Texas Instruments VCA810IDRG4

Overview

VCA810IDRG4 from Texas Instruments is a DC-coupled, wideband, voltage-controlled gain amplifier with differential input and single-ended output, operating from ±5-V supplies. It delivers ±40 dB gain adjust range (–40 dB at 0 V VC to +40 dB at –2 V VC), 35 MHz small-signal bandwidth, 2.4 nV/√Hz input noise, and ±60 mA output drive - enabling high-fidelity signal conditioning in optical receiver TGC and sonar pulse-amplitude compensation.

For engineers reviewing the VCA810IDRG4 datasheet, VCA810IDRG4 pinout, VCA810IDRG4 application, or VCA810IDRG4 equivalent, key selection criteria include gain linearity (±0.3 dB), constant bandwidth vs. gain, RSSI-capable gain control accuracy (±1.5 dB), low output DC error (< ±40 mV), and SOIC-8 package compatibility with ±4 V to ±5.5 V supply operation.

Technical Context

The VCA810IDRG4 implements a transconductance-based analog multiplier architecture where gain is set by a high-impedance voltage-controlled current source driving a fixed transimpedance stage. Its differential input supports common-mode rejection >80 dB while maintaining ±2.4 V common-mode input range, and its gain control path features 25 MHz bandwidth and –40 dB/V slope with <0.8 μs settling for 80-dB steps.

Signal path design preserves group delay flatness (<3.5 ns variation over gain) and minimal peaking (<0.5 dB), critical for pulse edge integrity in time-domain applications. Output stage uses a Class-AB buffer capable of ±1.7 V swing into 100 Ω and drives 50-Ω doubly-terminated lines without external components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: SOIC-8 (4.90 mm × 3.91 mm), surface-mount, RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar voltage-controlled amplifier applications.

Compared with VCA2612 and VCA820, the VCA810IDRG4 offers superior noise performance (2.4 nV/√Hz) and tighter gain linearity (±0.3 dB) at 35 MHz - making it optimal for precision time-domain applications like optical TGC and sonar where pulse fidelity and low-noise amplification are critical.

Availability

VCA810IDRG4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for optical receiver time-gain control, sonar pulse-amplitude compensation, and voltage-tunable active filter designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for VCA810IDRG4 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 company specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with leadership in high-performance signal chain products.

The VCA810IDRG4 belongs to TI's Variable Gain Amplifier (VGA) product line, designed specifically for precision analog gain control in test equipment, medical ultrasound, optical communications, and defense radar front-ends.

FAQ

What is the gain control voltage range for the VCA810IDRG4?

The VCA810IDRG4 accepts a gain control voltage (VC) from 0 V to –2 V, delivering –40 dB gain at 0 V and +40 dB gain at –2 V, with a nominal slope of –40 dB/V. Operation outside this range provides >80 dB attenuation. The device maintains ±1.5 dB gain accuracy across –1.8 V to –0.2 V, supporting reliable RSSI functionality in AGC loops.

Does the VCA810IDRG4 support differential input operation?

Yes, the VCA810IDRG4 features fully differential high-impedance inputs (+In and –In) with >80 dB common-mode rejection ratio at 25°C. When used differentially, it enables balanced signal acquisition and improved noise immunity. DC bias paths must be provided externally for both inputs, as no internal termination is present.

What is the maximum output voltage swing of the VCA810IDRG4?

The VCA810IDRG4 delivers ±1.7 V output swing into a 100 Ω load at ±5 V supplies and maximum gain (40 dB). Into 500 Ω, the swing extends to ±1.8 V. The output is ground-referenced and capable of sourcing/sinking ±60 mA, enabling direct drive of ADC inputs or 50-Ω transmission lines without external buffers.

Can the VCA810IDRG4 be used in single-supply configurations?

No - the VCA810IDRG4 requires dual ±4 V to ±5.5 V supplies and is not specified for single-supply operation. Its internal architecture relies on symmetrical rails to maintain DC-coupled operation, common-mode input range, and output swing symmetry. Attempting single-supply use violates absolute maximum ratings and invalidates all AC/DC specifications.

How does temperature affect gain accuracy in the VCA810IDRG4?

Gain accuracy drift is ±0.02 dB/°C over –1.8 V ≤ VC ≤ –0.2 V, resulting in ±0.8 dB total drift across –40°C to +85°C. At VC extremes (< –1.8 V or > –0.2 V), drift increases to ±0.04 dB/°C. This low drift supports stable AGC performance in industrial environments without active recalibration.