NXP Semiconductors TDA18211HD/C2,551

Overview

TDA18211HD/C2,551 from NXP Semiconductors is a silicon-based DVB-T tuner IC for digital terrestrial TV reception. It integrates RF tracking filters, IF selectivity (6/7/8 MHz), low-IF output, and a single 16 MHz crystal oscillator - delivering 5.5 dB typical noise figure, −82 dBm digital sensitivity, and 780 mW power dissipation in STB applications.

For engineers reviewing the TDA18211HD/C2,551 datasheet, TDA18211HD/C2,551 pinout, TDA18211HD/C2,551 application, or TDA18211HD/C2,551 equivalent, key selection considerations include dual-tuner synchronization via MASTERSYNC/FREEZE, crystal oscillator buffer output (XTOUTP/XTOUTN), RF loop-through (LT) and slave-tuner output (STO), and I²C-compatible 3.3 V/5 V interface support.

Technical Context

The TDA18211HD/C2,551 implements a direct-conversion architecture with integrated polyphase RF and IF filters, image-rejection mixer, and dual synthesizers (main LO + calibration PLL). Its RF front end includes alignment-free AGC with RF and IF gain control paths, while the digital calibration engine supports RFCAL and IRCAL modes using internal tone generation and detector feedback.

It operates in three standby modes - including device-off mode - with configurable XTOUT_MS pin selection for master/slave dual-tuner operation. The chip uses a single 16 MHz crystal (e.g., NDK NX5032) and provides differential 16 MHz clock outputs (XTOUTP/XTOUTN) to synchronize external channel decoders without requiring additional timing components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: HLQFN64R - plastic thermal-enhanced low-profile quad flat package, 9 × 9 × 1.6 mm body, 64-terminal no-lead construction (SOT903-1).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar DVB-T tuner applications.

Compared with MAX2160ETJ+T and SI2151-A10-GM, the TDA18211HD/C2,551 delivers lower power (780 mW), native dual-tuner synchronization, and full DVB-T optimization - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained STBs requiring proven interoperability with TDA10048HN decoders.

Availability

TDA18211HD/C2,551 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DVB-T set-top boxes, dual-tuner DVR systems, and compact digital TV receivers requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for TDA18211HD/C2,551 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

NXP Semiconductors is a global semiconductor leader focused on secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics markets.

The TDA18211HD product line was engineered specifically for digital terrestrial TV reception, emphasizing integration density, thermal efficiency, and seamless interoperability with NXP's channel decoder portfolio (e.g., TDA10048HN).

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TDA18211HD/C2,551 in a DVB-T system?

The TDA18211HD/C2,551 serves as a fully integrated silicon tuner IC that receives and downconverts terrestrial broadcast RF signals (174–864 MHz) to a low-IF output for demodulation. It replaces traditional can tuners by integrating RF filtering, mixing, IF filtering, and clock generation - all within a single HLQFN64R package. Its design eliminates external SAW filters and manual alignment, enabling compact, cost-effective DVB-T receiver implementations.

Does the TDA18211HD/C2,551 require an external crystal, and what are the supported types?

Yes, the TDA18211HD/C2,551 requires a single 16 MHz fundamental-mode crystal connected to XTALP and XTALN pins. Validated crystals include NDK NX5032, Siward SX-5032, TXC 9C series, and Chungho Elcom HC49/S profile units rated for ≥100 µW drive level. An external 5.6 pF shunt capacitor is also required per the reference schematic. In dual-tuner configurations, only the master unit connects the crystal; slaves receive clock via XTOUTP/XTOUTN.

How does the TDA18211HD/C2,551 support dual-tuner operation in DVR applications?

The TDA18211HD/C2,551 supports dual-tuner operation through dedicated pins: MASTERSYNC (19), FREEZE (28), and STO (15). One device is configured as master (XTOUT_MS = 0 V), driving the crystal and broadcasting clock and sync signals; the second is set as slave (XTOUT_MS = 0.4–0.6 VCC), receiving RF via STO and clock via XTALP/XTALN. This architecture ensures phase-coherent tuning and coordinated calibration without external timing circuitry.

What are the power supply requirements and thermal management features of the TDA18211HD/C2,551?

The TDA18211HD/C2,551 operates from a single 3.3 V supply and dissipates 780 mW typical power. It integrates a die-temperature sensor accessible via I²C register TM_D[3:0], with selectable 60–90 °C or 92–122 °C measurement ranges. Thermal data is used for real-time derating and system-level thermal management. The HLQFN64R package includes an exposed die pad for enhanced PCB heat sinking, critical for sustained operation in enclosed STB chassis.

Can the TDA18211HD/C2,551 be used with non-NXP channel decoders?

Yes, the TDA18211HD/C2,551 is compatible with any low-IF demodulator accepting 2 V (p-p) differential IF input and supporting 6/7/8 MHz channel bandwidths. While optimized for NXP's TDA10048HN, its IFOUTP/IFOUTN outputs meet standard AC-coupled LVDS-like levels. Clock synchronization via XTOUTP/XTOUTN is optional - systems may use independent oscillators if timing tolerance permits. I²C interface remains fully functional regardless of decoder vendor.