distortion
LNP Gain Change Response Time
BUFFER (LNPOUT+A/B, LNPOUT−A/B)
Output Signal Range(2)
LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 00 − Linear Operation(2)
LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 01 − Linear Operation(2)
LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10 − Linear Operation(2)
LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 11 − Linear Operation(2)
Any LNP Gain − Overload (symmetrical clipping)
RS = 0Ω; Includes Buffer Noise, LNP Gain = 11
fIN = 5MHz
fIN = 5MHz
LNP Gain 00 to 11; to 90% Signal Level
Output Common-Mode Voltage
Output Short-Circuit Current
Output Impedance
ACTIVE TERMINATION
Feedback Resistance(3), RF
VARIABLE-GAIN AMPLIFIER (VGA)
Peak Input Voltage
Upper −3dB Bandwidth
2nd-Harmonic Distortion
3rd-Harmonic Distortion
Slew-Rate
VCNTL = 2.5V, 1VPP Differential Output
VCNTL = 2.5V, 1VPP Differential Output
PREAMPLIFIER AND VARIABLE-GAIN
AMPLIFIER (LNP AND VGA)
Input Voltage Noise
Clipping Voltage Range (VCLMP)
Clipping Voltage Variation
Output Impedance
Output Short-Circuit Current
Overload Distortion (2nd-Harmonic)
Crosstalk
Delay Matching
Overload Recovery Time
Maximum Output Load
Maximum Capacitive Output Loading
Maximum Output Signal(2)
Output Common-Mode Voltage
2nd-Harmonic Distortion
3rd-Harmonic Distortion
Upper −3dB Bandwidth
VCLMP = 0.5V, VCAOUT = 1.0VPP
fIN = 5MHz, Single-Ended, Either Output
VIN = 250mVPP
fIN = 5MHz
50Ω in Series
Input Signal = 5MHz, VCNTL = 1V
Input Signal = 5MHz, VCNTL = 1V
VCNTL = 2.5V
−45
−45
(1)
RIN +
RF
(1 )
ALNP
2
)
(2) 2nd, 3rd-harmonic distortion less than or equal to −30dBc.
(3) See Table 5.
(4) Referred to best-fit dB linear curve.
(5) Parameters ensured by design; not production tested.
(6) Do not leave inputs floating; no internal pull-up/pull-down resistors.
3
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
VCA2615
PARAMETER
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNIT
ACCURACY
Gain Slope
Gain Error(4)
Gain Range
Gain Range
Gain Range (H/L)
VCNTL = 0.4V to 2.0V
VCNTL = 0.4V to 2.0V
VCNTL = 0.2V to 2.5V
VCNTL = 0.4V to 2.0V
H/L = 0 (+6dB); VGA High Gain; VCNTL = 0.2V to 2.5V
H/L = 1 (0dB); VGA Low Gain; VCNTL = 0.2V to 2.5V
Output Offset Voltage, Differential
Channel-to-Channel Gain Matching
VCNTL = 0.4V to 2.0V, CHA to CHB
22
±0.9
52
36.5
−12 to +40
−18 to +34
±50
±0.33
VCNTL = 0.2V to 2V; to 90% Signal Level
0.2 to 2.5
1
0.6
−1.5
+1.5
dB/V
dB
dB
dB
dB
dB
mV
dB
GAIN CONTROL INTERFACE (VCNTL)
Input Voltage Range
Input Resistance
Response Time
V
MΩ
µs
DIGITAL INPUTS(5), (6)
(G1, G2, PDL, PDV, H/L, FB1-FB4, VCAINSEL)
VIH, High-Level Input Voltage
VIL, Low-Level Input Voltage
Input Resistance
Input Capacitance
2.0
0.8
1
5
V
V
MΩ
pF
POWER SUPPLY
Supply Voltage
Power-Up Response Time
Power-Down Response Time
Total Power Dissipation
VGA Power-Down
LNP Power-Down
4.75
PDV, PDL = 1
PDV = 0, PDL = 1
PDL = 0, PDV = 1
5.0
25
2
308
236
95
5.25
350
V
µs
µs
mW
mW
mW
THERMAL CHARACTERISTICS
Temperature Range
Thermal Resistance, qJA
qJC
Ambient, Operating
Soldered Pad; Four-Layer PCB with Thermal Vias
(1)
RIN +
RF
(1 )
ALNP
2
)
(2) 2nd, 3rd-harmonic distortion less than or equal to −30dBc.
(3) See Table 5.
(4) Referred to best-fit dB linear curve.
(5) Parameters ensured by design; not production tested.
(6) Do not leave inputs floating; no internal pull-up/pull-down resistors.
