AD602A [ADI]

Dual, Low Noise, Wideband Variable Gain Amplifiers; 双通道,低噪声,宽带可变增益放大器
AD602A
型号: AD602A
厂家: ADI    ADI
描述:

Dual, Low Noise, Wideband Variable Gain Amplifiers
双通道,低噪声,宽带可变增益放大器

放大器
文件: 总20页 (文件大小:671K)
中文:  中文翻译
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Dual, Low Noise, Wideband  
Variable Gain Amplifiers  
a
AD600/AD602*  
FEATURES  
FUNCTIONAL BLOCK DIAGRAM  
Two Channels with Independent Gain Control  
“Linear in dB” Gain Response  
GAT1  
Two Gain Ranges:  
AD600: 0 dB to +40 dB  
PRECISION PASSIVE  
GATING  
SCALING  
REFERENCE  
INTERFACE  
INPUT ATTENUATOR  
AD602: –10 dB to +30 dB  
Accurate Absolute Gain: ؎0.3 dB  
Low Input Noise: 1.4 nV/Hz  
Low Distortion: –60 dBc THD at ؎1 V Output  
High Bandwidth: DC to 35 MHz (–3 dB)  
Stable Group Delay: ؎2 ns  
C1HI  
A1OP  
VG  
C1LO  
GAIN CONTROL  
INTERFACE  
RF2  
2.24k(AD600)  
694(AD602)  
RF1  
20Ω  
0dB –6.02dB –12.04dB –18.06dB  
–22.08dB –30.1dB –36.12dB –42.14dB  
A1HI  
Low Power: 125 mW (max) per Amplifier  
Signal Gating Function for Each Amplifier  
Drives High Speed A/D Converters  
MIL-STD-883 Compliant and DESC Versions Available  
A1CM  
500Ω  
62.5Ω  
FIXED GAIN  
A1LO  
AMPLIFIER  
41.07dB (AD600)  
31.07dB (AD602)  
R – 2R LADDER NETWORK  
APPLICATIONS  
Ultrasound and Sonar Time-Gain Control  
High Performance Audio and RF AGC Systems  
Signal Measurement  
The gain-control interfaces are fully differential, providing an  
input resistance of ~15 Mand a scale factor of 32 dB/V (that  
is, 31.25 mV/dB) defined by an internal voltage reference. The  
response time of this interface is less than 1 µs. Each channel  
also has an independent gating facility that optionally blocks sig-  
nal transmission and sets the dc output level to within a few mil-  
livolts of the output ground. The gating control input is TTL  
and CMOS compatible.  
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION  
The AD600 and AD602 dual channel, low noise variable gain  
amplifiers are optimized for use in ultrasound imaging systems,  
but are applicable to any application requiring very precise gain,  
low noise and distortion, and wide bandwidth. Each indepen-  
dent channel provides a gain of 0 dB to +40 dB in the AD600  
and –10 dB to +30 dB in the AD602. The lower gain of the  
AD602 results in an improved signal-to-noise ratio at the out-  
put. However, both products have the same 1.4 nV/Hz input  
noise spectral density. The decibel gain is directly proportional  
to the control voltage, is accurately calibrated, and is supply-  
and temperature-stable.  
The maximum gain of the AD600 is 41.07 dB, and that of the  
AD602 is 31.07 dB; the –3 dB bandwidth of both models is  
nominally 35 MHz, essentially independent of the gain. The  
signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) for a 1 V rms output and a 1 MHz  
noise bandwidth is typically 76 dB for the AD600 and 86 dB for  
the AD602. The amplitude response is flat within ±0.5 dB from  
100 kHz to 10 MHz; over this frequency range the group delay  
varies by less than ±2 ns at all gain settings.  
To achieve the difficult performance objectives, a proprietary  
circuit form—the X-AMP®—has been developed. Each channel  
of the X-AMP comprises a variable attenuator of 0 dB to  
–42.14 dB followed by a high speed fixed gain amplifier. In this  
way, the amplifier never has to cope with large inputs, and can  
benefit from the use of negative feedback to precisely define the  
gain and dynamics. The attenuator is realized as a seven-stage  
R-2R ladder network having an input resistance of 100 , laser-  
trimmed to ±2%. The attenuation between tap points is 6.02 dB;  
the gain-control circuit provides continuous interpolation be-  
tween these taps. The resulting control function is linear in dB.  
