Texas Instruments DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB

Overview

DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB from Texas Instruments (formerly National Semiconductor) is a 21-bit LVDS transmitter IC that converts parallel CMOS/TTL data into three differential LVDS data streams plus one LVDS clock stream, supporting up to 85 MHz shift clock and 1.785 Gbps aggregate throughput. It implements rising-edge data strobe timing, features integrated PLL with no external components, and targets high-speed point-to-point interconnects in display and imaging systems.

For engineers reviewing the DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB datasheet, DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB pinout, DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB application, or DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB equivalent, key selection criteria include 21-bit parallel-to-serial conversion, TSSOP-48 package compatibility, 3.3 V operation, ±1 V common-mode input range, and compliance with TIA/EIA-644 LVDS standard.

Technical Context

The DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB employs a phase-locked loop to generate a synchronized LVDS transmit clock aligned to the rising edge of the input clock, enabling precise sampling of 21-bit parallel inputs. Its transmitter architecture delivers three 7-bit LVDS data lanes plus one dedicated LVDS clock lane, maintaining channel-to-channel skew under 90 ps at 85 MHz.

It supports 20–85 MHz shift clock frequencies with 50% duty cycle output clock, operates across −10°C to +70°C ambient, and integrates separate power domains for TTL inputs (VCC), PLL (PLL VCC), and LVDS outputs (LVDS VCC) to minimize noise coupling and jitter.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB is housed in a low-profile 48-pin TSSOP package (NS MTD48), with dedicated power/ground pins segmented by function: 4× VCC (TTL logic), 5× GND (TTL logic), 1× PLL VCC, 2× PLL GND, 1× LVDS VCC, and 3× LVDS GND - enabling noise-isolated supply routing.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LVDS serializer applications.

Compared with DS90CR217MTD, DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB offers identical functionality with updated packaging and RoHS compliance (NOPB suffix), while SN65LVDS31DR serves a fundamentally different signal-conditioning role and cannot perform parallel-to-serial conversion or clock embedding.

Availability

DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial LCD panel interface, medical imaging sensor link, and automotive digital cluster display applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB 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

Texas Instruments acquired National Semiconductor in 2011 and maintains full technical and manufacturing continuity for its high-speed interface portfolio.

The DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB belongs to TI's Channel Link serializer family, designed specifically for EMI-sensitive, high-bandwidth parallel bus replacement in display, imaging, and instrumentation systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported clock frequency for DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB?

The DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB supports shift clock frequencies from 20 MHz to 85 MHz. At 85 MHz, it achieves 1.785 Gbps aggregate throughput (21 bits × 85 MHz). Operation above 85 MHz is not specified and violates absolute maximum ratings for timing margins and jitter performance. The device's PLL and output drivers are characterized and guaranteed only within this range.

Does DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB require external components for PLL operation?

No, DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB integrates a fully self-contained PLL with no external components required. Its internal loop filter and oscillator eliminate the need for external capacitors or resistors, simplifying layout and improving reliability. This is confirmed in the "Features" section of the official datasheet and validated in typical application schematics.

What is the recommended termination for DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB LVDS outputs?

Each LVDS differential pair (three data lanes and one clock lane) must be terminated with a single 100 Ω resistor across the true/complement lines at the receiver end. The resistor value should match the cable's differential characteristic impedance (typically 90–120 Ω); surface-mount placement adjacent to receiver pins minimizes stub effects and preserves signal integrity.

Can unused TxIN pins on DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB be left floating?

No, unused TxIN pins on DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB must not be left floating. Per the Applications Information section, they should be tied to ground (GND) to prevent noise coupling and undefined logic states. Floating TTL inputs risk increased power consumption, oscillation, or false triggering due to noise sensitivity.

Is DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB compatible with TIA/EIA-644 LVDS standard?

Yes, DS90CR218AMTDX/NOPB is explicitly designed and tested for full compatibility with the TIA/EIA-644 LVDS standard. Its differential output voltage (250–450 mV), common-mode range (±1 V around +1.2 V), and noise margin specifications meet all mandatory requirements of the standard, ensuring interoperability with compliant receivers.