4
−40
+85
29.1
2.2
°C
°C/W
°C/W
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
FB2
FB1
VCA OUT+B
VCA OUT−B
GNDB
41
40
39
38
37
VCA INSEL
44
V CNTL
FB4
45
FB3
VCA OUT+A
46
42
VCA OUT−A
47
43
GNDA
48
PIN CONFIGURATION
V DDB
V DDA
1
36
C EXTA1
2
35
CEXTB1
C EXTA2
3
34
CEXTB2
VCA IN− A
4
33
VCA IN−B
VCA IN+A
5
32
VCA IN+B
LNPOUT− A
6
31
LNP OUT−B
LNPOUT+A
7
30
LNP OUT+B
NC
8
29
NC
VB
9
28
NC
VDDAL
10
27
VDDBL
GNDAL
11
26
GNDBL
LNP IN− A
12
25
LNP IN−B
GNDR
H/L
20
VCM
24
19
V CLMP
PDV
18
V DDR
23
17
22
16
LNP IN+A
PDL
15
V DDA
LNP IN+B
14
G2
21
13
G1
VCA2615
(Thermal Pad tied to
Ground Potential)
PIN CONFIGURATION
PIN
1
DESIGNATOR
VDDA
2
3
4
5
6
DESCRIPTION
Channel A + Supply
PIN
25
DESCRIPTION
Channel B LNP Inverting Input
26
DESIGNATOR
LNPIN−B
GNDBL
CEXTA1
CEXTA2
External Capacitor
External Capacitor
27
VDDBL
VCAIN−A
VCAIN+A
VDD B Channel LNP
Channel A VCA Negative Input
28
NC
Do Not Connect
Channel A VCA Positive Input
29
NC
Do Not Connect
Channel A LNP Negative Output
30
Channel B LNP Positive Output
Channel A LNP Positive Output
31
LNPOUT+B
LNPOUT−B
VCAIN+B
VCAIN−B
Channel B VCA Positive Input
CEXTB2
CEXTB1
External Capacitor
VDDB
GNDB
Channel B + Supply
Channel B VCA Negative Output
7
LNPOUT−A
LNPOUT+A
8
NC
Do Not Connect
32
9
VB
0.01µF Bypass
33
10
VDDAL
VDD A Channel LNP
34
11
GNDAL
GND A Channel LNP
35
12
Channel A LNP Inverting Input
36
13
LNPIN−A
G1
LNP Gain Setting Pin (MSB)
37
14
G2
LNP Gain Setting Pin (LSB)
38
15
VDDA
LNPIN+A
Supply Pin for Gain Setting
39
VCAOUT−B
VCAOUT+B
16
17
18
19
20
21
GND B Channel LNP
Channel B LNP Negative Output
Channel B VCA Negative Input
External Capacitor
Channel B Ground
Channel B VCA Positive Output
Channel A LNP Noninverting Input
40
FB1
Feedback Control Pin
VDDR
VCLMP
Supply for Internal Reference
41
FB2
Feedback Control Pin
VCA Clamp Voltage Setting Pin
42
FB3
Feedback Control Pin
VCM
GNDR
0.1µF Bypass
43
VCA Control Voltage Input
Ground for Internal Reference
44
VCNTL
VCAINSEL
Channel B LNP Noninverting Input
45
FB4
Feedback Control Pin
Power Down LNPs
46
Channel A VCA Positive Pin
Channel A Ground
22
LNPIN+B
PDL
23
PDV
Power Down VCAs
47
VCAOUT+A
VCAOUT−A
24
H/L
VCA High/Low Gain Mode
48
GNDA
VCA Input Select, Hi = External
Channel A VCA Negative Pin
5
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
GAIN vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain)
LNP 10
LNP 01
LNP 00
65
60
55
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
−5
−10
−15
LNP 11
LNP 10
LNP 01
LNP 00
0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
LNP 11
Gain (dB)
VCNTL (V)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 1
Figure 2
GAIN ERROR vs VCNTL
(Lo VGA Gain)
Gain (dB)
0.5
1.0
0
−0.5
0.5
0
−0.5
−1.0
−1.5
−1.5
−2.0
−2.0
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
−1.0
VCNTL (V)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 3
GAIN ERROR vs VCNTL
VCNTL (V)
Figure 5
6
VCNTL (V)
Figure 6
2.0
1.9
1.8
1.7
1.6
1.5
1.4
−2.0
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
−1.5
−40_ C
1.0
1MHz
2MHz
5MHz
10MHz
−1.0
0.9
−0.5
0.8
0
+25_C
+85_C
0.7
0.5
0.6
Gain Error (dB)
Gain Error (dB)
1.0
GAIN ERROR vs VCNTL vs TEMPERATURE
0.5
1.5
2.0
1.8
1.6
1.4
1.2
1.0
0.8
0.6
0.4
0.2
0
−0.2
−0.4
−0.6
−0.8
−1.0
−1.2
−1.4
−1.6
−1.8
−2.0
0.4
2.0
Figure 4
1.3
1.0
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 10
LNP 11
1.5
1.2
1.5
Gain (dB)
2.0
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 10
LNP 11
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.0
GAIN ERROR vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain)
1.1
60
55
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
−5
−10
−15
−20
0
0.1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Gain (dB)
GAIN vs VCNTL
(Lo VGA Gain)
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
GAIN MATCHING, CHA to CHB
VCNTL = 2.0V
60
50
50
40
40
0.37
0.25
0.31
0.13
0.19
0.07
0.01
−0.05
−0.17
−0.11
−0.23
Delta Gain (dB)
Delta Gain (dB)
Figure 7
Figure 8
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(VCNTL = 0.7V, Lo VGA Gain)
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(VCNTL = 0.7V, Hi VGA Gain)
25
30
20
LNP = 10
LNP = 10
20
Gain (dB)
10
LNP = 11
25
LNP = 11
15
Gain (dB)
−0.29
−0.53
0.49
0.35
0.42
0.21
0.28
0.14
0.07
−0.00
−0.07
−0.14
0
−0.28
0
−0.21
10
−0.35
10
−0.42
20
−0.49
20
−0.35
30
−0.41
30
−0.47
Units
60
−0.56
Units
GAIN MATCHING, CHA to CHB
VCNTL = 0.4V
LNP = 01
5
15
LNP = 01
10
0
5
LNP = 00
LNP= 00
−5
0
0.1
60
55
10
100
0.1
45
Figure 9
Figure 10
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(VCNTL = 2.5V, Lo VGA Gain)
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(VCNTL = 2.5V, Hi VGA Gain)
Gain (dB)
35
LNP = 00
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
0.1
10
Frequency (MHz)
LNP = 01
40
1
Frequency (MHz)
LNP = 11
LNP = 10
50
Gain (dB)
1
1
10
100
70
65
60
55
50
45
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5
0
100
LNP = 11
LNP = 10
LNP = 01
LNP = 00
0.1
1
10
Frequency (MHz)
Frequency (MHz)
Figure 11
Figure 12
100
7
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(VGA Only)
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(LNP Only)
45
25
LNP = 11
20
Hi Gain,
VCNTL 2.5V
40
LNP = 10
35
30
15
Gain (dB)
Gain (dB)
LNP = 01
10
Lo Gain,
VCNTL 2.5V
25
20
Hi Gain,
VCNTL 0.7V
15
Lo Gain,
VCNTL 0.7V
10
5
5
LNP = 00
0
0
−5
−10
−5
0.1
1
10
0.1
100
1
10
Frequency (MHz)
Frequency (MHz)
Figure 13
Figure 14
GAIN vs FREQUENCY
(LNP (G1, G2) = 11, Various VGA Gain Capacitors)
OUTPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs VCNTL
(VGA Lo Gain, RS = 0Ω)
1000
64
63
LNP 11
62
Noise (nV/√Hz)
LNP 10
61
Gain (dB)
100
60
59
58
3.9µF
0.1µF
0.022µF
4700pF
57
56
10
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
1
LNP 01
LNP 00
10
55
0.1
100
100