Each amplifier channel can drive 100 load impedances with  
low distortion. For example, the peak specified output is ±2.5 V  
minimum into a 500 load, or ±1 V into a 100 load. For a  
200 load in shunt with 5 pF, the total harmonic distortion for  
a ±1 V sinusoidal output at 10 MHz is typically –60 dBc.  
The AD600J and AD602J are specified for operation from 0°C  
to +70°C, and are available in both 16-pin plastic DIP (N) and  
16-pin SOIC (R). The AD600A and AD602A are specified for  
operation from –40°C to +85°C and are available in both 16-pin  
cerdip (Q) and 16-pin SOIC (R).  
The AD600S and AD602S are specified for operation from  
–55°C to +125°C and are available in a 16-pin cerdip (Q) pack-  
age and are MIL-STD-883 compliant. The AD600S and  
AD602S are also available under DESC SMD 5962-94572.  
X-AMP is a registered trademark of Analog Devices, Inc.  
*Patented.  
REV. A  
Information furnished by Analog Devices is believed to be accurate and  
reliable. However, no responsibility is assumed by Analog Devices for its  
use, nor for any infringements of patents or other rights of third parties  
which may result from its use. No license is granted by implication or  
otherwise under any patent or patent rights of Analog Devices.  
One Technology Way, P.O. Box 9106, Norwood, MA 02062-9106, U.S.A.  
Tel: 617/329-4700  
Fax: 617/326-8703  
(Each amplifier section, at T = +25؇C, V = ؎5 V, –625 mV V ≤  
+625 mV, RL = 500 , and CL = 5 pF, unless otherwise noted. Specifications for AD600 and AD602 are identical unless otherwise noted.)  
AD600/AD602–SPECIFICATIONS  
A
S
G
AD600J/AD602J  
AD600A/AD602A  
Parameter  
Conditions  
Min  
Typ  
Max  
Min  
Typ  
Max  
Units  
INPUT CHARACTERISTICS  
Input Resistance  
Pins 2 to 3; Pins 6 to 7  
98  
100  
2
1.4  
5.3  
2
102  
95  
100  
2
1.4  
5.3  
2
105  
pF  
nV/Hz  
dB  
dB  
Input Capacitance  
Input Noise Spectral Density1  
Noise Figure  
RS = 50 , Maximum Gain  
RS = 200 , Maximum Gain  
f = 100 kHz  
Common-Mode Rejection Ratio  
30  
30  
dB  
OUTPUT CHARACTERISTICS  
–3 dB Bandwidth  
VOUT = 100 mV rms  
35  
275  
±3  
2
35  
275  
±3  
2
MHz  
V/µs  
V
Slew Rate  
Peak Output2  
RL 500 Ω  
f 10 MHz  
±2.5  
±2.5  
Output Impedance  
Output Short-Circuit Current  
Group Delay Change vs. Gain  
Group Delay Change vs. Frequency  
Total Harmonic Distortion  
50  
±2  
±2  
–60  
50  
±2  
±2  
–60  
mA  
ns  
ns  
f = 3 MHz; Full Gain Range  
VG = 0 V, f = 1 MHz to 10 MHz  
RL= 200 , VOUT = ±1 V Peak, Rpd = 1 kΩ  
dBc  
ACCURACY  
AD600  
Gain Error  
0 dB to 3 dB Gain  
3 dB to 37 dB Gain  
37 dB to 40 dB Gain  
VG = –625 mV to +625 mV  
VG = –625 mV to +625 mV  
0
–0.5  
–1  
+0.5  
±0.2  
–0.5  
10  
+1  
+0.5  
0
50  
50  
–0.5  
–0.1  
–1.5  
+0.5  
±0.2  
–0.5  
10  
+0.5  
+1.0  
+0.5  
65  
dB  
dB  
dB  
mV  
mV  
Maximum Output Offset Voltage3  
Output Offset Variation  
AD602  
10  
10  
65  
Gain Error  
–10 dB to –7 dB Gain  
–7 dB to 27 dB Gain  
27 dB to 30 dB Gain  
VG = –625 mV to +625 mV  
VG = –625 mV to +625 mV  
0
–0.5  
–1  
+0.5  
±0.2  
–0.5  
5
+1  
+0.5  
0
30  
30  
–0.5  
0.1  
–1.5  
+0.5  
±0.2  
–0.5  
10  
+1.5  
+1.0  
+0.5  
45  
dB  
dB  
dB  
mV  
mV  
Maximum Output Offset Voltage3  
Output Offset Variation  
5
10  
45  
GAIN CONTROL INTERFACE  
Gain Scaling Factor  
Common-Mode Range  
Input Bias Current  
3 dB to 37 dB (AD600); –7 dB to 27 dB (AD602) 31.7  
32  
32.3  
2.5  
1
30.5  
–0.75  
32  
33.5  
2.5  
1
dB/V  
