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Texas Instruments VCA2618YR
- Part No.:
- VCA2618YR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 32-TQFP
- Datasheet:
-
VCA2618YR.pdf
- Description:
- IC VARIABLE GAIN 2 CIRC 32TQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,430
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Product details
Overview
VCA2618YR from Texas Instruments is a dual-channel, analog-controlled variable gain amplifier (VGA) with integrated input buffer, voltage-controlled attenuator (VCA), and programmable gain amplifier (PGA). It delivers up to 43dB gain range, 30MHz −3dB bandwidth, and 65dB crosstalk rejection at 5MHz, enabling precise signal conditioning in high-dynamic-range receive chains.
For engineers reviewing the VCA2618YR datasheet, VCA2618YR pinout, VCA2618YR application, or VCA2618YR equivalent, key selection considerations include its dual-channel differential output capability, MGS-selectable maximum gain (up to 43dB), low-noise input buffer (5.4nV/√Hz), analog gain control interface (0.2–3.0V), and TQFP-32 package compatibility with ultrasound and radar front-end layouts.
Technical Context
The VCA2618YR implements a cascaded architecture: a unity-gain, 100MHz-bandwidth input buffer isolates source impedance; followed by a voltage-controlled attenuator with 0–43dB attenuation range set by VCACNTL (pin 24); then a digitally programmable PGA whose gain (0–43dB in 3dB steps) is selected via MGS1–MGS3 (pins 21–23).
All stages are AC-coupled; internal coupling sets a ~75kHz high-pass corner before the PGA, while the overall small-signal −3dB bandwidth is 30MHz. The device supports both single-ended and differential outputs (POUTA/NOUTA, POUTB/NOUTB), with power-down mode (PD, pin 20) reducing consumption to 9.2mW per channel.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Gain Range | 0dB to +43dB (user-programmable via MGS bits and analog VCACNTL voltage) |
| −3dB Bandwidth | 30MHz (ensures fidelity for ultrasound imaging harmonics and radar IF signals) |
| Crosstalk | 65dB at 5MHz, max gain (critical for dual-channel beamforming isolation) |
| Input Noise | 5.4nV/√Hz at PGA gain = 45dB, RS = 50Ω (supports low-level signal amplification) |
| Gain Control Linearity | ±1.3dB error over VCACNTL = 0.4–2.9V (enables accurate AGC loop calibration) |
| Power-Down Current | 9.2mW per channel (reduces system standby power in portable medical devices) |
| Output Configuration | Differential or single-ended (POUTA/NOUTA, POUTB/NOUTB; differential mode preserves SNR) |
Pinout & Package
TQFP-32 surface-mount package (7.0mm × 7.0mm, 0.5mm pitch), rated for −40°C to +85°C operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| +INA, +INB | Noninverting Input (Ch A/B) | AC-coupled, high-impedance (600kΩ) inputs for buffered signal injection |
| VCACNTL (Pin 24) | Analog Gain Control Voltage | 0.2–3.0V linear-in-dB interface; 0.2µs response to 45dB gain step |
| MGS1–MGS3 (Pins 21–23) | Maximum Gain Select (MSB–LSB) | 3-bit digital code setting VCA attenuation/PGA gain range (e.g., 111 = ±43dB) |
| PD (Pin 20) | Power-Down Enable | Active-low signal disabling bias current; reduces quiescent power by >90% |
| POUTA/NOUTA, POUTB/NOUTB | Differential Output (Ch A/B) | Low-impedance (1Ω) outputs drive 500Ω loads differentially for ADC interfacing |
| VDDA/V DDB, GNDA/GNDB | Channel-Specific Supply/Ground | Independent power domains minimize inter-channel supply coupling |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual independent VGA channels | Matched gain error ≤ ±0.18dB (at VCACNTL = 3.0V), enabling coherent beamforming |
| Integrated input buffer | 600kΩ input resistance, 5pF capacitance, and 1VPP max input - simplifies driver stage design |
| Programmable bandwidth shaping | External capacitor on CP1A/CP2A or CP1B/CP2B adjusts low-frequency cutoff below 75kHz |
| Low distortion at full scale | −50dBc 3rd-harmonic distortion (2VPP diff, VCACNTL = 3.0V) preserves signal integrity |
| High common-mode rejection | Driven by internal VCM (pin 5) and matched differential outputs - suppresses PCB noise coupling |
Applications
| Ultrasound Imaging Systems | Phased Array Radar Receivers |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Amplifying weak echo signals from piezoelectric transducers across multiple receive channels with dynamic range >100dB. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel VGA providing programmable gain and differential output to ADCs in real-time beamformer ASIC interfaces. Use Value: 65dB crosstalk and <±0.18dB gain matching between channels ensure spatial resolution and image contrast fidelity. |
Use Scenario: Conditioning intermediate-frequency (IF) signals in X-band radar receivers where phase coherence and low distortion are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual VGA serving as AGC-controlled front-end for digitization of pulsed Doppler returns. Use Value: 30MHz bandwidth and −50dBc harmonic distortion maintain pulse fidelity and clutter rejection performance. |
| Wireless Base Station Test Equipment | High-Fidelity Signal Generators |
Use Scenario: Emulating variable path loss in RF conformance test systems for LTE/5G baseband validation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision analog gain control element in automated test equipment (ATE) signal paths. Use Value: ±1.3dB gain accuracy and 0.2µs control response enable fast, repeatable level stepping during production testing. |
Use Scenario: Building programmable gain stages in laboratory-grade arbitrary waveform generators requiring flat frequency response. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, wideband VGA used in output stage calibration loops for amplitude accuracy. Use Value: 5.4nV/√Hz input-referred noise and 100MHz buffer bandwidth preserve spectral purity up to 30MHz. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar variable gain amplifier applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| THS7530IRHFT | Single-channel, 300MHz bandwidth, fixed 24dB gain; no MGS programming or power-down | Lacks dual-channel integration and programmable gain range - suitable only for fixed-gain IF amplification | Select when bandwidth >30MHz is required and channel count/gain flexibility are secondary |
| VCA2615YR | Same family, single-channel version; identical pinout except for channel B signals removed | Reduces PCB area and cost for single-path designs but eliminates channel matching capability | Choose when system requires only one VGA channel and board space is constrained |
Compared with THS7530IRHFT and VCA2615YR, the VCA2618YR uniquely combines dual-channel matching, MGS-selectable 43dB gain range, and power-down functionality - making it the only option for compact, low-power, multi-channel AGC systems demanding tight gain tracking.