Frequency (MHz)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 15
Figure 16
INPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs VCNTL
(LNP and VGA, Lo VGA Gain, RS = 0Ω)
OUTPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs VCNTL
(VGA Hi Gain, R S = 0Ω)
1000
1000
LNP 11
LNP 10
100
LNP 00
Noise (nV/√Hz)
Noise (nV/√Hz)
100
LNP 01
LNP 00
LNP 01
10
1
LNP 10
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
0.1
VCNTL (V)
Figure 17
8
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
LNP 11
10
VCNTL (V)
Figure 18
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
NOISE FIGURE vs VCNTL
(Lo VGA Gain, RS = 0Ω)
INPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain, RS = 0Ω)
100
1000
LNP 00
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 01
Noise Figure (dB)
Noise (nV/√Hz)
100
10
LNP 10
LNP 11
1
LNP 10
10
LNP 11
1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
0.1
VCNTL (V)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 19
Figure 20
NOISE FIGURE vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain, RS = 0Ω)
OUTPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs VCNTL
(VGA Only, RS = 0Ω)
100
1000
LNP 00
Noise (nV/√Hz)
Noise Figure (dB)
LNP 01
LNP 10
10
LNP 11
100
10
1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
1
VCNTL (V)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 21
Figure 22
INPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs VCNTL
(VGA Only)
INPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs FREQUENCY
(VGA Only)
1000
10
Noise (nV/√Hz)
100
Lo Gain
10
1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Noise (nV/√Hz)
High Gain
VCNTL (V)
Figure 23
1
1
10
Frequency (MHz)
Figure 24
9
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
INPUT−REFERRED NOISE vs FREQUENCY
(LNP Only)
DISTORTION vs FREQUENCY
(2nd−Harmonic, Lo VGA Gain)
−50
10
LNP 00
−52
−54
Distortion (dB)
Noise (nV/√Hz)
LNP 01
1
LNP 10
LNP 11
LNP 11
−56
LNP 10
−58
−60
−62
LNP 00
−64
LNP 01
−66
−68
−70
0.1
1
10
1
10
Frequency (MHz)
Frequency (MHz)
Figure 25
Figure 26
DISTORTION vs FREQUENCY
(3rd−Harmonic, Lo VGA Gain)
DISTORTION vs FREQUENCY
(2nd−Harmonic, Hi VGA Gain)
−50
−40
LNP 11
LNP 10
LNP 01
LNP 00
LNP 11
−54
Distortion (dB)
Distortion (dB)
−45
−52
−50
−55
LNP 10
−56
−58
−60
LNP 00
−62
LNP 01
−64
−66
−68
−70
−60
1
1
10
Frequency (MHz)
Figure 27
Figure 28
DISTORTION vs FREQUENCY
(3rd−Harmonic, Hi VGA Gain)
2nd−HARMONIC DISTORTION vs VCNTL
(Lo VGA Gain)
−40
−30
LNP 11
LNP 10
LNP 01
LNP 00
−50
−35
−40
Distortion (dB)
−55
−60
−45
LNP 01
−50
−55
−60
−65
LNP 00
−65
LNP 11
LNP 10
−70
−70
1
10
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Distortion (dB)
−45
10
10
Frequency (MHz)
Frequency (MHz)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 29
Figure 30
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
2nd−HARMONIC DISTORTION vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain)
−30
−30
−35
−35
−40
−40
Distortion (dB)
−45
−50
−55
−60
−50
−55
−65
−70
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
−70
−45
−60
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 10
LNP 11
−65
LNP 00
LNP 10
LNP 01
LNP 11
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Distortion (dB)
3rd−HARMONIC DISTORTION vs VCNTL
(Lo VGA Gain)
VCNTL (V)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 31
Figure 32
3rd−HARMONIC DISTORTION vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain)
DISTORTION vs VCA Output Voltage
−30
−30
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 10
LNP 11
−35
Distortion (dB)
−40
−45
−50
−55
−45
3rd−Harmonic
−50
−55
−60
−60
−65
−65
−70
−70
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Distortion (dB)
−40
−35
2nd−Harmonic
0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0
VCNTL (V)
VCA Output (VPP )
Figure 33
Figure 34
DISTORTION vs LNP Gain
(LNP Only)
−30
DISTORTION vs VCNTL
(VGA Only, SE In/Diff Out, Lo Gain)
−20
−35
−30
2nd−Harmonic
2nd−Harmonic
−45
Distortion (dB)
−50
−55
−60
3rd−Harmonic
−65
−70
−40
−50
−60
3rd−Harmonic
−70
−75
−80
−80
00
01
10
LNP Gain (G1, G2)
Figure 35
11
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Distortion (dB)
−40
VCNTL (V)
Figure 36
11
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
DISTORTION vs VCNTL
(VGA Only, SE In/Diff Out, Hi Gain)
DISTORTION vs OUTPUT LOAD RESISTANCE
−30
−30
−35
−35
2nd−Harmonic
−40
Distortion (dB)
−45
−50
−55
−60
−65
−45
−50
2nd−Harmonic
−55
−60
−65
3rd−Harmonic
−70
3rd−Harmonic
−75
−80
2.5
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
−70
50
150 250 350 450 550 650 750 850 950 1050
RLOAD(Ω)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 37
Figure 38
CROSSTALK vs VCNTL
(Lo VGA Gain)
CROSSTALK vs VCNTL
(Hi VGA Gain)
−60
−60
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 10
LNP 11
−62
−64
Crosstalk (dB)
−66
−68
−70
−72
−74
−66
−68
−70
−72
−74
−78
−80
−80
0.7
0.8
−76
−78
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
−76
0.7
0.8
VCNTL (V)
VCNTL (V)
Figure 39
−50
Figure 40
CROSSTALK vs VCNTL
(VOUT = 2VPP, Hi−Gain)
TOTAL POWER vs TEMPERATURE
314
−54
313
312
10MHz
−62
−66
5MHz
−70
−74
2MHz
−78
310
309
308
307
306
−82
305
−86
1MHz
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
−90
VCNTL (V)
Figure 41
12
311
Power (mW)
Crosstalk (dB)
−58
304
303
−40
−35
−30
−25
−20
−15
−10
−5
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
Crosstalk (dB)
−64
LNP 00
LNP 01
LNP 10
LNP 11
−62
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
Distortion (dB)
−40
Temperature (_ C)
Figure 42
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
VGA POWER vs TEMPERATURE
LNP POWER vs TEMPERATURE
96.0
Power Dissipation (mW)
238
237
236
235
233
−40
−35
−30
−25
−20
−15
−10
−5
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
234
95.5
95.0
94.5
94.0
−40
−35
−30
−25
−20
−15
−10
−5
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