V
µA  
–0.75  
0.35  
10  
0.35  
10  
Input Offset Current  
50  
50  
nA  
Differential Input Resistance  
Response Rate  
Pins I to 16; Pins 8 to 9  
Full 40 dB Gain Change  
15  
40  
15  
40  
50  
MΩ  
dB/µs  
SIGNAL GATING INTERFACE  
Logic Input “LO” (Output ON)  
Logic Input “HI” (Output OFF)  
Response Time  
0.8  
0.8  
V
V
µs  
kΩ  
2.4  
ON to OFF, OFF to ON  
Pins 4 to 3 Pins 5 to 6  
2.4  
0.3  
30  
0.3  
30  
Input Resistance  
Output Gated OFF  
Output Offset Voltage  
Output Noise Spectral Density  
Signal Feedthrough @ 1 MHz  
AD600  
±10  
65  
؎100  
±10  
65  
؎400  
mV  
nV/Hz  
–80  
–70  
–80  
–70  
dB  
dB  
AD602  
POWER SUPPLY  
Specified Operating Range  
Quiescent Current  
±4.75  
±5.25 ±4.75  
12.5  
±5.25  
14  
V
mA  
11  
11  
NOTES  
1Typical open or short-circuited input; noise is lower when system is set to maximum gain and input is short-circuited. This figure includes the effects of both voltage  
and current noise sources.  
2Using resistive loads of 500 or greater, or with the addition of a 1 kpull-down resistor when driving lower loads  
3The dc gain of the main amplifier in the AD600 is X113; thus an input offset of only 100 µV becomes an 11.3 mV output offset. In the AD602, the amplifier’s gain is  
X35.7; thus, an input offset of 100 µV becomes a 3.57 mV output offset.  
Specifications shown in boldface are tested on all production units at final electrical test Results from those tests are used to calculate outgoing quality levels. All min  
and max specifications guaranteed, although only those shown in boldface are tested on all production units.  
Specifications subject to change without notice.  
REV. A  
–2–  
AD600/AD602  
PIN DESCRIPTION  
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS1  
Supply Voltage ±VS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ±7.5 V  
Input Voltages  
Pin  
Function Description  
Pins 1, 8, 9, 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ±VS  
Pins 2, 3, 6, 7 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ±2 V Continuous  
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ±VS for 10 ms  
Pins 4, 5 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ±VS  
Internal Power Dissipation2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .600 mW  
Operating Temperature Range (J) . . . . . . . . . . . 0°C to +70°C  
Operating Temperature Range (A) . . . . . . . . .40°C to +85°C  
Operating Temperature Range (S) . . . . . . . . .55°C to +125°C  
Storage Temperature Range . . . . . . . . . . . . .65°C to +150°C  
Lead Temperature Range (Soldering 60 sec) . . . . . . . . +300°C  
Pin 1 C1LO  
CH1 Gain-Control Input “LO” (Positive  
Voltage Reduces CH1 Gain).  
Pin 2 A1HI  
Pin 3 A1LO  
Pin 4 GAT1  
Pin 5 GAT2  
Pin 6 A2LO  
Pin 7 A2HI  
Pin 8 C2LO  
Pin 9 C2HI  
Pin 10 A2CM  
CH1 Signal Input “HI” (Positive Voltage  
Increases CH1 Output).  
CH1 Signal Input “LO” (Usually Taken to  
CH1 Input Ground)  
CH1 Gating Input (A Logic “HI” Shuts Off  
CH1 Signal Path).  
CH2 Gating Input (A Logic “HI” Shuts Off  
CH2 Signal Path).  
NOTES  
1Stresses above those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause  
permanent damage to the device. This is a stress rating only and functional  
operation of the device at these or any other conditions above those indicated in the  
operational section of this specification is not implied. Exposure to absolute  
maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.  
