Analog Devices Inc. ADV7160KS170

Overview

ADV7160KS170 from Analog Devices is a 96-bit, 170 MHz true-color video RAM-DAC with triple 10-bit gamma-correcting DACs, integrated 64×64 hardware cursor, and on-board PLL. It serves as the core video output engine in high-resolution graphics subsystems, supporting 1600×1200×24-bit @ 85 Hz refresh and RS-343A/RS-170 analog RGB outputs for professional imaging and digital TV applications.

For engineers reviewing the ADV7160KS170 datasheet, ADV7160KS170 pinout, ADV7160KS170 application, or ADV7160KS170 equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world timing constraints (e.g., 170 MHz pixel clock, 4:1/2:1/8:1 multiplexing), DAC matching (≤3% max), and confirmed alternative options for legacy workstation and HDTV signal chain design.

Technical Context

The ADV7160KS170 implements a dual-path video data architecture: one path routes pixel data through 256×30 palette RAM to triple 10-bit DACs; the other bypasses RAM for direct pixel-to-DAC flow, enabling real-time overlay of active video windows on graphics backgrounds. Its programmable pixel port supports 24-bit, 16-bit, 15-bit, and 8-bit pseudo-color formats via configurable 2:1/4:1/8:1 multiplexing.

Timing is governed by an internal PLL referenced to a 900 kHz–40 MHz TTL input (PLLREF), generating precise pixel clocks up to 170 MHz. The device uses ECL-compatible differential CLOCK inputs, TTL-compatible LOADIN/LOADOUT for pixel data latching and synchronization, and includes tri-level SYNC functionality with dedicated TRISYNC control for HDTV compliance.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ADV7160KS170 is housed in a 160-lead thermally enhanced plastic quad flatpack (PQUAD), optimized for high-power video DAC operation with embedded heatsink. Pin layout follows standard QFP top-view orientation with Pin 1 marked at top-left corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar video DAC applications.

Compared with ADV7160KS170, the ADV7160KS2203 enables higher-resolution timing headroom while maintaining full register and pin compatibility, whereas the ADV7162KS1704 trades thermal enhancement for standard QFP manufacturability-both preserve identical video DAC performance and MPU interface behavior.

Availability

ADV7160KS170 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Windows accelerators, professional color prepress imaging systems, and digital TV signal generation requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for ADV7160KS170 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Analog Devices, Inc. is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors, headquartered in Norwood, MA.

The ADV7160 series belongs to Analog Devices' legacy video interface product line, designed specifically for high-resolution, true-color graphics subsystems in workstations and broadcast equipment requiring integrated RAM-DAC, cursor, and timing control.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported resolution and refresh rate for ADV7160KS170?

The ADV7160KS170 supports up to 1600×1200×24-bit resolution at 85 Hz screen refresh, enabled by its 170 MHz pixel clock capability and 96-bit programmable pixel port. This matches the timing requirements for high-end Windows accelerators and professional graphics workstations. The device also supports 1600×1200×16-bit and 8-bit pseudo-color modes at the same refresh rate, depending on multiplexing configuration and data format selection in the mode register.

Does ADV7160KS170 require an external voltage reference?

Yes, ADV7160KS170 requires an external 1.235 V precision voltage reference applied to the VREF pin. Analog Devices recommends the AD589 or equivalent two-terminal reference; resistor-divider networks are explicitly discouraged in the datasheet due to noise and drift sensitivity. The VREF accuracy directly impacts DAC gain linearity and grayscale error (±5% gray scale coding is specified at VREF = 1.235 V).

How does the 64×64 hardware cursor function in ADV7160KS170?

The ADV7160KS170 integrates a fully autonomous 64×64×2 hardware cursor generator with dedicated 2-color palette RAM. It operates independently of the main pixel pipeline and is controlled via cursor registers (CR1–CR5). The ODD/EVEN input ensures correct interlaced field alignment, and cursor position is updated via MPU writes to address registers-eliminating CPU polling or frame buffer updates during cursor motion in X-Windows environments.

Can ADV7160KS170 operate with TTL-level clock inputs?

No-ADV7160KS170's primary pixel clock inputs (CLOCK/CLOCK) are ECL-compatible (VAA–1.0 V to VAA–1.8 V), not TTL. However, the PLLREF input accepts TTL logic (0.8 V to 2.0 V) for PLL reference. For systems lacking ECL drivers, level-shifting circuitry or ECL-to-CMOS translators (e.g., Analog Devices ADCLV11) must be used on the CLOCK pair to meet input voltage and timing specifications (≤2 ns rise/fall time).

What is the purpose of the PS0 and PS1 pins on ADV7160KS170?

The PS0A–PS0D and PS1A–PS1D pins on ADV7160KS170 serve as palette priority selects with three operational modes: overlay (activating 3-color overlay palette), bypass (routing pixel data past color matrix/palette-ADV7160-only), and palette select (enabling multi-device RGB output multiplexing). Their state determines whether pixel data indexes the main palette RAM or triggers overlay/bypass behavior, providing hardware-level compositing without MPU intervention.