Texas Instruments THS3217IRGVR

Overview

THS3217IRGVR from Texas Instruments is a DC-to-800-MHz, two-stage differential-to-single-ended DAC output amplifier with buffered differential inputs, fixed 2-V/V D2S gain, externally configurable output stage (5-V/V total gain typical), 5000 V/µs slew rate, and integrated SPDT input switch. It drives 5-VPP into 100 Ω with –60 dBc HD2 at 20 MHz and supports ±4 V to ±7.9 V split or 8 V to 15.8 V single supply - used in high-fidelity arbitrary waveform generator output stages.

For engineers reviewing the THS3217IRGVR datasheet, THS3217IRGVR pinout, THS3217IRGVR application, or THS3217IRGVR equivalent, key selection criteria include full-power bandwidth at 5-VPP output, harmonic distortion performance into reactive loads, internal midscale reference buffer capability, and dual-stage gain configurability for DAC interface optimization.

Technical Context

The THS3217IRGVR implements a cascaded architecture: a current-feedback input stage (D2S) converts differential DAC current outputs to low-impedance single-ended voltage with fixed 2-V/V gain and 800-MHz small-signal bandwidth; an independent current-feedback output power stage (OPS) provides externally set gain (e.g., 2.5× via 249-Ω RF / 162-Ω RG) and delivers 500-MHz large-signal bandwidth at 5-VPP.

Its internal 2×1 SPDT switch selects between D2S output (pin 6) or external signal at VIN+ (pin 9) for the OPS noninverting input; the DISABLE pin (10) enables hardware shutdown of the OPS; and the VMID buffer (pins 1, 15) supplies low-impedance midscale bias for single-supply AC-coupled operation up to 15.8 V.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

VQFN-16 package (RGV) with 4.0 mm × 4.0 mm body and exposed thermal pad soldered to GND. Pin 1 (VMID_IN) is top-left when marking dot is oriented top-left.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar differential-to-single-ended amplifier applications.

Compared with THS3217IRGVR, THS3215IRGVR trades bandwidth and distortion for lower power, while LMH5401RTVT offers higher raw bandwidth but lacks integrated DAC interface features like buffered differential inputs and internal SPDT switching - making THS3217IRGVR uniquely suited for precision DAC output reconstruction.

Availability

THS3217IRGVR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for digital-to-analog converter output amplification, arbitrary waveform generator output stages, and predriver applications requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for THS3217IRGVR 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 specializing in analog, embedded processing, and high-performance signal-chain solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The THS3217IRGVR belongs to TI's high-speed amplifier portfolio, designed specifically to solve DAC interface challenges - combining differential input buffering, flexible gain staging, and low-distortion wideband output drive in a single IC.

FAQ

What is the function of the PATHSEL pin on the THS3217IRGVR?

The PATHSEL pin (pin 4) controls an internal SPDT switch that selects the signal source for the output power stage's noninverting input. When low (≤0.7 V), it routes the internal D2S output (pin 6); when high (≥0.9 V), it routes the external VIN+ signal (pin 9). This allows dynamic reconfiguration between internal and external signal paths without external switches - a key feature for multi-source test equipment using THS3217IRGVR.

Can the THS3217IRGVR operate from a single 12-V supply?

Yes, the THS3217IRGVR supports single-supply operation from 8 V to 15.8 V. With a 12-V rail, the internal VMID buffer (pins 1, 15) provides a stable mid-supply bias point, enabling AC-coupled configurations. The D2S stage maintains full functionality with VIC = 0.25 V, and the OPS delivers 5-VPP into 100 Ω - verified in TI's SBOS766B datasheet under Recommended Operating Conditions for THS3217IRGVR.

What gain-setting resistors are recommended for 5-V/V total gain with the THS3217IRGVR?

For 5-V/V total gain (2× D2S × 2.5× OPS), TI specifies 249-Ω RF and 162-Ω RG in the THS3217IRGVR datasheet (Section 7.6). These values account for the internal 18.5-kΩ feedback resistor in parallel with RF, yielding a precise 2.5× OPS gain. Using 0.1% tolerance resistors ensures gain accuracy within ±0.5%, critical for calibrated DAC output systems using THS3217IRGVR.

How does the DISABLE pin affect power consumption of the THS3217IRGVR?

The DISABLE pin (pin 10) reduces THS3217IRGVR's total supply current from 54 mA (active) to 36 mA (OPS disabled) - a 18-mA savings - by shutting down the output power stage only. The D2S stage and VMID buffer remain operational, allowing continued signal monitoring or bias generation while minimizing power during idle periods. This behavior is characterized in Section 7.6 of the THS3217IRGVR datasheet.

Is the THS3217IRGVR suitable for driving 50-Ω transmission lines directly?

Yes, the THS3217IRGVR delivers 5-VPP into 100 Ω with –60 dBc HD2 at 20 MHz, and its 0.05-Ω DC output impedance and 5000 V/µs slew rate support clean 50-Ω driving when configured with appropriate series termination. For optimal 50-Ω matching, place a 50-Ω series resistor at VOUT (pin 11) - a standard practice validated in TI's THS3217IRGVR evaluation board layouts and application notes.