Availability
VCA2618YR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for ultrasound imaging systems, phased-array radar receivers, and wireless test equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for VCA2618YR 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-performance signal chain components.
The VCA2618YR belongs to TI's precision variable gain amplifier product line, designed specifically for medical ultrasound, defense radar, and instrumentation applications demanding ultra-low distortion, high channel-to-channel matching, and flexible analog/digital gain control.
FAQ
What is the maximum gain achievable with the VCA2618YR?
The VCA2618YR achieves a maximum gain of +43dB when configured with MGS = 111 (pins 21–23) and VCACNTL = 3.0V. This setting corresponds to zero VCA attenuation and full PGA amplification. Gain is programmable in 3dB steps across seven MGS configurations, with minimum gain of 0dB at VCACNTL = 0V regardless of MGS setting. The VCA2618YR maintains this performance across its specified −40°C to +85°C operating range.
Does the VCA2618YR support differential input operation?
No, the VCA2618YR accepts only single-ended inputs at +INA and +INB (pins 1 and 8). Its input buffer is noninverting and unity-gain, requiring external AC coupling capacitors. However, the internal PGA converts the attenuated signal to differential format, and the device provides fully differential outputs (POUTA/NOUTA and POUTB/NOUTB) optimized for driving high-performance ADCs. Input common-mode voltage is set by VCM (pin 5).
How does the power-down mode affect VCA2618YR functionality?
Asserting PD (pin 20) low disables internal bias currents, reducing total supply current to 9.2mW per channel. During power-down, all analog signal paths are disabled: input buffer, VCA, and PGA cease operation, and outputs enter high-impedance state. Recovery time from power-down is not specified in the datasheet, but full settling occurs within microseconds after PD is deasserted and supplies stabilize. The VCA2618YR retains MGS and VCACNTL settings across power-down cycles.
Can the VCA2618YR be used with a 3.3V supply?
No, the VCA2618YR requires a nominal 5.0V supply (specified range: 4.75V to 5.25V) on VDDA and VDDB (pins 28 and 13). Operation outside this range risks parametric degradation or functional failure. The device is not 3.3V-compatible; using 3.3V will result in insufficient headroom for the 2.5V ±1V output swing and may prevent proper VCA/PGA biasing. For 3.3V systems, consider TI's VCA2612 or similar lower-voltage VGAs.
What is the purpose of the CP1A/CP2A and CP1B/CP2B pins on the VCA2618YR?
The CP1A/CP2A (pins 29/30) and CP1B/CP2B (pins 11/12) pins provide external access to the internal AC coupling capacitors between the VCA and PGA stages. Adding external capacitors here lowers the high-pass cutoff frequency below the default ~75kHz, extending low-frequency response for applications like broadband seismic sensing. The value must be chosen carefully: too large a capacitor increases power-on delay, while values below 100pF risk instability. The VCA2618YR datasheet provides the exact RC formula for target corner frequency calculation.
VCA2618YR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-TQFP
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Amplifier Type:
- Variable Gain
- Number of Circuits:
- 2
- Output Type:
- Differential
- Slew Rate:
- 300V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- 100 MHz
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 30 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 1 nA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 40 mA
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 4.75 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 5.25 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-TQFP (5x5)
VCA2618YR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for VCA2618YR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for VCA2618YR 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 VCA2618YR reliable?
The price and inventory of VCA2618YR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for VCA2618YR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for VCA2618YR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for VCA2618YR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for VCA2618YR?
VCA2618YR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your VCA2618YR 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 VCA2618YR?
For technical support, including VCA2618YR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your VCA2618YR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that VCA2618YR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All VCA2618YR 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 VCA2618YR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of VCA2618YR?
All VCA2618YR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with VCA2618YR, 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 VCA2618YR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for VCA2618YR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
VCA2618YR Tags
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