Texas Instruments OPA521IRGWT
- Part No.:
- OPA521IRGWT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 20-VQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
OPA521IRGWT.pdf
- Description:
- IC OPAMP GP 1 CIRCUIT 20VQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:159
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Product details
Overview
OPA521IRGWT from Texas Instruments is a 2.5-A narrowband line driver IC designed for power-line communication (PLC) systems, delivering fixed –7 V/V closed-loop gain with 3.8-MHz bandwidth and integrated thermal/overcurrent protection. It operates from a single 7-V to 24-V supply, supports CENELEC A–D, FCC, and ARIB STD-T84 standards, and drives reactive low-impedance mains lines in smart metering and solar arc protection.
For engineers reviewing the OPA521IRGWT datasheet, OPA521IRGWT pinout, OPA521IRGWT application, or OPA521IRGWT equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world PLC interface constraints, quiescent current selection logic (51 mA vs. 78 mA), output swing limits (10 VPP @ 24 V), and fault flag behavior (IFLAG/TFLAG open-drain signaling).
Technical Context
The OPA521IRGWT implements a fixed-gain, high-current power amplifier stage optimized for narrowband PLC signal injection onto AC mains. Its internal architecture includes programmable current limiting via ILIM pin (resistor-settable up to 2.5 A), dual-mode quiescent current control (IQSET pin selects CENELEC or FCC/ARIB operating bands), and active-high open-drain fault flags (IFLAG for overcurrent, TFLAG for thermal shutdown at 140°C).
It features a 5-mm × 5-mm 20-pin VQFN (RGW) package with exposed thermal pad soldered to GND, supporting junction temperatures from –40°C to +125°C. The device uses a single-ended input configuration (+IN biased at V+/2, –IN referenced to GAIN_SET) and delivers ±1.9-A continuous output into 50-Ω loads while maintaining THD+N < –60 dB across CENELEC bands.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gain | Fixed –7 V/V closed-loop gain; enables precise signal level control without external feedback network. |
| Output Current | 2.5-A max peak (resistor-programmable via ILIM pin); sustains 1.9-A DC into 50-Ω load at 25°C. |
| Bandwidth | 3.82 MHz small-signal bandwidth; supports PRIME, G3, and P1901.2 narrowband PLC waveforms. |
| Supply Range | 7 V to 24 V single supply; allows direct integration with industrial 12-V/24-V rails and battery-backed metering systems. |
| Quiescent Current | 51 mA (CENELEC mode) or 78 mA (FCC/ARIB mode); selected by IQSET pin voltage level. |
| Thermal Shutdown | Triggers at 140°C junction temperature with 10°C hysteresis; resumes operation at 130°C. |
| Noise Density | 16.5 µVRMS (CENELEC Band D, 140–148 kHz); meets EN50065-1 conducted emission requirements. |
Pinout & Package
OPA521IRGWT is housed in a surface-mount 5-mm × 5-mm 20-pin VQFN (RGW) package with exposed thermal pad that must be soldered to PCB ground for thermal integrity.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| EN (11) | Enable input | Active-high digital control; places device in 58-µA shutdown state when low. |
| +IN (9), –IN (7) | Differential input pair | +IN biased at V+/2; –IN sets gain node-external resistor to GAIN_SET adjusts gain beyond –7 V/V. |
| IQSET (15) | Quiescent current mode select | High (>2 V) configures FCC/ARIB mode (78 mA IQ); low (<0.8 V) selects CENELEC mode (51 mA IQ). |
| ILIM (12) | Current limit programming | Resistor-to-GND sets max output current (e.g., 0 Ω → 2.5 A; 10 kΩ → ~1 A). |
| IFLAG (13), TFLAG (14) | Fault status outputs | Open-drain, active-high flags indicating current limit or thermal shutdown; require external 3.3-V pullup. |
| VOUT (18, 19) | Power output terminals | Parallel-connected outputs deliver combined 2.5-A drive capability into low-Z mains lines. |
| V+ (1, 20), GND (16, 17) | Power supply connections | Dual V+ pins reduce IR drop; dual GND pins improve grounding for high-current return paths. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated thermal & overcurrent protection | Automatic shutdown at 140°C junction temp and programmable current limit eliminate need for external sensing circuitry. |
| Standards-compliant narrowband drive | Meets EN50065-1/2/3/7, FCC Part 15, and ARIB STD-T84 for CENELEC A–D, FSK, SFSK, and NB-OFDM PLC protocols. |
| Pin-selectable quiescent current | Reduces system standby power by >99% (58 µA shutdown) and enables band-specific optimization (51 mA vs. 78 mA). |
| High-output-swing capability | Delivers 10-VPP output with 24-V supply-sufficient headroom for 5-V logic interfacing and transformer-coupled line drive. |
| Robust fault signaling | Separate IFLAG and TFLAG open-drain outputs allow independent monitoring of current and thermal faults in real time. |
Applications
| Power Quality Meter | Merchant Network PSU |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Real-time grid voltage/frequency monitoring and harmonic analysis in DIN-rail mounted utility meters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current line driver injecting narrowband PLC signals onto 230-VAC mains for upstream data aggregation. Use Value: 2.5-A peak drive ensures reliable signal coupling despite fluctuating mains impedance (1–30 Ω) and reactive loading from household appliances. |
Use Scenario: Bidirectional communication between server rack PSUs and central energy management controllers in data centers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PLC transmitter amplifying G3-compliant waveforms onto shared AC distribution bus for firmware updates and load balancing. Use Value: Fixed –7 V/V gain and 3.8-MHz bandwidth maintain signal fidelity across CENELEC Band C (125–140 kHz), meeting PRIME v1.4 timing jitter requirements. |
| Solar Arc Protection | Central Inverter Control |
Use Scenario: Rapid detection and isolation of series arc faults in photovoltaic string wiring using high-frequency PLC-based impedance sensing. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Narrowband line driver generating 140–148 kHz NB-OFDM excitation signals compliant with UL 1699B Annex B. Use Value: 16.5 µVRMS noise in CENELEC Band D ensures >60-dB SNR for sub-ohm arc impedance resolution under noisy DC-side EMI conditions. |
