Texas Instruments LMH6502MA
- Part No.:
- LMH6502MA
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 14-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
LMH6502MA.pdf
- Description:
- IC VARIABLE GAIN 1 CIRC 14SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LMH6502MA from Texas Instruments (formerly National Semiconductor) is a wideband, linear-in-dB voltage-controlled variable gain amplifier (VGA) with differential inputs and current-feedback output stage. It delivers 130MHz −3dB bandwidth, 70dB gain adjustment range up to 10MHz, ±75mA linear output current, and <350mV output-referred DC offset over full VG control range. It serves as the core gain-control element in high-speed AGC loops for video imaging and RF signal conditioning.
For engineers reviewing the LMH6502MA datasheet, LMH6502MA pinout, LMH6502MA application, or LMH6502MA equivalent, key selection considerations include its linear-in-dB transfer function, guaranteed device-to-device gain matching (±0.6dB), slew rate of 1800V/µs, single-supply-compatible 0V–2V VG range referenced to pin 11, and SOIC-14 package thermal resistance (θJA = 138°C/W).
Technical Context
The LMH6502MA integrates a DC-coupled differential input transconductance stage followed by a high-speed current-feedback op amp. Gain is controlled via a voltage applied to pin 2 (VG), where 0V yields near-cutoff and +2V delivers maximum gain (AVMAX = 10V/V typical). Its architecture enables precise dB-linear attenuation while maintaining flat frequency response (±0.3dB up to 30MHz at mid-attenuation).
It supports both dual-supply (±2.5V to ±5V) and single-supply operation via virtual ground at pin 11. The differential input structure provides >55dB CMRR and enables common-mode rejection in long-line or low-level amplification scenarios, while the current-feedback output sustains large-signal fidelity (1800V/µs slew rate) into 100Ω loads without stability compromise.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| −3dB Bandwidth | 130MHz - supports high-definition video baseband and IF signal paths up to 100MHz |
| Slew Rate | 1800V/µs - preserves fast edge integrity in pulse and composite video applications |
| Gain Adjustment Range | 72dB @ f < 10MHz - enables wide dynamic range compression in AGC systems |
| Gain Matching | ±0.6dB @ VG = 2.0V - ensures consistent channel-to-channel gain in multi-path systems |
| Output Current | ±75mA - drives 100Ω loads directly without external buffering |
| Input Voltage Noise | 7.7nV/√Hz - maintains SNR in low-amplitude signal chains (e.g., CCD sensor interfaces) |
| Supply Current | 27mA @ no load - enables low-power portable instrumentation designs |
Pinout & Package
LMH6502MA is housed in a 14-pin SOIC package (NSC drawing M14A, JEDEC MS-012), with θJA = 138°C/W and θJC = 45°C/W. Pin layout optimized for high-frequency layout: differential inputs on pins 3 (−IN) and 6 (+IN), VG control on pin 2, output on pin 10, and dedicated ground reference on pin 11.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 | V− Supply | Negative rail connection; must be decoupled within 1 cm of pin |
| Pin 2 | VG Control | Voltage input (0–2V) setting gain linearly in dB; bias current ≤300µA |
| Pin 3 | −IN Differential Input | Inverting input node; matched to pin 6 for CMRR >55dB |
| Pin 4 | RG− | Feedback resistor terminal for input transconductance stage |
| Pin 5 | RG+ | Feedback resistor terminal; forms gain-setting network with pin 4 |
| Pin 6 | +IN Differential Input | Non-inverting input node; common-mode range ±2.2V |
| Pin 7 | V+ Supply | Positive rail connection; requires local 0.1µF + 10µF bypassing |
| Pin 8 | NC | No connect - internal die pad; leave floating or tie to ground |
| Pin 9 | RF− | Inverting summing node of output CFA; sensitive to stray capacitance |
| Pin 10 | OUT | Current-feedback output; stable into 100Ω but requires snubber for >1kΩ loads |
| Pin 11 | GND | Reference ground for VG and VCM; tied to virtual half-supply in single-supply mode |
| Pin 12 | I− | Current sink node for Q2 collector; critical for gain linearity |
| Pin 13 | I+ | Current source node for Q1 collector; complements pin 12 in gain control |
| Pin 14 | NC | No connect - internal die pad; leave floating or tie to ground |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Linear-in-dB gain control | Enables precise, predictable AGC loop design without logarithmic conversion circuitry |
| Differential input architecture | Provides >55dB CMRR and rejects noise in long-cable or low-level analog signal paths |
| Current-feedback output stage | Delivers 1800V/µs slew rate and ±75mA drive into 100Ω, eliminating need for external buffers |
| Guaranteed gain accuracy | ±0.6dB max error at VG = 2.0V ensures repeatable system-level calibration |
| Single-supply compatible VG range | 0V–2V control voltage referenced to pin 11 allows use with 3.3V or 5V logic without level shifting |
Applications
| Video Imaging Processing | Automatic Gain Control (AGC) |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Amplifying analog RGB or Y/C signals from image sensors before ADC sampling in broadcast cameras. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: VGA front-end providing programmable gain to maintain constant signal amplitude across varying lighting conditions. Use Value: 70dB gain range and 130MHz bandwidth preserve color fidelity and edge sharpness in HD/4K video paths. | Use Scenario: Stabilizing output amplitude in RF receiver IF stages subject to fading or interference. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Core gain-control element in closed-loop AGC circuits with RMS detector and integrator feedback. Use Value: Linear-in-dB response enables stable loop dynamics and 40dB+ control range without complex compensation. |
| Variable Attenuator | Voltage-Controlled Filter |
Use Scenario: Precision signal level adjustment in test equipment such as vector signal analyzers and arbitrary waveform generators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digitally programmable attenuator replacing mechanical potentiometers or relay-based networks. Use Value: ±0.6dB gain matching and <350mV offset enable calibrated, repeatable attenuation steps across units. | Use Scenario: Tuning filter passband gain in adaptive equalizers for HDMI or DisplayPort signal integrity correction. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Gain-adjustable stage in active filter topologies where cutoff frequency remains fixed but amplitude is dynamically scaled. Use Value: DC-coupled differential inputs and 100MHz gain-control bandwidth support real-time filter adaptation without phase discontinuity. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar variable gain amplifier applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LMH6503MA | Linear (not dB-linear) gain control; higher THD (−48dBc vs −53dBc); same SOIC-14 package | Better suited for linear gain interpolation (e.g., digital pot emulation), not AGC | Select when gain law must be arithmetic rather than logarithmic |