2Thermal Characteristics: 16-Pin Plastic Package: θJA = 85°C/Watt  
16-Pin SOIC Package: θJA = 100°C/Watt  
CH2 Signal Input “LO” (Usually Taken to  
CH2 Input Ground).  
CH2 Signal Input “HI” (Positive Voltage  
Increases CH2 Output).  
CH2 Gain-Control Input “LO” (Positive  
Voltage Reduces CH2 Gain).  
16-Pin Cerdip Package: θJA = 120°C/Watt  
CH2 Gain-Control Input “HI” (Positive  
Voltage Increases CH2 Gain).  
ORDERING GUIDE  
CH2 Common (Usually Taken to CH2  
Output Ground).  
Gain  
Range  
Temperatue  
Range  
Package  
Option1  
Model  
Pin 11 A2OP  
Pin 12 VNEG  
Pin 13 VPOS  
Pin 14 A1OP  
Pin 15 A1CM  
CH2 Output.  
AD600AQ  
AD600AR  
AD602AQ  
AD602AR  
0 dB to +40 dB  
0 dB to +40 dB  
–10 dB to +30 dB –40°C to +85°C Q-16  
–10 dB to +30 dB –40°C to +85°C R-16  
–40°C to +85°C Q-16  
–40°C to +85°C R-16  
Negative Supply for Both Amplifiers.  
Positive Supply for Both Amplifiers.  
CH1 Output.  
CH1 Common (Usually Taken to CH1  
Output Ground).  
AD600JN  
AD600JR  
AD602JN  
AD602JR  
0 dB to +40 dB  
0 dB to +40 dB  
0°C to +70°C  
0°C to +70°C  
N-16  
R-16  
N-16  
Pin 16 C1HI  
CH1 Gain-Control Input “HI” (Positive  
Voltage Increases CH1 Gain).  
–10 dB to +30 dB 0°C to +70°C  
–10 dB to +30 dB 0°C to +70°C  
R-16  
AD600SQ/883B2 0 dB to +40 dB  
–55°C to +150°C Q-16  
CONNECTION DIAGRAM  
16-Pin Plastic DIP (N) Package  
16-Pin Plastic SOIC (R) Package  
16-Pin Cerdip (Q) Package  
AD602SQ/883B3 –10 dB to +30 dB –55°C to +150°C Q-16  
NOTES  
1N = Plastic DIP; Q= Cerdip; R= Small Outline IC (SOIC).  
2Refer to AD600/AD602 Military data sheet. Also available as 5962-9457201MPA.  
3Refer to AD600/AD602 Military data sheet. Also available as 5962-9457202MPA.  
1
C1LO  
A1HI  
16  
15  
14  
C1HI  
A1CM  
2
3
A1  
A1LO  
GAT1  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
A1OP  
4
5
6
7
8
13 VPOS  
12 VNEG  
11 A2OP  
REF  
A2  
A2CM  
C2HI  
10  
9
C2LO  
AD600/AD602  
CAUTION  
ESD (electrostatic discharge) sensitive device. Permanent damage may occur on unconnected  
devices subject to high energy electrostatic fields. Unused devices must be stored in conductive  
foam or shunts. The protective foam should be discharged to the destination socket before  
devices are removed.  
WARNING!  
ESD SENSITIVE DEVICE  
REV. A  
–3–  
AD600/AD602  
THEORY OF OPERATION  
It will help, in understanding the AD600, to think in terms of a  
mechanical means for moving this slider from left to right; in  
fact, it is voltage controlled. The details of the control interface  
are discussed later. Note that the gain is at all times exactly de-  
termined, and a linear decibel relationship is automatically guar-  
anteed between the gain and the control parameter which  
determines the position of the slider. In practice, the gain devi-  
ates from the ideal law, by about ±0.2 dB peak (see, for ex-  
ample, Figure 6).  
The AD600 and AD602 have the same general design and fea-  
tures. They comprise two fixed gain amplifiers, each preceded  
by a voltage-controlled attenuator of 0 dB to 42.14 dB with in-  
dependent control interfaces, each having a scaling factor of  
32 dB per volt. The gain of each amplifier in the AD600 is laser  
trimmed to 41.07 dB (X113), thus providing a control range of  
–1.07 dB to 41.07 dB (0 dB to 40 dB with overlap), while the  
AD602 amplifiers have a gain of 31.07 dB (X35.8) and provide  
an overall gain of –11.07 dB to 31.07 dB (–10 dB to 30 dB with  
overlap).  
