STMicroelectronics TDA7460ND

Overview

TDA7460ND from STMicroelectronics is a fully integrated car radio signal processor combining stereo FM/AM decoding, audio processing (loudness, bass/treble, volume, speaker control), noise blanking, and multipath detection in a single SO20 IC. It features I²C programmability, switched-capacitor architecture eliminating external components, 20 dB max gain, 79 dB max attenuation, and 9–15 mV output noise (20 Hz–20 kHz). Used in OEM automotive head units for analog broadcast reception.

For engineers reviewing the TDA7460ND datasheet, TDA7460ND pinout, TDA7460ND application, or TDA7460ND equivalent, key selection criteria include its integrated stereo decoder with pilot tone PLL, programmable soft mute timing (0.48–600 ms), 4-channel speaker output drive, and BICMOS low-noise/low-distortion performance optimized for vehicle EMI environments.

Technical Context

The TDA7460ND implements a dual-path architecture: one dedicated stereo decoder with PLL-based pilot tone detection, de-emphasis, field-strength control, and stereo blend; the other a fully configurable audio processor with input multiplexer (CD, cassette, AM, phone), loudness compensation (400 Hz center, 15 dB range), and 2nd-order bass/treble filters (80 Hz/17.5 kHz centers).

Its I²C interface enables real-time reconfiguration of all filter coefficients, gain steps (1 dB), mute timing constants, and input routing-without external passives-leveraging switched-capacitor design and BICMOS process for <15 mV output noise and >80 dB input separation at 1 kHz.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SO20 (Small Outline, 20-pin, 0.65 mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, rated for −40°C to +85°C ambient operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar car radio signal processor applications.

Compared with TDA7460ND, TDA7461D offers measurable improvements in noise immunity and supply flexibility but retains pin and register compatibility; STA559BW replaces analog signal chain functions with programmable digital processing-requiring architectural changes but enabling feature-rich audio enhancement.

Availability

TDA7460ND is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive head units, aftermarket radio receivers, FM/AM tuner modules, and noise-sensitive mobile radios requiring stable component supply across extended lifecycle programs.

Supply support for TDA7460ND 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, specializing in automotive, industrial, and power management ICs with broad analog and mixed-signal portfolios.

The TDA7460ND belongs to ST's automotive audio processor family, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, high-reliability analog radio systems in vehicles-prioritizing integration, EMI robustness, and programmable audio tailoring without external components.

FAQ

Is the TDA7460ND still in production despite the 'Not For New Design' notice?

Yes, STMicroelectronics continues manufacturing the TDA7460ND as a mature product, with active inventory and documented support through authorized distributors. The 'Not For New Design' designation reflects ST's recommendation to adopt newer alternatives like TDA7461D for future projects-but does not indicate imminent discontinuation or reduced quality assurance.

Can the TDA7460ND decode HD Radio or DAB signals?

No. The TDA7460ND supports only analog FM stereo (MPX), AM, and baseband audio inputs. It lacks digital demodulation blocks, OFDM processing, or packet decoding logic required for HD Radio or DAB standards. Integration with those formats requires external digital tuners feeding baseband audio into the TDA7460ND's LINE or PHONE inputs.

What is the function of the CREF pin, and what capacitor value is required?

The CREF pin connects to an external 100 nF ceramic capacitor (±10%) to set the internal switched-capacitor clock frequency, which governs filter cutoffs and processing timing. This capacitor must be placed close to the pin with short traces; deviation beyond ±10% causes measurable shift in bass/treble center frequencies and loudness response.

Does the noise blanker affect audio fidelity during normal operation?

No. The noise blanker activates only during detected impulse events (e.g., ignition spikes), muting affected samples for durations as short as 0.48 ms. Its adaptive threshold control (ATC) ensures blanking occurs exclusively on noise-preserving full dynamic range and frequency response during clean signal periods, with no audible artifacts or compression.