Texas Instruments PCI6612ZHK

Overview

PCI6612ZHK from Texas Instruments is a single-socket CardBus controller IC integrating IEEE 1394a-2000 OHCI two-port PHY/link-layer functionality, supporting 33 MHz PCI bus interface, 16-bit CardBus socket control, and dual 1394a physical layer with integrated link-layer logic. It enables legacy PC Card expansion in industrial docking stations and embedded laptop peripherals requiring FireWire connectivity and hot-plug CardBus support.

For engineers reviewing the PCI6612ZHK datasheet, PCI6612ZHK pinout, PCI6612ZHK application, or PCI6612ZHK equivalent, key selection criteria include its dual 1394a port implementation, PCI-to-CardBus bridge architecture, ExCA-compliant register set, integrated LDO voltage regulator, and support for Suspend/Resume power management per ACPI 1.0b and PCI 2.2 standards.

Technical Context

The PCI6612ZHK implements a PCI-to-CardBus bridge with Function 0 (CardBus subsystem), Function 1 (OHCI 1394 controller), and optional Functions 2–4 (Flash Media, SD Host, Smart Card). It supports PCI Bus Mastering for 1394 DMA transfers and uses a 48-MHz crystal for 1394 PHY timing.

Its power management includes PCI D0–D3hot states, CardBus suspend/resume via PME# assertion, integrated low-dropout voltage regulator (LDO-VR) for 3.3-V CardBus supply, and Clock Run Protocol compliance for dynamic clock gating during low-power operation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

PCI6612ZHK is housed in a 256-pin plastic ball grid array (PBGA) package measuring 17 mm × 17 mm with 1.0 mm ball pitch and an exposed thermal pad on the underside for enhanced heat dissipation. The package supports standard reflow soldering profiles and is rated for industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar CardBus + IEEE 1394 controller applications.

Compared with TIBB1394A2 and PCI6412ZHK, PCI6612ZHK uniquely integrates both dual 1394a PHY/link-layer and full CardBus bridge functionality in one die, reducing interconnect complexity and enabling true single-chip FireWire + PC Card expansion solutions.

Availability

PCI6612ZHK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial docking stations, embedded test equipment, laptop peripheral expansion, and legacy system upgrade modules requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for PCI6612ZHK 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, embedded processing, and connectivity technologies for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The PCIxx12 family-including PCI6612ZHK-was designed to consolidate CardBus bridge, IEEE 1394a OHCI link-layer, and dual PHY functionality into a single IC for space-constrained PC Card expansion applications.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the PCI6612ZHK?

The PCI6612ZHK is a multifunction PCI-to-CardBus bridge IC that integrates a dual-port IEEE 1394a-2000 OHCI controller with PHY and link-layer logic. It enables host systems to support hot-pluggable CardBus peripherals and FireWire devices through a single 33 MHz PCI interface. PCI6612ZHK handles all ExCA register mapping, power management signaling, and DMA coordination required for full PC Card and 1394 interoperability.

Does PCI6612ZHK require an external crystal oscillator?

Yes, PCI6612ZHK requires a 48-MHz fundamental-mode crystal oscillator connected to its X1/X2 pins to meet IEEE 1394a timing specifications for PHY operation. The device also includes an internal ring oscillator as a fallback clock source for non-1394 functions during crystal startup or failure, but 1394 link initialization and sustained operation depend on the external 48-MHz reference. PCI6612ZHK does not support PLL-based clock multiplication from lower-frequency crystals.

How many CardBus sockets does PCI6612ZHK support?

PCI6612ZHK supports exactly one CardBus socket - a single 68-pin Type II/III interface compliant with PC Card Standard Release 7.0. It implements full ExCA register compatibility, including socket event masking, power control, and status reporting. While the device exposes dual 1394a PHY ports, those are independent of the CardBus socket count; PCI6612ZHK does not provide multiple physical CardBus connectors or multiplexed socket control.

Is PCI6612ZHK compatible with ACPI power management?

Yes, PCI6612ZHK fully supports ACPI 1.0b power management features including G1/S3 (Suspend to RAM), wake-on-card-insertion, and PME# assertion for system resume. Its PCI configuration space includes Power Management Capabilities and Control/Status registers aligned with PCI 2.2 specification. PCI6612ZHK also implements Clock Run Protocol and integrated LDO-VR to meet ACPI-defined power state transitions without external supervisor circuitry.

What package type is used for PCI6612ZHK?

PCI6612ZHK is packaged in a 256-ball plastic ball grid array (PBGA) with dimensions of 17 mm × 17 mm and a 1.0 mm ball pitch. The package features an exposed thermal pad on the underside for efficient heat dissipation and is manufactured with lead-free, RoHS-compliant materials. It is designed for standard Pb-free reflow soldering processes and rated for operation across the industrial temperature range (–40°C to +85°C).