NXP Semiconductors TDA18254AHN/C1,557

Overview

TDA18254AHN/C1,557 from NXP Semiconductors is a cable silicon tuner IC engineered for multi-tuner Set Top Boxes supporting PVR, VOD, and in-home video distribution. It delivers 51–1002 MHz RF frequency coverage, 7.5 dB typical noise figure, −85 dBc/Hz phase noise at 10 kHz offset, 0.91 W power dissipation, and integrated IF selectivity eliminating external SAW filters - enabling high-performance, low-BOM-cost cable TV reception.

For engineers reviewing the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 datasheet, TDA18254AHN/C1,557 pinout, TDA18254AHN/C1,557 application, or TDA18254AHN/C1,557 equivalent, key selection criteria include multistandard cable demodulation support with TDA10024HN, RF loop-through capability, I²C-accessible RSSI and die temperature, and HVQFN48 thermal-enhanced packaging for STB thermal management.

Technical Context

The TDA18254AHN/C1,557 implements a fully integrated RF-to-IF signal chain with on-chip synthesizer, crystal oscillator buffer (16 MHz), and three independent RF outputs for slave tuner driving plus one low-IF output. Its architecture eliminates external SAW filters and LNAs while maintaining identical performance across master and slave tuner paths.

It supports alignment-free operation via integrated RF tracking filters and wideband AGC, operates from a single 3.3 V supply, and provides I²C-bus interface for microcontroller control, RSSI readout, and on-die temperature monitoring - all within JEDEC Class IV ESD-rated packaging.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

HVQFN48 plastic thermal-enhanced very thin quad flat package; 48 terminals; body 7 × 7 × 0.85 mm (SOT619-1). Exposed thermal pad improves PCB heat transfer in high-density STB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar cable tuner applications.

Compared with MAX3542ETJ+T and SI2151-A10-GM, the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 uniquely delivers four-tuner functionality in one device with integrated IF selectivity and RF loop-through - reducing total system BOM cost and PCB area while maintaining identical performance across master/slave paths.

Availability

TDA18254AHN/C1,557 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for cable Set Top Boxes, PVR platforms, and in-home video distribution systems requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle support, and consistent electrical performance across production batches.

Supply support for TDA18254AHN/C1,557 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 company headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, specializing in secure connectivity solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer electronics.

The TDA18254AHN/C1,557 belongs to NXP's Silicon Tuner product line, designed specifically to replace legacy can-based tuners in digital cable STBs with highly integrated, low-power, multistandard RF receivers.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 in a cable Set Top Box?

The TDA18254AHN/C1,557 serves as a high-integration cable silicon tuner IC that receives and processes RF signals from 51 MHz to 1002 MHz, delivering a low-IF output to the TDA10024HN demodulator while simultaneously providing three RF outputs to drive slave tuners. Its role enables multi-stream PVR functionality without external SAW filters or LNAs, directly reducing system BOM and layout complexity in modern STBs.

Does the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 require an external crystal oscillator?

No, the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 integrates a complete crystal oscillator circuit with a 16 MHz output buffer. It accepts a standard 16 MHz fundamental-mode crystal via XTAL_P/XTAL_N pins and provides synchronized clocking for multi-tuner systems - eliminating external oscillator components and enabling single-crystal architectures for cost and timing stability benefits.

How does the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 support multi-tuner PVR applications?

The TDA18254AHN/C1,557 supports multi-tuner PVR through its unique 1× low-IF output plus 3× RF monitor outputs (MTO1–MTO3), allowing one device to serve as both master tuner and RF source for three slave tuners. This architecture avoids signal splitting losses and maintains matched gain/noise performance across all paths - essential for simultaneous watch-and-record functionality in premium STBs.

What thermal package does the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 use, and why is it important?

The TDA18254AHN/C1,557 uses the HVQFN48 (SOT619-1) thermal-enhanced package - 7 × 7 × 0.85 mm with exposed thermal pad. This package enables efficient heat transfer to the PCB ground plane, critical for managing 0.91 W power dissipation in densely packed STB chassis where airflow is limited and multiple tuners operate concurrently.

Can the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 replace traditional can-type tuners in existing STB designs?

Yes, the TDA18254AHN/C1,557 is designed as a drop-in replacement for legacy can-based cable tuners in STB platforms. Its HVQFN48 footprint, 3.3 V supply, and I²C interface align with modern PCB constraints, while its integrated IF selectivity and RF tracking filters eliminate the need for external SAW filters and LNAs - simplifying redesign and improving thermal performance over older solutions.