Note that the signal inputs are not fully differential: A1LO and  
A1CM (for CH1) and A2LO and A2CM (for CH2) provide  
separate access to the input and output grounds. This recog-  
nizes the practical fact that even when using a ground plane,  
small differences will arise in the voltages at these nodes. It is  
important that A1LO and A2LO be connected directly to the  
input ground(s); significant impedance in these connections will  
reduce the gain accuracy. A1CM and A2CM should be con-  
nected to the load ground(s).  
The advantage of this topology is that the amplifier can use  
negative feedback to increase the accuracy of its gain; also, since  
the amplifier never has to handle large signals at its input, the  
distortion can be very low. A further feature of this approach is  
that the small-signal gain and phase response, and thus the  
pulse response, are essentially independent of gain.  
The following discussion describes the AD600. Figure 1 is a  
simplified schematic of one channel. The input attenuator is a  
seven-section R-2R ladder network, using untrimmed resistors  
of nominally R = 62.5 , which results in a characteristic resis-  
tance of 125 Ω ± 20%. A shunt resistor is included at the input  
and laser trimmed to establish a more exact input resistance of  
100 Ω ± 2%, which ensures accurate operation (gain and HP  
corner frequency) when used in conjunction with external resis-  
tors or capacitors.  
Noise Performance  
An important reason for using this approach is the superior  
noise performance that can be achieved. The nominal resistance  
seen at the inner tap points of the attenuator is 41.7 (one  
third of 125 ), which exhibits a Johnson noise spectral density  
(NSD) of 0.84 nV/Hz (that is, 4kTR) at 27°C, which is a  
large fraction of the total input noise. The first stage of the am-  
plifier contributes a further 1.12 nV/Hz, for a total input noise  
of 1.4 nV/Hz.  
GAT1  
The noise at the 0 dB tap depends on whether the input is  
short-circuited or open-circuited: when shorted, the minimum  
NSD of 1.12 nV/Hz is achieved; when open, the resistance of  
100 at the first tap generates 1.29 nV/Hz, so the noise in-  
creases to a total of 1.71 nV/Hz. (This last calculation would  
be important if the AD600 were preceded, for example, by a  
900 resistor to allow operation from inputs up to ±10 V rms.  
However, in most cases the low impedance of the source will  
limit the maximum noise resistance.)  
PRECISION PASSIVE  
GATING  
SCALING  
REFERENCE  
INTERFACE  
INPUT ATTENUATOR  
C1HI  
A1OP  
VG  
C1LO  
GAIN CONTROL  
INTERFACE  
RF2  
2.24k(AD600)  
694(AD602)  
RF1  
20Ω  
0dB –6.02dB –12.04dB –18.06dB  
–22.08dB –30.1dB –36.12dB –42.14dB  
A1HI  
A1CM  
500Ω  
62.5Ω  
FIXED GAIN  
A1LO  
AMPLIFIER  
41.07dB (AD600)  
31.07dB (AD602)  
It will be apparent from the foregoing that it is essential to use a  
low resistance in the design of the ladder network to achieve low  
noise. In some applications this may be inconvenient, requiring  
the use of an external buffer or preamplifier. However, very few  
amplifiers combine the needed low noise with low distortion at  
maximum input levels, and the power consumption needed to  
achieve this performance is fundamentally required to be quite  
high (due to the need to maintain very low resistance values  
while also coping with large inputs). On the other hand, there is  
little value in providing a buffer with high input impedance,  
since the usual reason for this—the minimization of loading of a  
high resistance source—is not compatible with low noise.  
R – 2R LADDER NETWORK  
Figure 1. Simplified Block Diagram of Single Channel of  
the AD600 and AD602  
The nominal maximum signal at input A1HI is 1 V rms (±1.4 V  
peak) when using the recommended ±5 V supplies, although  
operation to ±2 V peak is permissible with some increase in HF  
distortion and feedthrough. Each attenuator is provided with a  
separate signal “LO” connection, for use in rejecting common-  
mode, the voltage between input and output grounds. Circuitry  
is included to provide rejection of up to ±100 mV.  
