Analog Devices Inc. SSM2160P

Overview

SSM2160P from Analog Devices is a 6-channel digitally controlled audio volume controller with master/balance functionality, implemented using voltage-controlled amplifiers (VCAs) and dual DAC architecture (7-bit master + six 5-bit channel DACs), delivering 100 dB gain range, –100 dBu noise floor, and clickless level adjustment for professional audio systems operating from ±4 V to ±7 V or +8 V to +14 V supplies.

For engineers reviewing the SSM2160P datasheet, SSM2160P pinout, SSM2160P application, or SSM2160P equivalent, key selection considerations include its 24-pin DIP package, serial 3-wire interface (CLK/DATA/LD), power-on mute behavior, analog common (ACOM) generation for single-supply use, and precise channel-to-channel gain matching within 0.25 dB at nominal settings.

Technical Context

The SSM2160P integrates six independent VCAs each driven by a dedicated 5-bit DAC (32 steps, 1 dB/step), plus a shared 7-bit master DAC (128 steps, 1 dB/step) that scales all channels simultaneously while preserving balance. Its control logic uses negative-edge-triggered serial shift register addressing with MSB-first data format and supports SPI/microwire compatibility via WRITE/LD tie.

Analog performance is anchored by on-chip buffered ACOM generation for single-supply operation, ±2 mA output drive capability, 5 Ω output impedance, and THD+N of 0.008% at 1 kHz with –10 dBu input and unity gain-enabled by high-precision resistor ladder design and controlled DAC slew rate to eliminate switching transients.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SSM2160P is housed in a 24-lead plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), with through-hole mounting, JEDEC MS-001 compliant footprint, and thermal resistance θ_JA = 60°C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar multi-channel analog volume control applications.

Compared with PGA2310U and CS4361-KQZ, the SSM2160P uniquely combines 6-channel VCA-based analog gain control, on-chip ACOM generation, and serial 3-wire simplicity-making it irreplaceable for legacy or hybrid audio systems requiring true analog signal path conditioning with zero-latency, clickless adjustment.

Availability

SSM2160P is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Dolby Pro-Logic receivers, Home THX preamplifiers, and automotive infotainment head units requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for SSM2160P 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

Analog Devices is a global semiconductor leader specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing technologies for precision instrumentation, industrial automation, and audio applications.

The SSM2160P belongs to Analog Devices' legacy audio signal conditioning product line, designed specifically for high-fidelity, multi-channel analog volume and balance control in professional and consumer audio equipment where clickless operation and channel-matched gain accuracy are critical.

FAQ

What is the function of the ACOM pin on the SSM2160P?

The ACOM pin on the SSM2160P provides an internally generated, buffered analog common reference voltage-nominally half the difference between V+ and V–-enabling single-supply operation without external rail-splitting circuitry. This allows the SSM2160P to bias AC-coupled audio signals correctly when powered from +8 V to +14 V, eliminating the need for discrete op-amp splitters and reducing board space and component count in compact audio designs.

Does the SSM2160P support both single-supply and dual-supply operation?

Yes, the SSM2160P supports both configurations: dual supply from ±4 V to ±7 V, or single supply from +8 V to +14 V. In single-supply mode, the on-chip ACOM generator creates a stable mid-rail reference, while AGND and DGND remain separate to maintain analog signal integrity. The device's absolute maximum ratings extend to ±18 V dual or +18 V single, providing design margin for transient conditions.

How does the SSM2160P achieve "clickless" volume adjustment?

The SSM2160P achieves clickless volume adjustment by combining high-linearity voltage-controlled amplifiers (VCAs) with slew-rate-limited DAC outputs. The 7-bit master and six 5-bit channel DACs drive VCA control ports with controlled rate-of-change, preventing abrupt voltage steps that cause audible transients. This architecture eliminates the switching noise typical of resistor-ladder attenuators-verified by 0.008% THD+N and –100 dBu SNR measurements in the official datasheet.

What is the purpose of the MSTR SET and CH SET pins on the SSM2160P?

The MSTR SET and CH SET pins on the SSM2160P allow external resistor networks to adjust the step size of the master DAC (7-bit) and individual channel DACs (5-bit), respectively. Using the formula R_M = 1400X/(1−X), where X is the desired step size in dB, designers can reduce default 1 dB steps to finer resolutions (e.g., 0.5 dB) for applications demanding higher granularity in volume or balance control without modifying firmware or interface timing.

Is the SSM2160P still in active production, and what is its temperature rating?

The SSM2160P is marked obsolete in the official Analog Devices documentation but remains available through authorized distributors and Aetrix Electronics with full traceability. It is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C and packaged in a 24-lead plastic DIP-making it suitable for industrial and automotive audio applications where long-term availability and proven reliability outweigh the need for newest-generation silicon.