VGA Power Dissipation (mW)
239
Temperature (_ C)
Temperature (_ C)
Figure 43
Figure 44
GAIN vs VCNTL vs TEMPERATURE
DISTORTION vs TEMPERATURE
−60
50
45
−59
2nd−Harmonic
40
−57
−56
−55
30
25
−40_ C
20
+85_ C
15
−54
10
3rd−Harmonic
−53
5
0
−40
−35
−30
−25
−20
−15
−10
−5
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
65
70
75
80
85
0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 1.9 2.0
Temperature (_ C)
VCNTL (V)
−30
−31
−32
−33
−34
−35
−36
−37
−38
−39
−40
−41
−42
−43
−44
−45
−46
0.25
Figure 46
VOUT vs VCLAMP
(100mVPP, S/E Input)
OVERLOAD DISTORTION
2nd−HARMONIC
VOUT (PP)
2nd−Harmonic (dB)
Figure 45
0.50
0.75
VIN (V)
Figure 47
1.00
5.2
4.8
4.4
4.0
3.6
3.2
2.8
2.4
2.0
1.6
1.2
0.8
0.4
0
H/L = 0
H/L = 1
0.2
0.3
0.4
0.5
0.6
0.7
0.8
0.9
1.0
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
1.5
1.6
1.7
1.8
1.9
2.0
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
−52
+25_ C
35
Gain (dB)
Distortion (dB)
−58
VCLAMP (V)
Figure 48
13
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TYPICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
All specifications at TA = +25°C, VDD = 5V, load resistance = 500Ω on each output to ground; the input to the preamp (LNP) is single-ended;
fIN = 5MHz, LNP Gain (G1, G2) = 10, H/L = 0, VCNTL = 2.5V; VCA output is 1VPP differential; CA, CB = 3.9µF, unless otherwise noted.
OUTPUT IMPEDANCE vs FREQUENCY
POWER UP/DOWN RESPONSE
PD Pin
100
H
10
1VPP
VGA Output (V)
ROUT (Ω)
L
1
0.1
1
10
100
0
Frequency (MHz)
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
45
50
55
60
Time (µs)
Figure 49
Figure 50
GROUP DELAY vs FREQUENCY
GAIN CONTROL TRANSIENT RESPONSE
2V
30
Group Delay (ns)
0V
1VPP
VGA Output (V)
VCNTL (V)
35
25
20
15
10
5
0
0
0.3
0.6
0.9
1.2
1.5
1.8
Time (µs)
Figure 51
14
2.1
2.4
2.7
3.0
1
10
Frequency (MHz)
Figure 52
100
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THEORY OF OPERATION
The VCA2615 is a dual-channel system consisting of two
primary blocks: a low noise preamplifier (LNP) and a
variable gain amplifier (VGA), which is driven from the
LNP. The LNP is very flexible; both the gain and input
impedance can be programmed digitally without using
external components. The LNP is coupled to the VGA
through a multiplexer to facilitate interfacing with an
external signal processor. The VGA is a true variable-gain
amplifier, achieving lower noise output at lower gains. The
output amplifier has two gains, allowing for further
optimization with different analog-to-digital converters.
Figure 53 shows a simplified block diagram of a single
channel of the dual-channel system. Both the LNP and the
VGA can be powered down together or separately in order
to conserve system power when necessary.
LNP
VGA
Figure 53. Simplified Block Diagram of VCA2615
LNP—OVERVIEW
The LNP has differential input and output capability. It also
has exceptionally low noise voltage and input current
noise. At the highest gain setting (of 22dB), the LNP
achieves 0.7nV/√Hz voltage noise and typically 1pA/√Hz
current noise. The LNP can process fully differential or
single-ended signals in each channel. Differential signal
processing reduces second harmonic distortion and offers
improved rejection of common-mode and power-supply
noise. The LNP gain can be electronically programmed to
have one of four values that can be selected by a two-bit
word (see Table 2). The gain of the LNP when driving the
VGA is approximately 1dB higher because of the loss in
the buffer.
The LNP also has four programmable feedback resistors
that can be selected by a four-bit word to create 16 different
values in order to facilitate the easy use of active feedback.
With this combination of both programmable gain and
feedback resistors, as many as 61 different values of input
impedance can be created to provide a wide variety of
input-matching resistors (see Table 5). By using active
feedback with this wide selection of feedback resistors, the
user is able to provide a low-noise means of terminating
input signal while incurring only a 3dB loss in
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), instead of a 6dB loss in SNR
which is usually associated with the conventional type of
signal termination. More information is given in the section
of this document that provides a detailed description of the
LNP.
The LNP output drives a buffer that in turn drives the
feedback network and supplies the LNP to a multiplexer.
The multiplexer can be configured to supply the signal
off-chip for further processing, or can be set to drive the
internal VGA directly from the LNP. An external coupling
capacitor is not required to couple the LNP to the VGA.
VGA—OVERVIEW
The VGA that is used with the VCA2615 is a true
variable-gain amplifier; as the gain is reduced, the noise
contribution from the VGA itself is also reduced. A block
diagram of the VGA is shown in Figure 53. This design is
in contrast with another popular device architecture (used
by the VCA2616), where an effective VCA characteristic
is obtained by a voltage variable-attenuator succeeded by
a fixed-gain amplifier. At the highest gain, systems with
either architecture are dominated by the noise produced
by the LNP. At low gains, however, the noise output is
dominated by the contribution from the VGA. Therefore,
the overall system with lower VGA gain will produce less
noise.
The following example will illustrate this point. Figure 53
shows a block diagram of an LNP driving a variable-gain
amplifier; Figure 54 shows a block diagram of an LNP
driving a variable attenuation attenuator followed by a
fixed gain amplifier. For purposes of this example, let us
assume the performance characteristics shown in Table 1;
these values are the typical performance data of the
VCA2615 and the VCA2616.
