Texas Instruments TLV3801DSGT

Overview

TLV3801DSGT from Texas Instruments is a single-channel, 225-ps propagation delay high-speed comparator with LVDS differential outputs, designed for precision timing-critical detection in optical sensing and test equipment. It operates from 2.7 V to 5.25 V single supply (VEE = GND), delivers ±350 mV LVDS swing, features 2 mV internal hysteresis, and supports 240 ps minimum input pulse width detection in an 8-pin WSON (2.00 mm × 2.00 mm) package.

For engineers reviewing the TLV3801DSGT datasheet, TLV3801DSGT pinout, TLV3801DSGT application, or TLV3801DSGT equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, functional context for LIDAR/ToF signal conditioning, package-level layout guidance, and validated alternative options for high-speed comparator selection in space-constrained, low-jitter systems.

Technical Context

The TLV3801DSGT implements a fully differential front-end with split input/output ground reference: inputs accept common-mode voltages from VEE + 1.5 V to VCC, while LVDS outputs are referenced to GND and require 100-Ω termination. Its architecture minimizes overdrive dispersion (5 ps) and channel-to-channel skew (not applicable-single channel), enabling deterministic timing at 3 GHz toggle frequency and sub-250 ps pulse capture.

Unlike the TLV3811(C) family, the TLV3801DSGT supports both single-supply (VEE = GND) and split-supply (VEE < GND) operation, with independent VEE and VCC pins allowing input stage biasing separate from LVDS output rail. This enables optimized noise isolation in mixed-supply optical receiver chains where photodiode amplifiers operate at negative rails.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

TLV3801DSGT is housed in an 8-pin WSON package (2.00 mm × 2.00 mm, 0.5 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad connected to VEE. The package supports fine-pitch PCB layout and efficient heat dissipation in high-density optical sensor modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed comparator applications.

Compared with TLV3801DSGT, TLV3811YFPR offers smaller size and lower power but sacrifices VEE-referenced input flexibility, while LMH7322MA/NOPB provides higher drive capability at the cost of significantly slower timing and incompatible output signaling-making TLV3801DSGT optimal for new LVDS-based, space-constrained, sub-nanosecond timing designs.

Availability

TLV3801DSGT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for LIDAR modules, time-of-flight sensor subsystems, and high-speed oscilloscope trigger circuits requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance across temperature, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for TLV3801DSGT 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 and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in high-speed signal chain components.

The TLV3801DSGT belongs to TI's precision high-speed comparator product line, engineered specifically for optical sensing, test instrumentation, and real-time measurement systems demanding sub-250 ps timing fidelity and LVDS interoperability.

FAQ

What is the recommended power supply configuration for TLV3801DSGT in single-supply operation?

For single-supply operation, connect VEE to GND and apply 2.7 V to 5.25 V between VCC and GND. The input common-mode range then spans from GND + 1.5 V to VCC, and the LVDS outputs reference GND directly. This configuration is validated for use with photodiode amplifiers like the OPA858 in optical receiver circuits, ensuring full dynamic range and stable LVDS output common-mode voltage at ~1.25 V.

Does TLV3801DSGT support split-supply operation, and how does it affect input referencing?

Yes, TLV3801DSGT supports split-supply operation with VEE < GND (e.g., –2.5 V) and VCC = +2.5 V, yielding a 5-V total supply. In this mode, inputs are referenced to VEE, extending the usable common-mode range downward, while LVDS outputs remain GND-referenced. This decoupling allows the input stage to handle negative-going signals from transimpedance amplifiers without compromising LVDS output integrity - a key advantage over single-rail comparators like TLV3811C.

What is the function of the thermal pad on the TLV3801DSGT WSON package?

The exposed thermal pad on the TLV3801DSGT is internally connected to VEE and serves dual purposes: thermal dissipation and electrical grounding. It must be soldered to a dedicated PCB copper pour tied to the VEE net. Proper thermal pad connection reduces junction-to-board thermal resistance to 36.2°C/W, preventing thermal derating of propagation delay and maintaining 225-ps performance across –40°C to +125°C ambient operation.

Can TLV3801DSGT drive standard FPGA LVDS inputs without external termination?

Yes, TLV3801DSGT is fully LVDS-compliant and drives standard FPGA LVDS inputs directly when a 100-Ω differential termination resistor is placed across OUT+ and OUT– at the FPGA end. The device delivers ±350 mV differential swing with 1.25 V common-mode voltage, meeting ANSI TIA/EIA-644-A LVDS specifications. No external level shifters or current-limiting resistors are required for interface compliance.

How does the 2-mV internal hysteresis in TLV3801DSGT impact small-signal detection in LIDAR applications?

The 2-mV internal hysteresis in TLV3801DSGT prevents output chatter on low-amplitude, noisy return pulses - common in long-range or low-reflectivity LIDAR scenarios - without masking valid sub-2-mV signal transitions. Unlike zero-hysteresis variants (e.g., TLV3811C), this value strikes a balance: sufficient to reject broadband noise below ~10 MHz, yet low enough to preserve detection of fast 240-ps pulses with minimal amplitude distortion in time-critical optical timing paths.