Texas Instruments LMH6502MAX
- Part No.:
- LMH6502MAX
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 14-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
LMH6502MAX.pdf
- Description:
- IC VARIABLE GAIN 1 CIRC 14SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

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Product details
Overview
LMH6502MAX from Texas Instruments (formerly National Semiconductor) is a wideband, DC-coupled, linear-in-dB variable gain amplifier (VGA) with differential voltage-controlled gain stage followed by a high-speed current-feedback op amp. It delivers 130MHz −3dB bandwidth, 70dB gain adjustment range up to 10MHz, and ±75mA linear output current - enabling precise analog gain control in video imaging, AGC loops, and broadband signal conditioning systems.
For engineers reviewing the LMH6502MAX datasheet, LMH6502MAX pinout, LMH6502MAX application, or LMH6502MAX equivalent, key selection criteria include its linear-in-dB gain law, low 350mV max output offset over full VG range, ±0.6dB device-to-device gain matching at maximum gain, and compatibility with ±5V to ±6.3V dual supplies or single-supply operation via virtual ground at Pin 11.
Technical Context
The LMH6502MAX implements a differential input transconductance stage where gain is controlled by a voltage (VG) applied to Pin 2, biasing matched NPN transistor pair Q1/Q2 to steer signal current through RF. Its current-feedback output stage provides 1800V/µs slew rate and drives 100Ω loads directly without stability compromise.
Gain accuracy is specified across VG = 0V to +2V (relative to Pin 11), with guaranteed tolerance and tested gain at each VG. Input common-mode range extends ±2.0V, CMRR exceeds −72dB, and PSRR remains >−45dB across supply rails - supporting robust operation in noisy mixed-signal environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| −3dB Bandwidth | 130MHz - supports high-fidelity video and RF IF signal paths up to 100MHz baseband. |
| Gain Adjustment Range | 72dB (f < 10MHz) - enables wide dynamic range compression or expansion in AGC systems. |
| Slew Rate | 1800V/µs - ensures faithful reproduction of fast transient signals without distortion clipping. |
| Output Current | ±75mA - drives 100Ω loads directly; eliminates need for external buffer stages in line-driver applications. |
| Input Voltage Noise | 7.7nV/√Hz - low-noise performance critical for preserving SNR in low-level signal amplification. |
| Gain Matching | ±0.6dB at max gain - minimizes channel-to-channel gain mismatch in multi-path or I/Q signal chains. |
| Supply Current | 27mA (no load, ±5V) - balances speed and power efficiency for portable or thermally constrained designs. |
| Output Offset Voltage | ±380mV max (0V < VG < 2V) - predictable DC error envelope simplifies offset trimming in closed-loop systems. |
Pinout & Package
LMH6502MAX is packaged in a 14-pin SOIC (NSC drawing M14A), 3.9mm × 8.7mm body, with standard JEDEC MS-012AC footprint and 1.27mm pitch. Thermal resistance θJA = 138°C/W enables reliable operation at full rated power dissipation (300mW).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Pin 1 (V−) | Negative supply rail | Connects to −5V to −6.3V; must be decoupled locally with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor. |
| Pin 2 (VG) | Gain control voltage input | 0V to +2V relative to Pin 11 sets gain linearly in dB; input impedance 10kΩ, bias current −300µA at 0V. |
| Pin 3 (+VIN) | Non-inverting differential input | DC-coupled; ±2.0V common-mode range; 750kΩ input resistance, 5pF capacitance. |
| Pin 4 (RG+) | Positive gain-setting resistor terminal | Connects to RG (typically 174Ω); forms transconductance path with Pin 5. |
| Pin 5 (RG−) | Negative gain-setting resistor terminal | Completes RG connection; matched layout critical for gain accuracy and thermal tracking. |
| Pin 6 (−VIN) | Inverting differential input | Complements Pin 3; enables true differential signaling or single-ended operation with Pin 3 grounded. |
| Pin 7 (NC) | No connect | Internally unused; leave floating or tie to ground per layout best practices. |
| Pin 8 (V+) | Positive supply rail | Connects to +5V to +6.3V; requires local 0.1µF ceramic bypass near package. |
| Pin 9 (NC) | No connect | Internally unused; no electrical function. |
| Pin 10 (VOUT) | Differential output | Current-feedback stage output; drives 100Ω loads directly; avoid capacitive loading >2pF. |
| Pin 11 (GND) | Reference ground / virtual ground node | Reference point for VG and VCM; in single-supply mode, tied to mid-rail (e.g., +2.5V for +5V system). |
| Pin 12 (I−) | Inverting current-summing node | Sensitive to stray capacitance; minimize trace area and avoid ground plane under this node. |
| Pin 13 (RF) | Feedback resistor terminal | Connects to RF (typically 1kΩ); determines output gain scaling and bandwidth stability. |
| Pin 14 (NC) | No connect | Internally unused; no electrical function. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Linear-in-dB gain law | Enables logarithmic amplitude control essential for AGC circuits with constant loop gain over decades of input level. |
| Differential input architecture | Provides >55dB CMRR, rejecting noise on long cables or in mixed-signal PCBs with shared ground references. |
| Current-feedback output stage | Delivers 130MHz bandwidth independent of closed-loop gain - unlike voltage-feedback op amps. |
| Guaranteed gain tolerance | Gain at any VG is factory-tested and specified, eliminating need for system-level calibration in production. |
| Single-supply ready interface | VG range referenced to Pin 11 allows seamless operation from +5V rail with virtual ground, reducing BOM count. |
| Low distortion at 20MHz | THD = −53dBc into 100Ω ensures minimal harmonic contamination in video and comms signal paths. |
Applications
| Video Imaging Processing | Automatic Gain Control (AGC) |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Real-time analog gain adjustment in broadcast-grade CCD/CMOS camera front-ends before ADC sampling. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: VGA core providing programmable gain from 0dB to 20dB while preserving differential video signal integrity and DC coupling. Use Value: Maintains 0.34% differential gain and 0.10° differential phase error at 4.43MHz, meeting NTSC/PAL fidelity requirements. |
