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Texas Instruments TLK4201EARGTT
- Part No.:
- TLK4201EARGTT
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Specialized
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
TLK4201EARGTT.pdf
- Description:
- TLK4201EA 4.25 GBPS CABLE AND PC
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Inventory:5,250
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Product details
Overview
TLK4201EARGTT from Texas Instruments is a 4.25-Gbps fixed-gain limiting equalizer IC for high-speed serial links, featuring 12 dB high-frequency boost at 2.1 GHz, 100-Ω differential input termination, and CML-compatible 50-Ω back-terminated outputs. It compensates up to 36 inches of FR4 stripline or 30 feet of CX4 cable and operates from a single 3.3-V supply across –40°C to 85°C.
For engineers reviewing the TLK4201EARGTT datasheet, TLK4201EARGTT pinout, TLK4201EARGTT application, or TLK4201EARGTT equivalent, this device supports multirate Fibre Channel, rack-to-rack interconnects, and backplane links where signal integrity restoration after channel loss is critical - especially when evaluating deterministic jitter (<20 psP-P), input sensitivity (100 mVP-P), and LOS threshold tuning (40–200 mVP-P).
Technical Context
The TLK4201EARGTT implements a fixed-equalization architecture with three gain stages and on-chip offset cancellation, enabling stable limiting operation over ±2.5 V differential input swing (100–2000 mVP-P). Its high-input dynamic range preserves low-jitter output even under severe overdrive conditions.
Loss-of-signal detection uses a fixed internal threshold referenced to the input signal's low-frequency content, with configurable assert/de-assert hysteresis (3–4.5 dB) and disable-controlled squelch. The CML output stage supports polarity inversion via OUTPOL and full shutdown via DISABLE, both with internal pull resistors (715 kΩ pull-up, 400 kΩ pull-down).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Max Data Rate | 4.25 Gbps - supports Fibre Channel 4x and InfiniBand SDR/DDR signaling without retiming. |
| High-Frequency Boost | 12 dB at 2.1 GHz - restores high-frequency loss in FR4 traces up to 36 inches or CX4 cables up to 30 ft. |
| Differential Input Range | ±2.5 V - accommodates wide-swing legacy sources and ensures robust operation with 2000 mVP-P overload. |
| Input Termination | 100 Ω differential - eliminates need for external termination resistors on DIN+/DIN–. |
| CML Output Drive | 780 mVP-P typical swing into 50 Ω to VCC - compatible with standard CML receivers and AC-coupled interfaces. |
| LOS Threshold Range | 40–200 mVP-P - adjustable via interconnect length and data pattern; enables reliable link monitoring in varying channel conditions. |
| Supply Current | 38 mA typical at 3.3 V - ultralow power for high-density backplane applications. |
Pinout & Package
The TLK4201EARGTT is housed in a 3-mm × 3-mm, 16-pin VQFN package (RGT drawing) with exposed thermal pad (EP), 0.5-mm pitch, and JEDEC Level-2 moisture sensitivity rating. The package requires soldering the EP to PCB ground for thermal and mechanical stability.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VCC (1, 4, 12) | Power supply | Three dedicated 3.3-V supply pins reduce IR drop and improve PSRR in high-speed operation. |
| DIN+, DIN− (2, 3) | Differential data input | 100-Ω on-chip differential termination simplifies layout and eliminates external resistors. |
| LOSDIS (5) | CMOS input | Disables LOS detection when high; internal 825-kΩ pulldown enables default-enable behavior. |
| DISABLE (6) | CMOS input | Shuts down CML output stage when high; 400-kΩ pulldown ensures safe default state. |
| LOS (7) | CMOS output | Open-drain–compatible flag indicating signal loss; used for squelch by connecting to DISABLE. |
| GND (8, 16) | Ground reference | Dual ground pins minimize ground bounce and support clean return path for high-speed signals. |
| OUTPOL (9) | CMOS input | Selects output polarity (normal/inverted); 715-kΩ internal pullup sets default to non-inverted mode. |
| DOUT+, DOUT− (10, 11) | CML differential output | 50-Ω on-chip back-termination to VCC enables direct connection to AC-coupled CML receivers. |
| NC (13) | No connect | Unbonded pin; must be left floating or grounded per layout best practices. |
| COC1, COC2 (14, 15) | Analog filter terminals | Connect external capacitor to extend low-frequency cutoff below 10 kHz; shorting disables offset cancellation. |
| EP | Exposed thermal pad | Must be soldered to solid PCB ground plane for thermal dissipation and signal integrity. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Fixed 12-dB equalization at 2.1 GHz | Restores frequency-dependent loss in FR4 and CX4 channels without adaptive overhead or training sequences. |
| On-chip 100-Ω differential input termination | Eliminates two external resistors and associated parasitics, reducing BOM count and layout complexity. |
| CML outputs with 50-Ω back-termination to VCC | Enables direct AC-coupling to downstream receivers without external biasing or termination networks. |
| Configurable LOS detection with hysteresis | Prevents false triggering during marginal signal conditions; hysteresis (3–4.5 dB) stabilizes link status reporting. |
| Offset cancellation with external filter option | Compensates DC offsets from long interconnects; optional external capacitor extends low-frequency response below 10 kHz. |
| Ultralow 38-mA supply current at 4.25 Gbps | Reduces thermal load and power delivery requirements in dense backplane or modular chassis designs. |
Applications
| Fibre Channel Systems | Backplane Interconnect |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Receiving 4.25-Gbps FC-4x serial data over 36-inch FR4 striplines in storage array controllers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-gain limiting equalizer restoring high-frequency content lost in PCB trace attenuation. Use Value: Enables reliable BER <10−12 operation with 100 mVP-P input swing and deterministic jitter <20 psP-P. |
Use Scenario: Signal conditioning between line cards in telecom shelf backplanes using 7-mil FR4 striplines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed analog equalizer placed at receiver end to compensate channel insertion loss. Use Value: Supports multirate operation (1.0625/2.125/4.25 Gbps) without reconfiguration; maintains timing margin across temperature. |
