STMicroelectronics STHV748SQ

Overview

STHV748SQ from STMicroelectronics is a quad-channel, ±90 V, ±2 A high-speed ultrasound pulser IC for medical imaging transducer excitation. It delivers 3/5-level output waveforms, ≤20 ps jitter, 300 MHz T/R switch bandwidth, and integrated clamping-to-ground (8 Ω) with anti-leakage functionality. Used in phased-array ultrasound systems requiring precise HV pulse control and fast receiver decoupling.

For engineers reviewing the STHV748SQ datasheet, STHV748SQ pinout, STHV748SQ application, or STHV748SQ equivalent, key selection criteria include HV output swing (±90 V), peak current capability (±2 A per channel), CW-mode half-bridge specs (±0.6 A, ≤0.1 W), T/R switch on-resistance (13.5 Ω), and ESD-enhanced SOI process reliability.

Technical Context

The STHV748SQ integrates four independent pulser channels built on HV SOI technology, each combining dual half-bridges for 3/5-level waveform synthesis and a dedicated low-power CW half-bridge. Its architecture includes embedded floating high-voltage drivers, self-biasing circuitry, and anti-memory effect blocks for stable HV node operation across temperature and duty cycles.

Each channel features fully integrated clamping-to-ground (8 Ω synchronous active clamp), reinforced HV diodes for reflection suppression, and a monolithic T/R switch (13.5 Ω R_ON, 300 MHz BW) enabling receiver multiplexing. The 1.8–3.6 V CMOS logic interface supports 1.8 V digital input compatibility and thermal shutdown with latch-up immunity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

STHV748SQ is housed in a 64-pin QFN package (9 × 9 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin assignment follows ST's standard STHV748-compatible layout optimized for HV routing, ground separation, and thermal dissipation in ultrasound probe PCBs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-voltage ultrasound pulser applications.

Compared with STHV748 and TX7332, the STHV748SQ uniquely combines quad-channel ±90 V pulsing, monolithic 300 MHz T/R switching, and 1.8 V logic compatibility-enabling higher channel density, wider bandwidth imaging, and simplified probe electronics in next-generation ultrasound platforms.

Availability

STHV748SQ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical ultrasound imaging systems, NDT test equipment, piezoelectric actuator drivers, and portable Doppler modules requiring stable component supply and long-lifecycle support.

Supply support for STHV748SQ 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in automotive, industrial, and medical-grade analog and mixed-signal ICs.

The STHV series targets high-reliability ultrasound pulser applications, with the STHV748SQ specifically engineered for miniaturized, high-channel-count medical imaging probes demanding integrated HV switching, low jitter, and ESD-hardened SOI process integrity.

FAQ

What is the maximum safe operating voltage for STHV748SQ outputs?

The STHV748SQ supports a guaranteed output voltage range of ±90 V under all operating conditions. Its ESD-enhanced HV SOI process and integrated reinforced diodes allow safe operation up to ±120 V transient peaks from transducer reflections, provided external supply rails are properly decoupled and thermal limits are observed.

Does STHV748SQ require external gate resistors or bootstrap capacitors?

No. The STHV748SQ uses a fully self-biasing architecture with embedded floating high-voltage drivers. All HV MOSFET gate drive circuitry-including level translators, charge pumps, and bias networks-is monolithically integrated, eliminating external gate resistors, bootstrap capacitors, or auxiliary bias supplies.

How does the integrated T/R switch improve ultrasound system performance?

The monolithic 300 MHz T/R switch (13.5 Ω R_ON) provides low-loss, high-isolation decoupling between transmit pulses and receive echoes. Its integration eliminates PCB trace inductance and discrete switch parasitics, preserving wideband echo fidelity and enabling >100 dB dynamic range in portable ultrasound systems.

Can STHV748SQ operate in both pulsed and continuous-wave modes simultaneously?

Yes. Each channel supports standard pulsed operation (±2 A, ≤20 ps jitter), while its dedicated CW half-bridge operates independently at ±0.6 A with ≤0.1 W consumption and 205 fs RMS jitter. This allows concurrent B-mode imaging and Doppler flow analysis without cross-interference or thermal overload.