Use Scenario: Grid-synchronization command transmission from central inverter controller to distributed microinverters in commercial rooftop PV arrays. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust PLC transmitter driving ITU-G.hnem-compliant signals onto shared AC bus despite high dv/dt transients from PWM inverters. Use Value: Integrated thermal protection prevents latch-up during sustained 1.9-A output into 2-Ω line impedance, enabling continuous 24/7 command channel operation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar line driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| TAS5342AIDBTR | Higher 4-A peak output but no integrated current limit or thermal flag; requires external protection circuitry. | Targeted at audio-class D amplifiers-not certified for EN50065 or PLC band compliance. | Choose only if PLC certification is unnecessary and higher peak current justifies added board area and design complexity. |
| THS3491IRGFT | Wider 900-MHz bandwidth and 1000-V/µs slew rate-but lacks programmable IQ, fault flags, and mains-rated protection. | Designed for RF/IF signal chains; no CENELEC/FCC compliance or thermal shutdown logic. | Select when ultra-wideband signal generation is required and safety-critical PLC standards do not apply. |
Compared with TAS5342AIDBTR and THS3491IRGFT, the OPA521IRGWT uniquely integrates PLC-specific compliance (EN50065, G3, PRIME), pin-selectable quiescent current, and dual open-drain fault flags-reducing BOM count and validation effort for certified smart-grid hardware.
Availability
OPA521IRGWT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for power quality metering, merchant network PSUs, solar arc protection, and central inverter control requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and regulatory environments.
Supply support for OPA521IRGWT 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 is a global semiconductor company specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in precision amplifiers, power management, and industrial communications ICs.
The OPA521IRGWT belongs to TI's high-reliability power-line communication amplifier product line, engineered specifically for EN50065-compliant narrowband PLC transmitters in utility-grade metering and renewable energy systems.
FAQ
What is the maximum continuous output current specification for the OPA521IRGWT?
The OPA521IRGWT delivers up to 1.9 A of continuous output current at 25°C case temperature, as specified in the Recommended Operating Conditions table. Its peak current capability is 2.5 A, programmable via an external resistor on the ILIM pin (pin 12), and it includes built-in thermal and overcurrent protection to prevent damage during transient overload events.
How does the IQSET pin affect the operation of the OPA521IRGWT?
The IQSET pin (pin 15) configures the OPA521IRGWT's quiescent current mode: applying >2 V selects FCC/ARIB operation (78 mA typical IQ), while <0.8 V selects CENELEC Bands A–D (51 mA typical IQ). This pin directly determines the amplifier's bias point and power consumption profile-enabling compliance with regional spectral mask requirements without changing external components.
Does the OPA521IRGWT support gain adjustment beyond the default –7 V/V?
Yes-the OPA521IRGWT supports gain increase beyond its nominal –7 V/V closed-loop gain by connecting an external resistor between the GAIN_SET pin (pin 8) and the –IN pin (pin 7). The datasheet provides gain-vs-resistor curves; no modification to the core amplifier topology is required, and stability is maintained across the extended range per Figure D004.
What are the absolute maximum supply voltage limits for the OPA521IRGWT?
The OPA521IRGWT has an absolute maximum supply voltage rating of 26 V on the V+ pins (pins 1 and 20), as stated in Section 6.1 of the SBOS872A datasheet. Operation above this voltage risks permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, the recommended operating range remains 7 V to 24 V, with thermal derating applied above 125°C junction temperature.
How do the IFLAG and TFLAG pins function on the OPA521IRGWT?
The IFLAG (pin 13) and TFLAG (pin 14) pins on the OPA521IRGWT are active-high, open-drain outputs that signal overcurrent and thermal limit conditions respectively. Each requires an external pullup resistor (e.g., 10 kΩ to 3.3 V). IFLAG pulses during transient overloads and asserts continuously for >100 ms during hard faults; TFLAG activates only when junction temperature exceeds 140°C and clears once below 130°C.
OPA521IRGWT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 20-VQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Amplifier Type:
- General Purpose
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- Single-Ended
- Slew Rate:
- 75V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- 3.82 MHz
- -3db Bandwidth:
- -
- Current - Input Bias:
- -
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- 51mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 2.5 A
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 7 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 24 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 125°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 20-VQFN (5x5)
OPA521IRGWT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for OPA521IRGWT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for OPA521IRGWT 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 OPA521IRGWT reliable?
The price and inventory of OPA521IRGWT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for OPA521IRGWT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for OPA521IRGWT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for OPA521IRGWT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for OPA521IRGWT?
OPA521IRGWT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your OPA521IRGWT 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 OPA521IRGWT?
For technical support, including OPA521IRGWT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your OPA521IRGWT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that OPA521IRGWT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All OPA521IRGWT 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 OPA521IRGWT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of OPA521IRGWT?
All OPA521IRGWT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with OPA521IRGWT, 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 OPA521IRGWT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for OPA521IRGWT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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