Texas Instruments VCA8617PAGR
- Part No.:
- VCA8617PAGR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 64-TQFP
- Datasheet:
-
VCA8617PAGR.pdf
- Description:
- IC VARIABLE GAIN 8 CIRC 64TQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,495
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Product details
Overview
VCA8617PAGR from Texas Instruments is an 8-channel variable gain amplifier (VGA) with integrated LNA, VCA, PGA, 2-pole anti-aliasing filter, and CW processor-designed specifically for portable ultrasound beamforming front-ends. It delivers 20dB fixed LNA gain, programmable PGA gain (25–40dB), 0–40dB VCA attenuation, 1.05nV/√Hz input noise at 5MHz, and 14.5MHz low-pass filter bandwidth.
For engineers reviewing the VCA8617PAGR datasheet, VCA8617PAGR pinout, VCA8617PAGR application, or VCA8617PAGR equivalent, this device requires attention to its dual-domain control (serial interface + analog VCNTRL), differential output architecture, TQFP-64 thermal management (θJA = 66.6°C/W), and channel-specific CW routing via 8×10 crosspoint matrix.
Technical Context
The VCA8617PAGR implements a cascaded signal path: single-ended LNA → programmable VCA → digital-configurable PGA → integrated Butterworth low-pass filter. Each channel supports independent gain control via SPI (40-bit frames) and analog voltage (VCNTRL, 0–2.0V), enabling time-gain compensation (TGC) and Doppler mode selection.
Its CW processor provides 10-channel current-mode outputs (CW0–CW9) with 17–23mA/V transconductance and internal biasing (VLNA, VFIL, VCM, VREF). The 8×10 crosspoint switch routes LNA outputs to CW channels under register control, while FIFO-based serial interface enables real-time gain reconfiguration without interrupting signal flow.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channels | 8 independent analog signal paths with full per-channel gain control |
| LNA Input Noise | 1.05nV/√Hz at 5MHz - enables high-SNR reception in low-amplitude ultrasound echoes |
| PGA Gain Range | 25dB / 30dB / 35dB / 40dB - digitally selectable via PG[1:0] bits for dynamic range optimization |
| VCA Max Attenuation | 29dB / 33dB / 36.5dB / 40dB - set by ATN[1:0]; continuous 0–40dB analog control via VCNTRL |
| Filter Bandwidth | 14.5MHz −3dB cutoff - matches typical B-mode imaging bandwidths and suppresses aliasing |
| Power Dissipation | 950mW max (all channels active) - optimized for battery-powered portable systems with thermal constraints |
| Crosstalk | 49dB minimum - ensures channel isolation critical for beamforming accuracy and image resolution |
Pinout & Package
TQFP-64 package (10mm × 10mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad; designed for high-density ultrasound PCB layouts requiring controlled impedance and low-noise grounding.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| IN1–IN8 | Single-ended LNA inputs | Accept echo signals from ultrasound transducer elements; 4.5kΩ input resistance, 52pF capacitance |
| OUT1–OUT8 (±) | Differential PGA outputs | Drive ADC inputs with 2VPP swing, 10Ω output impedance, and ±3ns group delay variation |
| VCNTRL | Analog VCA control input | 0–2.0V input sets attenuation slope of 18dB/V; 1MΩ input resistance, 0.2μs response to 40dB step |
| DIN/CLK/CS/DOUT | SPI serial interface | 40-bit frame protocol (5-byte register map); supports daisy-chaining and readback from FIFO |
| CW0–CW9 | Continuous-wave processor outputs | Current-mode outputs (17–23mA/V) for Doppler mixing; each routed via 8×10 matrix under register control |
| VLNA/VFIL/VCM/VREF | Internal reference voltage nodes | Require external 0.1μF bypass capacitors; VLNA sets LNA common-mode (1.4V), VCM sets output common-mode (1.5V) |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 8×10 crosspoint switch | Enables flexible routing of any LNA output to any CW channel without external multiplexers |
| Readback-capable control registers | Allows verification of gain settings and fault detection via DOUT during operation |
| Programmable power-down mode | Reduces total supply current to 9mW (vs 950mW active) - extends battery life in handheld scanners |
| Input clamp diodes | Protects LNA inputs from transducer ring-down overvoltage events up to ±0.3V beyond supplies |
| Dual-mode operation (TGC/CW) | Hardware-selectable via MODE bit: TGC mode powers CW block down; Doppler mode powers LNA/VGA down |
Applications
| B-mode Ultrasound Imaging | Doppler Blood Flow Analysis |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Real-time grayscale imaging of anatomical structures using pulse-echo technique with depth-dependent gain compensation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end VGA providing time-gain control (TGC) across 8 parallel receive channels before ADC digitization. Use Value: 1.05nV/√Hz input noise and 20dB LNA gain preserve weak deep-tissue echoes; 14.5MHz filter bandwidth supports 5–7.5MHz transducers. |
Use Scenario: Detection and spectral analysis of moving blood cells using continuous-wave Doppler excitation and demodulation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: CW processor generating phase-coherent current outputs (CW0–CW9) for mixer injection, synchronized with LNA timing. Use Value: 17–23mA/V transconductance and <±3ns group delay variation ensure precise quadrature demodulation and velocity estimation. |
| Portable Handheld Scanners | Point-of-Care Ultrasound Systems |
Use Scenario: Battery-operated, palm-sized diagnostic devices requiring low power, small footprint, and high channel density. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Single-chip 8-channel analog front-end replacing discrete LNAs, VGAs, filters, and CW drivers. Use Value: 950mW total power and TQFP-64 package reduce thermal load and board area; SPI interface simplifies microcontroller integration. |