Use Scenario: Closed-loop amplitude stabilization in RF receiver IF stages subject to fading or interference. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary gain-control element in feedback loop with LMH6714 post-amplifier and LMH6657 integrator. Use Value: 70dB attenuation range and linear-in-dB response enable stable 40dB AGC dynamic range without loop instability. |
| Variable Attenuator | Voltage-Controlled Filter |
|
Use Scenario: Precision analog signal leveling in test equipment such as spectrum analyzers and signal generators. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Digitally programmable attenuator using DAC-driven VG input for calibrated stepwise loss control. Use Value: ±0.6dB gain matching ensures repeatable attenuation steps across multiple units in automated calibration systems. |
Use Scenario: Tunable low-pass or band-pass filtering in software-defined radio (SDR) front-ends with adaptive bandwidth. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Gain-variable stage embedded in active filter topology to adjust cutoff frequency via VG voltage. Use Value: 100MHz gain-control bandwidth allows real-time filter reconfiguration synchronized with baseband processing. |
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-in-V gain law (not linear-in-dB); identical pinout and bandwidth; lower THD (−62dBc @20MHz). | Better suited for linear gain interpolation (e.g., digital potentiometer control), less ideal for logarithmic AGC. | Select LMH6503MA when gain must scale linearly with control voltage, not logarithmically. |
| AD8367ARUZ | 500MHz bandwidth; 45dB gain range; requires external reference; 52mA supply current; different 16-pin TSSOP package. | Higher-frequency RF/IF applications (e.g., cellular infrastructure), but lacks DC coupling and differential inputs. | Choose AD8367ARUZ for >200MHz signal paths where AC coupling and single-ended interfaces are acceptable. |
Compared with LMH6502MAX, LMH6503MA offers linear gain control and improved distortion but sacrifices logarithmic AGC suitability, while AD8367ARUZ delivers higher bandwidth and integrated detector but requires redesign for DC coupling, differential signaling, and SOIC-14 layout compatibility.
Availability
LMH6502MAX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for video imaging processing, automatic gain control (AGC), and variable attenuator applications requiring stable component supply, long-term industrial lifecycle support, and consistent parametric performance across temperature.
Supply support for LMH6502MAX 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 like the LMH6502MAX.
The LMH™ amplifier family was designed specifically for wideband, precision analog signal conditioning - emphasizing DC-coupled differential architectures, linear-in-dB control, and high-output-current drive capability for video, instrumentation, and communications systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum supply voltage rating for LMH6502MAX?
The LMH6502MAX has an absolute maximum supply voltage (V+ − V−) of 12.6V. Operating ratings specify a functional range of ±5V to ±6.3V (i.e., 10V to 12.6V total). Exceeding 12.6V risks permanent damage. At ±5V, the device draws 27mA quiescent current and delivers full 130MHz bandwidth and 72dB gain range. Derating applies above ±6.3V.
Does LMH6502MAX support true single-supply operation?
Yes - LMH6502MAX supports single-supply operation by tying Pin 11 (GND) to a virtual mid-rail reference (e.g., +2.5V for a +5V system). The VG input range (0V to +2V) is defined relative to Pin 11, and input common-mode range accommodates ±2.0V around that reference. Differential inputs allow rejection of rail noise, and output swings to within 300mV of either rail into 100Ω.
What is the guaranteed gain accuracy of LMH6502MAX across its VG range?
LMH6502MAX guarantees gain accuracy of +0.6dB / −0.3dB (typical) and +3.1dB / −3.6dB (limit) for VG between 1V and 2V, referenced to theoretical gain K·10^(VG/20). At VG = 2.0V, accuracy is 0.0 to +0.6dB. These values are factory-tested per unit, not statistical estimates - ensuring predictable system-level gain behavior without calibration.
Can LMH6502MAX drive a 50Ω load directly?
No - LMH6502MAX is characterized and guaranteed stable driving a 100Ω load. Driving 50Ω increases output current demand beyond its ±75mA linear specification and risks instability due to reduced phase margin. For 50Ω systems, use a series 50Ω resistor at the output (making effective load 150Ω) or add a unity-gain current-feedback buffer (e.g., THS3091) to preserve bandwidth and stability.
Is LMH6502MAX pin-compatible with CLC520?
Yes - LMH6502MAX is a direct replacement for CLC520, sharing identical SOIC-14 pinout, supply voltage range, gain control interface, and functional block diagram. TI documentation explicitly lists LMH6502 as the CLC520 replacement, with improvements including wider gain range (72dB vs. 60dB), lower distortion (−53dBc vs. −48dBc), and tighter gain matching (±0.6dB vs. ±1.0dB).
LMH6502MAX Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- LMH®
- Package/Case:
- 14-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- 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
LMH6502MAX FAQ
1.How can I place an order for LMH6502MAX through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for LMH6502MAX 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 LMH6502MAX reliable?
The price and inventory of LMH6502MAX are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for LMH6502MAX is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for LMH6502MAX?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for LMH6502MAX transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for LMH6502MAX?
LMH6502MAX orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your LMH6502MAX 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 LMH6502MAX?
For technical support, including LMH6502MAX datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your LMH6502MAX requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that LMH6502MAX is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All LMH6502MAX 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 LMH6502MAX meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of LMH6502MAX?
All LMH6502MAX units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with LMH6502MAX, 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 LMH6502MAX part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for LMH6502MAX:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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