Apart from the small variations just discussed, the signal-to-  
noise (S/ N) ratio at the output is essentially independent of the  
attenuator setting, since the maximum undistorted output is 1 V  
rms and the NSD at the output of the AD600 is fixed at 113  
times 1.4 nV/Hz, or 158 nV/Hz. Thus, in a 1 MHz band-  
width, the output S/N ratio would be 76 dB. The input NSD of  
the AD600 and AD602 are the same, but because of the 10 dB  
lower gain in the AD602’s fixed amplifier, its output S/N ratio is  
10 dB better, or 86 dB in a 1 MHz bandwidth.  
The signal applied at the input of the ladder network is attenu-  
ated by 6.02 dB by each section; thus, the attenuation to each of  
the taps is progressively 0, 6.02, 12.04, 18.06, 24.08, 30.1, 36.12  
and 42.14 dB. A unique circuit technique is employed to inter-  
polate between these tap points, indicated by the “slider” in Fig-  
ure 1, providing continuous attenuation from 0 dB to 42.14 dB.  
–4–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
The Gain-Control Interface  
Common-Mode Rejection  
The attenuation is controlled through a differential, high imped-  
ance (15 M) input, with a scaling factor which is laser  
trimmed to 32 dB per volt, that is, 31.25 mV/dB. Each of the  
two amplifiers has its own control interface. An internal band-  
gap reference ensures stability of the scaling with respect to  
supply and temperature variations, and is the only circuitry  
common to both channels.  
A special circuit technique is used to provide rejection of volt-  
ages appearing between input grounds (A1LO and A2LO) and  
output grounds (A1CM and A2CM). This is necessary because  
of the “op amp” form of the amplifier, as shown in Figure 1.  
The feedback voltage is developed across the resistor RF1  
(which, to achieve low noise, has a value of only 20 ). The  
voltage developed across this resistor is referenced to the input  
common, so the output voltage is also referred to that node.  
When the differential input voltage VG = 0 V, the attenuator  
“slider” is centered, providing an attenuation of 21.07 dB, thus  
resulting in an overall gain of 20 dB (= –21.07 dB + 41.07 dB).  
When the control input is –625 mV, the gain is lowered by  
20 dB (= 0.625 × 32), to 0 dB; when set to +625 mV, the gain  
is increased by 20 dB, to 40 dB. When this interface is over-  
driven in either direction, the gain approaches either –1.07 dB  
(= –42.14 dB + 41.07 dB) or 41.07 dB (= 0 + 41.07 dB),  
respectively.  
To provide rejection of this common voltage, an auxiliary ampli-  
fier (not shown) is included, which senses the voltage difference  
between input and output commons and cancels this error  
component. Thus, for zero differential signal input between  
A1HI and A1LO, the output A1OP simply follows the voltage at  
A1CM. Note that the range of voltage differences which can ex-  
ist between A1LO and A1CM (or A2LO and A2CM) is limited  
to about ±100 mV. Figure 50 (one of the typical performance  
curves at the end of this data sheet) shows typical common-  
mode rejection ratio versus frequency.  
The gain of the AD600 can thus be calculated using the follow-  
ing simple expression:  
Gain (dB) = 32 VG + 20  
(1)  
ACHIEVING 80 dB GAIN RANGE  
The two amplifier sections of the X-AMP can be connected in  
series to achieve higher gain. In this mode, the output of A1  
(A1OP and A1CM) drives the input of A2 via a high-pass  
network (usually just a capacitor) that rejects the dc offset. The  
nominal gain range is now –2 dB to +82 dB for the AD600 or  
–22 dB to +62 dB for the AD602.  
where VG is in volts. For the AD602, the expression is:  
Gain (dB) = 32 VG + 10  
(2)  
Operation is specified for VG in the range from –625 mV dc to  
+625 mV dc. The high impedance gain-control input ensures  
minimal loading when driving many amplifiers in multiple-  
channel applications. The differential input configuration pro-  
vides flexibility in choosing the appropriate signal levels and  
polarities for various control schemes.  
There are several options in connecting the gain-control inputs.  
The choice depends on the desired signal-to-noise ratio (SNR)  
and gain error (output ripple). The following examples feature  
the AD600; the arguments generally apply to the AD602, with  
appropriate changes to the gain values.  