LNP
ATTENUATOR
Amplifier
Figure 54. Block Diagram of Older VCA Models
15
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Table 1. Gain and Noise Performance of Various
VCA Blocks
BLOCK
GAIN (Loss) dB
NOISE nV/√Hz
LNP1 (VCA2615)
20
0.82
LNP2 (VCA2616)
20
1.1
Attenuator (VCA2616)
0
1.8
Attenuator (VCA2616)
−40
1.8
VCA1 (VCA2615)
40
3.8
VCA1 (VCA2615)
0
90
VCA2 (VCA2616)
40
2.0
Total Noise +
Ǹ(LNP Noise)2 ) (VCA NoiseńLNP Gain) 2
+ Ǹ(0.82)2 ) (3.8ń10) 2 + 0.90nVń ǸHz
(1)
When the block diagram shown in Figure 54 has the
combined gain of 60dB, the noise referred to the input
(RTI) is given by the expression:
Total Noise (RTI) +
Ǹ(LNP Noise)2 ) (ATTEN NoiseńLNP Gain)2 ) (VCA NoiseńLNP Gain)2
+ Ǹ(1.1) 2 ) (1.8ń10) 2 ) (2.0ń10) 2 + 1.13nVń ǸHz
(2)
Repeating the above measurements for both VCA
configurations when the overall gain is 20dB yields the
following results:
Ǹ(0.82)2 ) (90ń10)2
+ 9.03nVń ǸHz
LOW NOISE PREAMPLIFIER (LNP)—DETAIL
The LNP is designed to achieve exceptionally low noise
performance when employed with or without active
feedback. The proprietary LNP architecture can be
electronically programmed, eliminating the need for
off-board components to alter the gain. A simplified
schematic of this amplifier is shown in Figure 55. FET pairs
Q1−Q2, Q3−Q4, Q5−Q6 and Q7−Q8 each represent a
different LNP gain. The four switches are 22dB, 18dB,
12dB and 3dB. One of the unique gain settings is selected
when one of the four switches Q9 through Q12 are
selected. Table 2 shows the relationship between the gain
selection bits, G1 and G2, and the corresponding gain.
Table 2. Gain Selection of LNP
(3)
LNP GAIN (dB)
G1
G2
0
0
3
0
1
12
1
0
18
1
1
22
VDD
Q13
Digital Gain Select
Q9
Q10
Q11
Q14
Q12
−IN
+IN
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q5
Q6
Q7
Q8
−OUT
+OUT
Figure 55. Programmable LNP
16
(4)
The VGA has a continuously-variable gain range of 52dB
with the ability to select either of two options. The gain of
the VGA can either be varied from −12dB to 40dB, or from
−18dB to 34dB. The VGA output can be programmed to
clip precisely at a predetermined voltage that is selected
by the user. When the user applies a voltage to pin 18
(VCLMP), the output will have a peak-to-peak voltage that is
given by the graph shown in Figure 48.
For the VCA with a variable gain amplifier (Figure 53):
Total Noise (RTI) +
Ǹ(1.1)2 ) (1.8ń10) 2 ) (2.0ń0.10)2
+ 14nVń ǸHz
When the block diagram shown in Figure 53 has a
combined gain of 60dB, the noise referred to the input
(RTI) is given by the expression:
Total Noise (RTI) +
For the VCA with a variable attenuation attenuator
(Figure 54):
"
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
The ability to change the gain electronically offers
additional flexibility for optimizing the gain in order to
achieve either maximum signal-handling capability or
maximum sensitivity. Table 3 lists the input and output
signal-handling capability of the LNP.
LNP Gain
11
00
(10V/div)
Table 4 shows the voltage noise of the LNP for different
gain settings.
Table 3. Signal Handling Capability of LNP
11
MAX INPUT
(VPP Single-Ended)
0.23
MAX OUTPUT
(VPP Differential)
3.5
18
10
0.39
3.5
12
01
0.78
3.5
3
00
2.3
3.0
GAIN
(dB)
G1, G2
22
VOLTAGE NOISE
(nV/√Hz) at 5MHz
22
0.8
18
1.1
12
1.9
3
4.9
Time (200ns/div)
Figure 57. LNP Gain Change Response
The LNP also feeds a MUX, which accepts the LNP signal
or can receive an external signal. When applying an
external signal to the MUX (VCAIN), the signal should be
biased to a common-mode voltage in the range of 1.85V
to 3.15V. This biasing could be accomplished by using the
2.5V level of the VCM pin (19) of the VCA2615.
Table 4. LNP Gain vs Voltage Noise
LNP GAIN (dB)
LNP
Output
(500mV/div)
The current noise for the LNP is 1pA/√Hz for all gain
settings. The input capacitance of the LNP is 45pF.
The LNP output drives a buffer and a multiplexer (MUX)
along with a feedback network that can be used to program
the input impedance. Figure 56 shows a block diagram of
how these circuits are connected together. The output of
the LNP feeds a buffer to avoid the loading effect of the
feedback resistors and to achieve a more robust capability
for driving external circuits.
To MUX
(VGAIN )
IN
VCM
Figure 58. Recommended Circuit for Coupling an
External Signal into the MUX
INPUT IMPEDANCE
Feedback
Resistors
Figure 59 shows a simplified schematic of the resistor
feedback network along with Table 5 that relates the FB1,
FB2, FB3 and FB4 code to the selected value. When the
selection bits leave the feedback network in the open
position, the input resistance of the LNP will become
100kΩ.
LNP OUT
Buffer
IN
LNP
MUX
VGA
OUT
1500Ω
(FB1)
1000Ω
(FB2)
500Ω
(FB3)
250Ω
(FB4)
VGA IN
Figure 56. Block Diagram of LNP/VGA Interface
See Figure 57,which shows the response time of the LNP
gain changing from minimum to maximum.
IN
LNP
Buffer
OUT
Figure 59. Feedback Resistor Network
17
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
Table 5. Feedback Resistor Settings
FEEDBACK
RESISTOR
(W)
FB4
FB3
FB2
FB1
130
0
0
0
0
143
0
0
0
1
150
0
0
1
0
167
0
0
1
1
176
0
1
0
0
200
0
1
0
1
214
0
1
1
0
250
0
1
1
1
273
1
0
0
0
333
1
0
0
1
375
1
0
1
0
500
1
0
1
1
600
1
1
0
0
1000
1
1
0
1
1500
1
1
1
0
Open
1
1
1
1
wasted in the termination resistor itself. Another example
may clarify this point. First, consider that the input source,
at the far end of the signal cable, has a cable-matching
source resistance of RS. Using a conventional shunt
termination at the LNP input, a second terminating resistor
RS is connected to ground. Therefore, the signal loss is
6dB because of the voltage divider action of the series and
shunt RS resistors. The effective source resistance has
been reduced by the same factor of two, but the noise
contribution has been reduced only by the √2, which is
only a 3dB reduction. Therefore, the net theoretical SNR
degradation is 3dB, assuming a noise-free amplifier input.