Use Scenario: Compact clinical systems deployed in emergency, ICU, or rural settings where rapid setup and reliability are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Signal conditioning hub managing gain, filtering, and CW routing across multiple probe types and imaging modes. Use Value: Readable registers and hardware mode select (TGC/Doppler) enable fast reconfiguration between exam types without firmware reload. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 8-channel ultrasound VGA applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD8332ACPZ-R7 | 2-channel VGA only; no integrated LNA, filter, or CW processor; higher noise (2.7nV/√Hz) | Requires external components for 8-channel scaling; limited to basic TGC without Doppler support | Select when system uses external LNA/filter and needs higher bandwidth (100MHz) over integration |
| VCA82x series (e.g., VCA824IPWPR) | Single-channel VGA; no CW processor or crosspoint switch; lower power (220mW/channel) | Demands 8× discrete ICs and complex interconnect; lacks integrated anti-aliasing filter | Select for modular designs where channel independence and thermal isolation outweigh integration benefits |
Compared with AD8332ACPZ-R7 and VCA824IPWPR, the VCA8617PAGR uniquely integrates LNA, VCA, PGA, filter, and CW processing in one TQFP-64 package-reducing component count by >70%, eliminating inter-channel skew, and enabling true single-chip ultrasound front-end implementation.
Availability
VCA8617PAGR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable ultrasound imaging, Doppler blood flow analysis, handheld medical scanners, and point-of-care diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for VCA8617PAGR 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 connectivity technologies for industrial, automotive, and medical applications.
The VCA8617PAGR belongs to TI's ultrasound analog front-end (AFE) product line, engineered specifically for portable and battery-powered medical imaging systems demanding ultra-low noise, multi-channel integration, and real-time gain control.
FAQ
What is the operating supply voltage range for the VCA8617PAGR?
The VCA8617PAGR operates from AVDD = DVDD = 2.85V to 3.15V (±5% of 3V nominal). Both analog and digital supplies must be within this range simultaneously; exceeding 3.6V on AVDD risks permanent damage per absolute maximum ratings. The device draws 950mW at full operation, requiring proper decoupling and thermal design.
How does the VCA8617PAGR implement time-gain compensation (TGC)?
The VCA8617PAGR implements TGC through its dual-control architecture: analog VCNTRL voltage (0–2.0V) sets continuous VCA attenuation (0–40dB), while digital PG[1:0] bits select discrete PGA gain steps (25–40dB). This allows precise, real-time depth-dependent gain adjustment across all 8 channels via SPI or analog ramp.
Does the VCA8617PAGR support differential input signals?
No-the VCA8617PAGR accepts only single-ended inputs at IN1–IN8 pins. Its LNA is optimized for single-ended transducer signals, with 4.5kΩ input resistance and 52pF capacitance. Differential signaling is supported only at the output stage (OUT1–OUT8 ± pairs), not at the input.
What is the function of the CW0–CW9 pins on the VCA8617PAGR?
The CW0–CW9 pins are current-mode outputs from the integrated CW processor, delivering 17–23mA/V transconductance for Doppler mixing. Each pin can be individually routed to any LNA channel via the 8×10 crosspoint matrix under register control (Table 8), enabling flexible beam steering and quadrature demodulation.
Can the VCA8617PAGR be used outside ultrasound applications?
While technically functional in other low-noise, multi-channel gain-control scenarios, the VCA8617PAGR is architecturally optimized for ultrasound: its 14.5MHz filter, CW processor, TGC timing, and transducer interface characteristics (input clamp diodes, 200mVPP max input) make it unsuitable for general-purpose instrumentation or RF applications without significant validation.
VCA8617PAGR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 64-TQFP
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Amplifier Type:
- Variable Gain
- Number of Circuits:
- 8
- Output Type:
- Differential
- Slew Rate:
- 300V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- 100 MHz
- -3db Bandwidth:
- -
- Current - Input Bias:
- 1 nA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 2.85 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 3.15 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 64-TQFP (10x10)
VCA8617PAGR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for VCA8617PAGR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for VCA8617PAGR 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 VCA8617PAGR reliable?
The price and inventory of VCA8617PAGR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for VCA8617PAGR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for VCA8617PAGR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for VCA8617PAGR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for VCA8617PAGR?
VCA8617PAGR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your VCA8617PAGR 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 VCA8617PAGR?
For technical support, including VCA8617PAGR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your VCA8617PAGR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that VCA8617PAGR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All VCA8617PAGR 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 VCA8617PAGR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of VCA8617PAGR?
All VCA8617PAGR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with VCA8617PAGR, 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 VCA8617PAGR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for VCA8617PAGR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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