For example, the gain-control input can be fed differentially to  
the inputs, or single-ended by simply grounding the unused in-  
put. In another example, if the gain is to be controlled by a  
DAC providing a positive only ground referenced output, the  
“Gain Control LO” pin (either C1LO or C2LO) should be bi-  
ased to a fixed offset of +625 mV, to set the gain to 0 dB when  
“Gain Control HI” (C1HI or C2HI) is at zero, and to 40 dB  
when at +1.25 V.  
Sequential Mode (Maximum S/N Ratio)  
In the sequential mode of operation, the SNR is maintained at  
its highest level for as much of the gain control range possible,  
as shown in Figure 2. Note here that the gain range is 0 dB to  
80 dB. Figure 3 shows the general connections to accomplish  
this. Both gain-control inputs, C1HI and C2HI, are driven in  
parallel by a positive only, ground referenced source with a  
range of 0 V to +2.5 V.  
It is a simple matter to include a voltage divider to achieve other  
scaling factors. When using an 8-bit DAC having a FS output of  
+2.55 V (10 mV/bit) a divider ratio of 1.6 (generating 6.25 mV/  
bit) would result in a gain setting resolution of 0.2 dB/ bit.  
Later, we will discuss how the two sections of an AD600 or  
AD602 may be cascaded, when various options exist for gain  
control.  
85  
80  
75  
70  
65  
60  
55  
50  
45  
40  
35  
30  
Signal-Gating Inputs  
Each amplifier section of the AD600 and AD602 is equipped  
with a signal gating function, controlled by a TTL or CMOS  
logic input (GAT1 or GAT2). The ground references for these  
inputs are the signal input grounds A1LO and A2LO, respec-  
tively. Operation of the channel is unaffected when this input is  
LO or left open-circuited. Signal transmission is blocked when  
this input is HI. The dc output level of the channel is set to  
within a few millivolts of the output ground (A1CM or A2CM),  
and simultaneously the noise level drops significantly. The  
reduction in noise and spurious signal feedthrough is useful in  
ultrasound beam-forming applications, where many amplifier  
outputs are summed.  
–0.5  
0.0  
0.5  
1.0  
1.5  
2.0  
2.5  
3.0  
V
G
Figure 2. S/N Ratio vs. Control Voltage Sequential Control  
(1 MHz Bandwidth)  
REV. A  
–5–  
AD600/AD602  
A1  
A2  
–41.07dB  
–40.00dB  
OUTPUT  
0dB  
INPUT  
0dB  
–40.00dB  
C1HI C1LO  
–42.14dB  
C1HI C1LO  
1.07dB  
41.07dB  
41.07dB  
41.07dB  
41.07dB  
41.07dB  
41.07dB  
V
V
G2  
G1  
V
= 0.592V  
V
= 1.908V  
O1  
O2  
V
= 0V  
C
(a)  
–0.51dB  
–1.07dB  
OUTPUT  
40dB  
–0.51dB  
C1HI C1LO  
INPUT  
0dB  
–41.63dB  
C1HI C1LO  
40.56dB  
V
V
G2  
G1  
V
= 0.592V  
V
= 1.908V  
O1  
O2  
V
= 1.25V  
C
(b)  
0dB  
38.93dB  
OUTPUT  
80dB  
0dB  
INPUT  
0dB  
–2.14dB  
C1HI C1LO  
41.07dB  
C1HI  
C1LO  
V
V
G2  
G1  
V
O1  
= 0.592V  
V
= 1.908V  
O2  
V
= 25V  
C
(c)  
Figure 3. AD600 Gain Control Input Calculations for Sequential Control Operation  
The gains are offset (Figure 4) such that A2’s gain is increased  
only after A1’s gain has reached its maximum value. Note that  
for a differential input of –700 mV or less, the gain of a single  
amplifier (A1 or A2) will be at its minimum value of –1.07 dB;  
for a differential input of +700 mV or more, the gain will be at  
its maximum value of 41.07 dB. Control inputs beyond these  
limits will not affect the gain and can be tolerated without dam-  
age or foldover in the response. See the Specifications Section of  
this data sheet for more details on the allowable voltage range.  
The gain is now  
When VC is set to zero, VG1 = –0.592 V and the gain of A1 is  
+1.07 dB (recall that the gain of each amplifier section is 0 dB  
for VG = 625 mV); meanwhile, VG2 = –1.908 V so the gain of  
A2 is –1.07 dB. The overall gain is thus 0 dB (see Figure 3a).  