In practice, the amplifier noise contribution will degrade
both the un-terminated and the terminated noise figures.
Figure 60 shows an amplifier using active feedback.
RF
RS
As explained previously, the LNP gain can have four
different values while the feedback resistor can be
programmed to have 16 different values. This variable gain
means that the input impedance can take on 61 different
values given by the formula shown below:
R IN +
A
RIN
RIN =
RF
(1 )
ALNP
2
Active Feedback
RF
= RS
1+A
RS
)
(5)
Where RF is the value of the feedback resistor and ALNP
is the differential gain of the LNP in volts/volt. The variable
gain enables the user to most precisely match the LNP
input impedance to the various probe and cable
impedances to achieve optimum performance under a
variety of conditions. No additional components are
required in order to determine the input impedance.
The resistor values shown in Table 5 represent typical
values. Due to process variation, the actual values of the
resistance can differ by as much as 20%.
ACTIVE FEEDBACK TERMINATION
One of the key features of an LNP architecture is the ability
to employ active-feedback termination in order to achieve
superior noise performance. Active-feedback termination
achieves a lower noise figure than conventional shunt
termination essentially because no signal current is
18
LNPIN
A
RS
Conventional Cable Termination
Figure 60. Configurations for Active Feedback
and Conventional Cable Termination
This diagram appears very similar to a traditional inverting
amplifier. However, A in this case is not a very large
open-loop op-amp gain; rather, it is the relatively low and
controlled gain of the LNP itself. Thus, the impedance at
the inverting amplifier terminal will be reduced by a finite
amount, as given in the familiar relationship of:
R IN +
RF
(1 ) A)
(6)
where RF is the programmable feedback resistor, A is the
user-selected gain of the LNP, and RIN is the resulting
amplifier input impedance with active feedback.
"
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In this case, unlike the conventional termination shown in
Figure 60, both the signal voltage and the RS noise are
attenuated by the same factor of two (or 6dB) before being
re-amplified by the A gain setting. This configuration
avoids the extra 3dB degradation because of the
square-root effect described above, which is the key
advantage of the active termination technique. As noted,
the previous explanation ignored the input noise
contribution of the LNP itself. Also, the noise contribution
of the feedback resistor must be included for a completely
correct analysis. The curves shown in Figure 61 and
Figure 62 allow the VCA2615 user to compare the
achievable noise figure for active and conventional
termination methods.
VCA NOISE = 3.8nV√Hz, LNP GAIN = 20dB
9
LNP Noise
nV/√Hz
6.0E−10
8.0E−10
1.0E−09
1.2E−09
1.4E−09
1.6E−09
1.8E−09
2.0E−09
8
Noise Figure (dB)
7
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
0
100
200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000
Source Impedance (Ω)
Figure 61. Noise Figure for Active Termination
VCA NOISE = 3.8nV√Hz, LNP GAIN = 20dB
14
LNP Noise
nV/√Hz
6.0E−10
8.0E−10
1.0E−09
1.2E−09
1.4E−09
1.6E−09
1.8E−09
2.0E−09
Noise Figure (dB)
12
10
8
6
4
2
0
0
100
200 300 400 500
600 700 800 900 1000
Source Impedance (Ω)
Figure 62. Noise Figure for Conventional
Termination
VOLTAGE-CONTROLLED AMPLIFIER (VCA)—
DETAIL
Figure 63 shows a simplified schematic of the VCA. The
VCA2615 is a true voltage-controlled amplifier, with the
gain expressed in dB directly proportional to a control
signal. This architecture compares to the older VCA
products where a voltage-controlled attenuator was
followed by a fixed-gain amplifier. With a variable-gain
amplifier, the output noise diminishes as the gain reduces.
A variable-gain amplifier, where the output amplifier gain
is fixed, will not show diminished noise in this manner.
Refer to Table 6, which shows a comparison between the
noise performance at different gains for the VCA2615 and
the older VCA2616.
Table 6. Noise vs Gain (RG = 0)
PRODUCT
GAIN (dB)
NOISE RTI (nV/√Hz)
VCA2615
60
0.7
VCA2615
20
9.0
VCA2616
60
1.1
VCA2616
20
14.0
The VCA accepts a differential input at the +IN and −IN
terminals. Amplifier A1, along with transistors Q2 and Q3,
forms a voltage follower that buffers the +IN signal to be
able to drive the voltage-controlled resistor. Amplifier A3,
along with transistors Q27 and Q28, plays the same role
as A1. The differential signal applied to the
voltage-controlled resistor network is converted to a
current that flows through transistors Q1 through Q4.
Through the mirror action of transistors Q1/Q5 and Q4/Q6,
a copy of this same current flows through Q5 and Q6.
Assuming that the signal current is less than the
programmed clipping current (that is, the current flowing
through transistors Q7 and Q8), the signal current will then
go through the diode bridge (D1 through D4) and be sent
through either R2 or R1, depending upon the state of Q9.
This signal current multiplied by the feedback resistor
associated with amplifier A2, determines the signal
voltage that is designated −OUT. Operation of the circuitry
associated with A3 and A4 is identical to the operation of
the previously described function to create the signal
+OUT.
A1 and its circuitry form a voltage-to-current converter,
while A2 and its circuitry form a current-to-voltage
converter. This architecture was adapted because it has
excellent signal-handling capability. A1 has been
designed to handle a large voltage signal without
overloading, and the various mirroring devices have also
been sized to handle large currents. Good overload
capability is achieved as both the input and output
amplifier are not required to amplify voltage signals.
19
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
impedance connection to join the two sections of the
resistor network. Capacitor C could be replaced by a
short-circuit. By providing a DC connection, the output
offset will be a function of the gain setting. Typically, the
offset at this point is ±10mV; thus, if the gain varies from
1 to 100, the output offset would vary from ±10mV to
±100mV.
Voltage amplification occurs when the input voltage is
converted to a current; this current in turn is converted
back to a voltage as amplifier A2 acts as a transimpedance
amplifier. The overall gain of the output amplifier A2 can be
altered by 6dB by the action of the H/L signal. This enables
more optimum performance when the VCA interfaces with
either a 10-bit or 12-bit analog-to-digital converter (ADC).