| AD8367ARUZ | 500MHz bandwidth; 45dB gain range; requires external VREF; different pinout and supply scheme (5V only) | Higher bandwidth but narrower gain range; less suitable for low-power or dual-supply systems | Choose for RF/IF applications above 200MHz where LMH6502MA's 130MHz limit is insufficient |
Compared with LMH6502MA, LMH6503MA offers arithmetic gain control ideal for digitally interpolated settings, while AD8367ARUZ trades gain range and supply flexibility for significantly higher RF bandwidth-making LMH6502MA optimal for video, instrumentation, and medium-bandwidth AGC where dB-linearity and low-offset stability are critical.
Availability
LMH6502MA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for video imaging processing, automatic gain control (AGC), variable attenuator, and voltage-controlled filter applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for LMH6502MA 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 legacy high-performance analog products.
The LMH6502MA belongs to TI's LMH™ high-speed amplifier portfolio, designed specifically for wideband, precision gain-control applications in video, instrumentation, and communications infrastructure where dB-linear response and low distortion are essential.
FAQ
What is the guaranteed gain matching specification for LMH6502MA across production units?
The LMH6502MA guarantees device-to-device gain matching within ±0.6dB at maximum gain (VG = 2.0V), as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table. This tolerance holds over temperature (−40°C to +85°C) and ensures consistent performance in multi-channel systems. The LMH6502MA datasheet further confirms that gain at any VG is tested and tolerance is guaranteed, supporting calibrated system-level designs without per-unit trimming.
Can LMH6502MA operate from a single 5V supply, and how is the ground reference configured?
Yes, LMH6502MA supports single-supply operation: pin 11 (GND) must be tied to a stable virtual ground at approximately half the supply voltage (e.g., 2.5V for 5V total). The VG control range remains 0V–2V relative to this pin 11 potential, enabling direct interface with 3.3V or 5V DAC outputs. The LMH6502MA datasheet provides AC-coupled and transformer-coupled reference schematics (Figures 4 and 5) confirming robust functionality under this configuration.
What is the maximum recommended load impedance for stable operation of LMH6502MA without external compensation?
The LMH6502MA is fully stable driving a 100Ω load, as verified in the Absolute Maximum Ratings and Application Information sections. For loads >1kΩ, especially with capacitive loading, instability may occur above 400MHz. TI recommends adding a snubber (e.g., 100Ω + 39pF series to ground) at the LMH6502MA output (pin 10) or isolating capacitance with a small series resistor. This guidance is explicitly stated in the "Circuit Layout Considerations" section of the LMH6502MA datasheet.
How does the LMH6502MA achieve linear-in-dB gain control, and what is the practical gain range at 10MHz?
The LMH6502MA achieves linear-in-dB gain via a matched transistor pair (Q1/Q2) whose current division is controlled by VG, producing exponential current ratio versus linear VG. At 10MHz, the LMH6502MA delivers a guaranteed 72dB gain adjustment range (Attenuation Range parameter), with flatness maintained to ±0.3dB up to 30MHz. This is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "GR" and "Att Range" entries, making it suitable for wideband AGC where logarithmic response is required.
Is LMH6502MA pin-compatible with CLC520, and what is the basis for this replacement claim?
Yes, the LMH6502MA is a documented drop-in replacement for CLC520, as explicitly stated in the Applications section of the LMH6502MA datasheet ("Replacement for CLC520"). Both devices share identical SOIC-14 pinout, differential input architecture, and voltage-controlled gain functionality. TI's migration documentation confirms identical pin functions, supply requirements (±5V), and compatible gain control interface-enabling direct substitution without PCB changes in existing CLC520 designs.
LMH6502MA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- LMH®
- Package/Case:
- 14-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Amplifier Type:
- Variable Gain
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- -
- Slew Rate:
- 1800V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 130 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 9 µA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- 27mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 90 mA
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 5 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 12 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 14-SOIC
LMH6502MA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LMH6502MA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LMH6502MA on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for LMH6502MA reliable?
The price and inventory of LMH6502MA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LMH6502MA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LMH6502MA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LMH6502MA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LMH6502MA?
LMH6502MA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LMH6502MA order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for LMH6502MA?
For technical support, including LMH6502MA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LMH6502MA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LMH6502MA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LMH6502MA products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that LMH6502MA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LMH6502MA?
All LMH6502MA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LMH6502MA, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The LMH6502MA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LMH6502MA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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