Texas Instruments TC237

Overview

TC237B from Texas Instruments is a frame-transfer charge-coupled device (CCD) image sensor optimized for NTSC black-and-white video applications, featuring 680(H) × 500(V) pixel resolution, 7.4-µm square pixels, 340,000 active pixels per field, and continuous electronic exposure control from 1/60 s to 1/50,000 s. It delivers high blue response, low dark current (0.05 nA/cm² at 21°C), and 64 dB dynamic range with correlated double sampling.

For engineers reviewing the TC237B datasheet, TC237B pinout, TC237B application, or TC237B equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, multimode readout timing (interlaced, progressive, dual-register), antiblooming implementation via advanced lateral overflow drain, and real-world interface guidance for video signal chain design in industrial and legacy broadcast systems.

Technical Context

The TC237B implements a two-phase image-sensing area and single-phase storage area using TI's proprietary Advanced Virtual-Phase (AVP) technology, enabling high photoresponse uniformity and single-phase clocking simplicity. Its functional blocks include optical-black referenced dark lines, lateral overflow drain for blooming control, and dual-output low-noise source-follower amplifiers with 13 µV/e charge conversion factor.

Operation supports four distinct readout modes-interlaced scan (500/501-line fields), progressive scan (single/dual serial register), line summing, and smear subtraction-with precise timing governed by IAG1/IAG2, SAG, SRG, RST, and ODB control signals. Clearing uses a 10-V pulse ≥1 µs on ODB, and transfer efficiency exceeds 0.99995.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Dual-in-line (DIP) ceramic package with glass window and 12-lead frame; leads spaced 1.78 mm center-to-center; hermetically sealed with epoxy adhesive for optical stability and environmental protection.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar CCD image sensor applications.

Compared with KAI-0340 and TC210, the TC237B uniquely combines NTSC-native interlaced timing, dual analog outputs, frame-transfer architecture with smear suppression, and ceramic-glass DIP packaging-making it irreplaceable for analog video systems demanding legacy compatibility and high analog fidelity.

Availability

TC237B is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial machine vision, legacy NTSC surveillance, scientific imaging systems, medical endoscopy, and analog video equipment requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle deployments.

Supply support for TC237B 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 leader founded in 1930, specializing in analog, embedded processing, and imaging technologies with broad industrial and automotive reach.

The TC237B belongs to TI's legacy CCD image sensor product line, designed specifically for high-reliability monochrome video capture in analog NTSC systems where solid-state reliability, absence of image burn-in, and precise electronic shutter control are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the TC237B?

The TC237B is characterized for operation from –10°C to +45°C ambient temperature. Its ceramic DIP package and internal thermal design ensure stable dark current (0.05 nA/cm² at 21°C) and consistent charge transfer efficiency across this range. Operation outside these limits may degrade antiblooming performance and increase smear.

Does the TC237B support progressive-scan readout?

Yes, the TC237B supports progressive-scan readout using either one or both serial registers. Dual-register mode enables high-speed readout at 500 cycles per frame, while single-register mode reduces timing complexity. Both modes retain full 680 × 500 resolution and use identical IAG/SAG/SRG timing sequences defined in Figures 4 and 5 of the SOCS063 datasheet.

How is antiblooming implemented in the TC237B?

The TC237B implements antiblooming via an advanced lateral overflow drain structure controlled by the ODB pin. Applying a DC bias (14.5–15.5 V) to ODB sets the blooming threshold; superimposing a ≥1 µs, 10-V pulse clears accumulated charge before integration. This architecture allows real-time adjustment of well capacity versus blooming immunity without hardware changes.

What is the significance of the dual OUT1/OUT2 outputs on the TC237B?

The TC237B provides two independent analog video outputs (OUT1 and OUT2) with matched gain, offset, and noise characteristics. This enables true differential signaling for improved noise rejection, simultaneous capture by dual digitizers, or redundancy in mission-critical imaging. Both outputs share identical 300–500 Ω output impedance and respond identically to all timing and bias conditions.

Can the TC237B be used without correlated double sampling (CDS)?

Yes, the TC237B functions without CDS, but dynamic range drops from 64 dB to 58–59 dB and amplifier noise increases from 15–21 electrons to 30–42 electrons. The sensor's internal reset gate (RST) and timing diagram (Figure 7) support external CDS implementation using sample-and-hold and pixel clamp signals-essential for achieving specified low-noise performance.