An external capacitor (C) is required to provide a low
Clipping Program
Circuitry
VDD
H/L
R1
Q1
Q5
Q7
Q9
R2
+IN
Q2
D1
D2
D3
D4
A1
Q3
A2
VCM
Q4
Q6
External
Capacitor
Q8
VCNTL
Q10
Q12
Q14
Q16
Q18
Q20
Q22
Q24
CEXT 2
VCA
Program
Circuitry
C
CEXT 1
Q11
Q13
Q15
Q17
Q19
Q21
Q23
Q25
Voltage−Controlled
Resistor Network
Q26
Q30
Control Signal
Q32
VCM
Q27
D5
D6
D7
D8
A4
A3
R3
Q28
−IN
R4
Q29
Q31
Q33
Q34
VDD
Clipping Program
Circuitry
VCLMP
Figure 63. Block Diagram of VCA
20
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
VARIABLE GAIN CHARACTERISTICS
Transistors Q10, Q12, Q14, Q16, Q18, Q20, Q22, and Q24
form a variable resistor network that is programmed in an
exponential manner to control the gain. Transistors Q11,
Q13, Q15, Q17, Q19, Q21, Q23, and Q25 perform the
same function. These two groups of FET variable resistors
are configured in this manner to balance the capacitive
loading on the total variable-resistor network. This
balanced configuration is used to keep the second
harmonic component of the distortion low. The common
source connection associated with each group of FET
variable resistors is brought out to an external pin so that
an external capacitor can be used to make an AC
connection. This connection is necessary to achieve an
adequate low-frequency bandwidth because the coupling
capacitor would be too large to include within the
monolithic chip. The value of this variable resistor ranges
in value from 15Ω to 5000Ω to achieve a gain range of
about 44dB. The low-frequency bandwidth is then given by
the formula:
Low Frequency BW + 1ń2pRC
Channel 1
VCNTL
(2V/div)
Channel 2
Output
(20mV/div)
Time (400ns/div)
Figure 64. Response to Step Change of VCNTL
(7)
where:
R is the value of the attenuator.
Channel 1
VCNTL
(2V/div)
C is the value of the external coupling capacitor.
For example, if a low-frequency bandwidth of 500kHz was
desired and the value of R was 15Ω, then the value of the
coupling capacitor would be approximately 22nF.
One of the benefits of this method of gain control is that the
output offset is independent of the variable gain of the
output amplifier. The DC gain of the output amplifier is
extremely low; any change in the input voltage is blocked
by the coupling capacitor, and no signal current flows
through the variable resistor. This method also means that
any offset voltage existing in the input is stored across this
coupling capacitor; when the resistor value is changed, the
DC output will not change. Therefore, changes in the
control voltage do not appear in the output signal.
Figure 64 shows the output waveform resulting from a step
change in the control voltage, and Figure 65 shows the
output voltage resulting when the control voltage is a
full-scale ramp.
Channel 2
Output
(20mV/div)
Time (400ns/div)
Figure 65. Response to Ramp Change of VCNTL
The exponential gain control characteristic is achieved
through a piecewise approximation to a perfectly smooth
exponential curve. Eight FETs, operated as variable
resistors whose value is progressively 1/2 of the value of
the adjacent parallel FET, are turned on progressively, or
their value is lowered to create the exponential gain
characteristic. This characteristic can be shown in the
following way. An exponential such as y = ex increases in
the y dimension by a constant ratio as the x dimension
increases by a constant linear amount. In other words, for
a constant (x1 − x2), the ratio ex1/ex2 remains the same.
When FETs used as variable resistors are placed in
parallel, the attenuation characteristic that is created
behaves according to this same exponential characteristic
at discrete points as a function of the control voltage.
It does not perfectly obey an ideal exponential
characteristic at other points; however, an 8-section
approximation yields a ±1dB error to an ideal curve.
21
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PROGRAMMABLE CLIPPING
The clipping level of the VCA can be programmed to a
desired output. The programming feature is useful when
matching the clipped level from the output of the VCA to
the full-scale range of a subsequent VCA, in order to
prevent the VCA from generating false spectral signals;
see the circuit diagram shown in Figure 66. The signal
node at the drain junction of Q5 and Q6 is sent to the diode
bridge formed by diode-connected transistors, D1 through
D4. The diode bridge output is determined by the current
that flows through transistors Q7 and Q8. The maximum
current that can then flow into the summing node of A2 is
this same current; consequently, the maximum voltage
output of A2 is this same current multiplied by the feedback
resistor associated with A2. The maximum output voltage
of A2, which would be the clipped output, can then be
controlled by adjusting the current that flows through Q7
and Q8; see the circuit diagram shown in Figure 63. The
circuitry of A1, R2, and Q2 converts the clamp voltage
(VCLMP) to a current that controls equal and opposite
currents flowing through transistors Q5 and Q6.
When H/L = 0, the previously described circuitry is
designed so that the value of the VCLMP signal is equal to
the peak differential signal developed between +VOUT and
−VOUT. When H/L = 1, the differential output will be equal
to the clamp voltage. This method of controlled clipping
also achieves fast and clean settling waveforms at the
output of the VCA, as shown in Figure 67 through
Figure 70. The sequence of waveforms demonstrate the
clipping performance during various stages of overload.
The VCLMP pin represents a high impedance input
(> 100kΩ).
In a typical application, the VCA2615 will drive an
anti-aliasing filter, which in turn will drive an ADC. Many
modern ADCs, such as the ADS5270, are well-behaved
with as much as 2x overload. This means that the clipping
level of the VCA should be set to overcome the loss in the
filter such that the clipped input to the ADC is just slightly
over the full-scale input. By setting the clipping level in this
manner, the lowest harmonic distortion level will be
achieved without interfering with the overload capability of
the ADC.