| Rack-to-Rack Interconnect | High-Speed Data Systems |
|
Use Scenario: Extending 4.25-Gbps links up to 30 feet over CX4 copper cables between server racks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Cable equalizer with programmable squelch to suppress noise during link idle periods. Use Value: LOS output drives DISABLE pin to mute outputs automatically, eliminating spurious switching noise. |
Use Scenario: Front-end signal recovery in test equipment capturing PRBS231–1 patterns at 4.25 Gbps. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-jitter, high-dynamic-range equalizer preserving eye opening for accurate sampling. Use Value: 2000 mVP-P input overload tolerance prevents clipping from burst-mode or mismatched source swings. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed equalizer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3801ETM+ | 2.5-Gbps max rate; 10.5-dB boost at 1.25 GHz; requires dual 3.3-V supplies; no integrated LOS. | Targeted at lower-speed SONET/SDH systems; lacks squelch integration and multirate flexibility. | Choose only if operating strictly ≤2.5 Gbps and external LOS logic is acceptable. |
| DS100BR111SQ/NOPB | 4.25-Gbps retimer (not equalizer); includes CDR, auto-adaptation, and 1.8-V core; higher power (95 mA). | Suitable for degraded channels requiring clock recovery; adds latency (~300 ps) and complexity. | Select when channel loss exceeds 12 dB or jitter accumulation mandates CDR functionality. |
Compared with MAX3801ETM+ and DS100BR111SQ/NOPB, the TLK4201EARGTT delivers fixed, low-latency equalization at minimal power and BOM cost - ideal for deterministic, low-jitter links where channel loss is known and stable, and where CDR overhead is unnecessary.
Availability
TLK4201EARGTT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Fibre Channel systems, backplane interconnects, and rack-to-rack communication links requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant packaging.
Supply support for TLK4201EARGTT 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-speed interface solutions, with decades of expertise in signal integrity and communications ICs.
The TLK4201EARGTT belongs to TI's high-speed equalizer product line, designed specifically for restoring degraded NRZ serial signals in FR4 PCBs and copper cables - targeting storage, telecom, and data center infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the maximum supported data rate for TLK4201EARGTT?
The TLK4201EARGTT supports a maximum data rate of 4.25 Gbps, validated with K28.5 and PRBS231–1 patterns. It operates reliably at lower multirate speeds including 1.0625 Gbps and 2.125 Gbps without configuration changes, making it suitable for mixed-rate Fibre Channel and InfiniBand applications.
Does TLK4201EARGTT require external termination resistors on its differential inputs?
No. The TLK4201EARGTT integrates a precise 100-Ω differential termination between DIN+ and DIN−, eliminating the need for external resistors. This reduces board space, parasitic effects, and design complexity while ensuring optimal impedance matching for common high-speed interconnects.
How does the LOS function work in TLK4201EARGTT, and can it be disabled?
The TLK4201EARGTT features a fixed-threshold loss-of-signal detector monitoring low-frequency input content. It asserts LOS when input amplitude falls below 40–200 mVP-P, depending on interconnect and pattern. Pulling LOSDIS high disables the circuit and forces LOS low - useful when external monitoring is preferred.
What package type and mounting requirements apply to TLK4201EARGTT?
The TLK4201EARGTT uses a 3-mm × 3-mm, 16-pin VQFN package (RGT drawing) with an exposed thermal pad (EP). The EP must be soldered to a PCB ground plane for thermal performance and signal integrity. The device is JEDEC Level-2 compliant (260°C peak reflow) and RoHS-compliant with NiPdAu finish.
Can TLK4201EARGTT drive standard CML receivers directly?
Yes. The TLK4201EARGTT provides CML-compatible differential outputs (DOUT+/DOUT−) with 50-Ω on-chip back-termination to VCC, enabling direct AC-coupling to industry-standard CML receivers. No external biasing or termination networks are required, simplifying interface design and improving signal fidelity.
TLK4201EARGTT Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- *
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Applications:
- -
- Interface:
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- Voltage - Supply:
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- Supplier Device Package:
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TLK4201EARGTT FAQ
1.How can I place an order for TLK4201EARGTT through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for TLK4201EARGTT on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for TLK4201EARGTT reliable?
The price and inventory of TLK4201EARGTT are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for TLK4201EARGTT is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for TLK4201EARGTT?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for TLK4201EARGTT transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for TLK4201EARGTT?
TLK4201EARGTT orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your TLK4201EARGTT order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for TLK4201EARGTT?
For technical support, including TLK4201EARGTT datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your TLK4201EARGTT requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that TLK4201EARGTT is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All TLK4201EARGTT products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that TLK4201EARGTT meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of TLK4201EARGTT?
All TLK4201EARGTT units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with TLK4201EARGTT, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The TLK4201EARGTT part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for TLK4201EARGTT:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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