STMicroelectronics TDA7496L

Overview

TDA7496L from STMicroelectronics is a stereo Class AB audio power amplifier delivering 2W+2W into 8Ω loads at 10% THD with 14V supply, featuring DC-coupled outputs, linear volume control, and integrated ST-BY/MUTE functions. It operates from a single 10–15V supply, includes thermal and short-circuit protection, and targets high-fidelity TV and monitor audio stages.

For engineers reviewing the TDA7496L datasheet, TDA7496L pinout, TDA7496L application, or TDA7496L equivalent, key selection considerations include its fixed 30dB closed-loop gain, 500–800µV output noise (max volume), mute attenuation ≥50dB, thermal shutdown at 160°C, and Powerdip (14+3+3) package compatibility with board-level heatsinking.

Technical Context

The TDA7496L integrates dual independent amplifier channels with shared biasing and protection circuitry. Its internal architecture includes dedicated volume op-amps driving variable-output buffers (VAROUT_L/R), SVR-referenced DC-coupled output stages, and logic-controlled MUTE/STBY inputs with defined voltage thresholds (1.5V/3.5V).

It implements soft clipping to limit peak distortion, eliminates Boucherot cells and external standby RC networks, and supports pop-noise reduction via controlled turn-on/off sequencing tied to SVR pin voltage (>2.5V). No external bootstrap or coupling capacitors are required at the outputs.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: Powerdip (14+3+3) - 20-pin through-hole package with three isolated ground pins (pins 1,2,3,13,18,19,20), optimized for thermal conduction via PCB copper area (R_{th j-amb} = 50°C/W unheatsinked).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar stereo Class AB audio amplifier applications.

Compared with TDA7492 and TPA3110D2, the TDA7496L offers lower component count, zero-output-capacitor operation, and integrated volume control-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-limited TV and monitor audio where 2W/channel suffices.

Availability

TDA7496L is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for TV audio subsystems, monitor speaker drivers, set-top box audio outputs, and audio docking stations requiring stable component supply and long-term design continuity.

Supply support for TDA7496L 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 analog, power, microcontrollers, and automotive ICs with manufacturing and R&D across Europe, Asia, and the Americas.

The TDA7496L belongs to ST's legacy audio power amplifier product line, engineered specifically for cost-effective, high-fidelity stereo amplification in consumer display electronics with minimal external components.

FAQ

What is the recommended minimum copper area for thermal management?

The datasheet specifies R_{th j-amb} = 50°C/W with no heatsink; using a 50 cm² copper pour (35 µm thick) reduces thermal resistance to ~35°C/W. Layout Figure 1B shows a 1.25:1 scale PCB pattern optimized for this - avoid splitting ground planes under the device body to maintain thermal conduction paths.

Can the TDA7496L drive 4Ω speakers?

No - the device is rated only for 8Ω loads per channel. Driving 4Ω would exceed safe operating area limits, triggering thermal shutdown or causing premature failure due to doubled current demand and increased power dissipation beyond the 6W total rating.

How does the SVR pin function during power sequencing?

The SVR pin serves as a reference for internal DC offset cancellation and pop-noise suppression. During turn-on, MUTE must remain active until SVR reaches >2.5V; during turn-off, MUTE must be asserted before SVR drops below 2.5V - ensuring zero-crossing transitions and eliminating audible transients.

Is there a recommended value for the volume control potentiometer?

Yes - the datasheet specifies a 50kΩ logarithmic potentiometer (P1 in Figure 1A). Using linear taper or values outside 40–60kΩ degrades volume linearity and may cause abrupt attenuation steps or reduced dynamic range near minimum setting.