VDD
R1
Q9
Q1
Q7
Q5
R2
VCLMP
A1
From
Buffered
Input
Q2
Clip Adjust
Input
D1
D2
D3
D4
H/L
A2
VCM
Output
Amp
R2
Q6
Q8
Figure 66. Clipping Level Adjust Circuitry
22
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LNP
Input
(50mV/div)
LNP
Input
(100mV/div)
Differential Output
(500mV/div)
Differential Output
(500mV/div)
VCNTL = 0.7V
Time (200ns/div)
Figure 67. Before Overload (100mVPP Input)
VCNTL = 0.7V
Figure 69. Overload (240mVPP Input)
LNP
Input
(50mV/div)
LNP
Input
(500mV/div)
Differential Output
(500mV/div)
Differential Output
(1V/div)
VCNTL = 0.7V
Time (200ns/div)
Figure 68. Approaching Overload (120mVPP Input)
Time (200ns/div)
VCNTL = 0.7V
Time (200ns/div)
Figure 70. Extreme Overload (2VPP Input)
POWER-DOWN MODES
When VDD (5V) is applied to the VCA2615, the total power
dissipation is typically 308mW. When the power is initially
applied to the VCA2615 with both PDV and PDL pins at a
logic low, the typical power dissipation will be 5mW. After
the VCA2615 has been enabled, if the PDL line is low with
the PDV line high, the typical power dissipation will be
approximately 100mW. After the VCA2615 has been
enabled, if the PDV line is low with the PDL line high, the
typical power dissipation will be approximately 200mW.
23
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SBOS316C − JULY 2005 − REVISED SEPTEMBER 2005
Revision History
DATE
REV
PAGE
SECTION
DESCRIPTION
1
Features
Changed 20dB/V to 22dB/V under LOW-NOISE VARIABLE-GAIN AMPLIFIER
3
Electrical Characteristics
Added CA, CB = 3.9µF to the overall conditions.
Accuracy section; moved Gain Slope line under accurary, added “VCNTL = 0.4V
to 2.0V” to conditions, and changed typical value from 20dBv to 22dB/V.
8/04/05
C
4
Electrical Characteristics
5
Pin Configuration
Pin 19 description; changed 0.01µF to 0.1µF.
22
Programmable Clipping
Reworded paragraph three to clarify description of setting VCA clipping level.
Thermal Characteristics section; removed “Specified” and added “Operating” to
conditions.
NOTE: Page numbers for previous revisions may differ from page numbers in the current version.
24
PACKAGE OPTION ADDENDUM
www.ti.com
2-Aug-2005
PACKAGING INFORMATION
Orderable Device
Status (1)
Package
Type
Package
Drawing
Pins Package Eco Plan (2)
Qty
VCA2615RGZR
PREVIEW
QFN
RGZ
48
2500
TBD
Call TI
Call TI
VCA2615RGZT
PREVIEW
QFN
RGZ
48
250
TBD
Call TI
Call TI
Lead/Ball Finish
MSL Peak Temp (3)
(1)
The marketing status values are defined as follows:
ACTIVE: Product device recommended for new designs.
LIFEBUY: TI has announced that the device will be discontinued, and a lifetime-buy period is in effect.
NRND: Not recommended for new designs. Device is in production to support existing customers, but TI does not recommend using this part in
a new design.
PREVIEW: Device has been announced but is not in production. Samples may or may not be available.
OBSOLETE: TI has discontinued the production of the device.
(2)
Eco Plan - The planned eco-friendly classification: Pb-Free (RoHS) or Green (RoHS & no Sb/Br) - please check
http://www.ti.com/productcontent for the latest availability information and additional product content details.
TBD: The Pb-Free/Green conversion plan has not been defined.
Pb-Free (RoHS): TI's terms "Lead-Free" or "Pb-Free" mean semiconductor products that are compatible with the current RoHS requirements
for all 6 substances, including the requirement that lead not exceed 0.1% by weight in homogeneous materials. Where designed to be soldered
at high temperatures, TI Pb-Free products are suitable for use in specified lead-free processes.
Green (RoHS & no Sb/Br): TI defines "Green" to mean Pb-Free (RoHS compatible), and free of Bromine (Br) and Antimony (Sb) based flame
retardants (Br or Sb do not exceed 0.1% by weight in homogeneous material)
(3)
MSL, Peak Temp. -- The Moisture Sensitivity Level rating according to the JEDEC industry standard classifications, and peak solder
temperature.
Important Information and Disclaimer:The information provided on this page represents TI's knowledge and belief as of the date that it is
provided. TI bases its knowledge and belief on information provided by third parties, and makes no representation or warranty as to the
accuracy of such information. Efforts are underway to better integrate information from third parties. TI has taken and continues to take
reasonable steps to provide representative and accurate information but may not have conducted destructive testing or chemical analysis on
incoming materials and chemicals. TI and TI suppliers consider certain information to be proprietary, and thus CAS numbers and other limited
information may not be available for release.
In no event shall TI's liability arising out of such information exceed the total purchase price of the TI part(s) at issue in this document sold by TI
to Customer on an annual basis.
Addendum-Page 1
PACKAGE OPTION ADDENDUM
www.ti.com
18-Nov-2005
PACKAGING INFORMATION
Orderable Device
Status (1)
Package
Type
Package
Drawing
Pins Package Eco Plan (2)
Qty
VCA2615RGZR
ACTIVE
QFN
RGZ
48
2500
TBD
Call TI
Call TI
VCA2615RGZT
ACTIVE
QFN
RGZ
48
250
TBD
Call TI
Call TI
Lead/Ball Finish
MSL Peak Temp (3)
(1)
The marketing status values are defined as follows:
ACTIVE: Product device recommended for new designs.
LIFEBUY: TI has announced that the device will be discontinued, and a lifetime-buy period is in effect.
NRND: Not recommended for new designs. Device is in production to support existing customers, but TI does not recommend using this part in
a new design.
PREVIEW: Device has been announced but is not in production. Samples may or may not be available.
OBSOLETE: TI has discontinued the production of the device.
(2)
Eco Plan - The planned eco-friendly classification: Pb-Free (RoHS) or Green (RoHS & no Sb/Br) - please check
http://www.ti.com/productcontent for the latest availability information and additional product content details.
TBD: The Pb-Free/Green conversion plan has not been defined.
Pb-Free (RoHS): TI's terms "Lead-Free" or "Pb-Free" mean semiconductor products that are compatible with the current RoHS requirements
for all 6 substances, including the requirement that lead not exceed 0.1% by weight in homogeneous materials. Where designed to be soldered
at high temperatures, TI Pb-Free products are suitable for use in specified lead-free processes.
Green (RoHS & no Sb/Br): TI defines "Green" to mean Pb-Free (RoHS compatible), and free of Bromine (Br) and Antimony (Sb) based flame
retardants (Br or Sb do not exceed 0.1% by weight in homogeneous material)
(3)
MSL, Peak Temp. -- The Moisture Sensitivity Level rating according to the JEDEC industry standard classifications, and peak solder
temperature.
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Addendum-Page 1
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