Texas Instruments TL026CPG4

Overview

TL026CPG4 from Texas Instruments is a monolithic differential high-frequency amplifier with integrated AGC control, designed for IF/RF signal conditioning in analog receiver chains. It delivers 38 dB typical peak gain, 50 MHz −3 dB bandwidth, and 50 dB typical AGC range while maintaining low harmonic distortion and stable gain across temperature (0°C to 70°C). Its emitter-follower outputs drive capacitive loads in TV, radio, and magnetic storage AGC circuits.

For engineers reviewing the TL026CPG4 datasheet, TL026CPG4 pinout, TL026CPG4 application, or TL026CPG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include differential voltage amplification (55–115 V/V), AGC-controlled gain attenuation (±180 mV ΔVAGC–Vref), common-mode output stability (±300 mV shift), input resistance (8–30 kΩ), and supply current (22–30 mA) under ±6 V operation.

Technical Context

The TL026CPG4 implements a two-stage current-source-biased architecture with internal feedback for wide bandwidth and low phase distortion. Its differential inputs and outputs are decoupled from AGC voltage variations, enabling stable gain control without compromising input/output impedance.

Gain modulation occurs via summation-based variable attenuation at the AGC pin, referenced to the internally generated 1.3–1.5 V REF OUT voltage. Emitter-follower output stages provide low 20 Ω output resistance and support direct driving of 50 Ω or 2 kΩ loads without external compensation.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TL026CPG4 is packaged in an 8-pin PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) with 0.3-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is located at the left end of the top row when viewed from the top with the notch or dot oriented upward.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar differential high-frequency amplifier applications.

Compared with NE592N and uA733CN, TL026CPG4 uniquely integrates a precision REF OUT pin and true differential I/O, enabling simpler, more stable AGC loop design in high-fidelity IF chains-especially where board space and thermal management constrain discrete bias networks.

Availability

TL026CPG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for TV IF amplifiers, FM radio receivers, magnetic tape playback systems, and analog video signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across long-lifecycle consumer electronics programs.

Supply support for TL026CPG4 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company founded in 1930, specializing in analog ICs, embedded processors, and high-reliability components for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The TL026C family was developed in the 1980s as a monolithic replacement for discrete IF amplifier modules, targeting high-fidelity analog signal chains in broadcast and data storage equipment where AGC stability and wide bandwidth were critical.

FAQ

What is the function of the REF OUT pin on the TL026CPG4?

The REF OUT pin on the TL026CPG4 provides a stable 1.3–1.5 V DC reference voltage used to bias the AGC input. This internal reference ensures thermal tracking between VAGC and device characteristics, allowing the AGC control voltage (VAGC – Vref) to vary differentially around a known center point. Using REF OUT eliminates the need for an external precision reference, simplifying AGC loop design in TL026CPG4-based circuits.

Can the TL026CPG4 operate with a single supply?

No, the TL026CPG4 requires dual symmetric supplies (e.g., ±6 V) to function correctly. Its architecture relies on bipolar current-source biasing and differential input/output stages that depend on both positive and negative rails. Attempting single-supply operation will result in clipped output, loss of common-mode range, and failure to achieve specified gain or AGC performance per the SLFS007A datasheet.

What is the maximum input signal level before saturation occurs in the TL026CPG4?

A peak input voltage exceeding 200 mV begins to saturate the input stages of the TL026CPG4, leading to distortion even under AGC control. This limit is specified in the "Considerations for the use of the TL026C" section of the datasheet. For reliable linear operation, differential input signals should remain below ±141 mV (100 mV RMS), especially in high-gain configurations where AGC may not fully compensate for transient overloads.

How does the TL026CPG4 differ from the TL026CD (SOIC version)?

The TL026CPG4 and TL026CD share identical electrical specifications, pinout, and functional behavior-the only difference is package type. TL026CPG4 uses an 8-pin PDIP package with through-hole leads, while TL026CD uses an 8-pin SOIC surface-mount package. Both operate from 0°C to 70°C and support the same AGC, gain, and bandwidth performance. The G4 suffix denotes TI's RoHS-compliant lead finish (NiPdAu) on the PDIP variant.

Is the TL026CPG4 still in active production?

Yes, the TL026CPG4 is listed as Active in Texas Instruments' official packaging addendum, with status "Production" and material type "Active". It remains available in PDIP (P) package with 50-unit tube packaging, RoHS-compliant NiPdAu lead finish, and MSL exemption (non-moisture-sensitive). TI continues to support this part for legacy analog system maintenance and long-lifecycle industrial designs.