When VC = +1.25 V, VG1 = 1.25 V– 0.592 V = +0.658 V, which  
sets the gain of A1 to 40.56 dB, while VG2 = 1.25 V – 1.908 V =  
–0.658 V, which sets A2’s gain at –0.56 dB. The overall gain is  
now 40 dB (see Figure 3b). When VC = +2.5 V, the gain of A1  
is 41.07 dB and that of A2 is 38.93 dB, resulting in an overall  
gain of 80 dB (see Figure 3c). This mode of operation is further  
clarified by Figure 5, which is a plot of the separate gains of A1  
and A2 and the overall gain versus the control voltage. Figure 6  
is a plot of the gain error of the cascaded amplifiers versus the  
control voltage.  
Gain (dB) = 32 VC  
(3)  
where VC is the applied control voltage.  
+41.07dB  
Parallel Mode (Simplest Gain-Control Interface)  
40.56dB  
+38.93dB  
In this mode, the gain-control voltage is applied to both inputs  
in parallel—C1HI and C2HI are connected to the control volt-  
age, and C1LO and C2LO are optionally connected to an offset  
voltage of +0.625 V. The gain scaling is then doubled to 64 dB/  
V, requiring only 1.25 V for an 80 dB change of gain. The am-  
plitude of the gain ripple in this case is also doubled, as shown  
in Figure 7, and the instantaneous signal-to-noise ratio at the  
output of A2 decreases linearly as the gain is increased (Figure 8).  
A1  
A2  
20dB  
*
*
–0.56dB  
+1.07dB  
–1.07dB  
0.592  
1.908  
0
0
0.625  
20  
1.25  
40  
1.875  
60  
2.5  
80  
V (V)  
C
82.14  
GAIN  
(dB)  
Low Ripple Mode (Minimum Gain Error)  
–2.14  
As can be seen in Figures 6 and 7, the output ripple is periodic.  
By offsetting the gains of Al and A2 by half the period of the  
ripple, or 3 dB, the residual gain errors of the two amplifiers  
can be made to cancel. Figure 9 shows the much lower gain rip  
ple when configured in this manner. Figure 10 plots the S/N  
ratio as a function of gain; it is very similar to that in the “Par-  
allel Mode.”  
*GAIN OFFSET OF 1.07dB, OR 33.44mV  
Figure 4. Explanation of Offset Calibration for Sequential  
Control  
–6–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
75  
70  
65  
60  
55  
50  
45  
40  
35  
30  
90  
80  
70  
60  
50  
40  
30  
20  
10  
0
COMBINED  
A1  
A2  
–10  
–0.5  
0.0  
0.5  
1.0  
1.5  
2.0  
2.5  
3.0  
0.0  
0.2  
0.4  
0.6  
0.8  
1.0  
1.2  
1.4  
V
V
C
C
Figure 5. Plot of Separate and Overall Gains in Sequential  
Control  
Figure 8. SNR for Cascaded Stages—Parallel Control  
5
4
1.2  
1.0  
3
0.8  
2
0.6  
1
0.4  
0
0.2  
–1  
–2  
–3  
–4  
–5  
–6  
–7  
–8  
0.0  
–0.2  
–0.4  
–0.6  
–0.8  
–1.0  
–1.2  
–0.5  
0.0  
0.5  
1.0  
1.5  
2.0  
2.5  
3.0  
0.0 0.1 0.2 0.3 0.4 0.5 0.6 0.7 0.8 0.9 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3  
V
V
C
C
Figure 6. Gain Error for Cascaded Stages—Sequential  
Control  
Figure 9. Gain Error for Cascaded Stages—Low Ripple  
Mode  
5
4
80  
75  
70  
65  
60  
55  
50  
45  
40  
3
2
1
0
–1  
–2  
–3  
–4  
–5  
35  
0.0  
0.6  
0.8  
1.0  
1.2  
1.4  
–0.1  
0
0.2  
0.4  
0.6  
0.8  
1.0  
1.2  
0.2  
0.4  
V
V
C
C
Figure 10. ISNR vs. Control Voltage—Low Ripple Mode  
Figure 7. Gain Error for Cascaded Stages—Parallel  
Control  
REV. A  
–7–  
AD600/AD602  
APPLICATIONS  
Increasing Output Drive  
The full potential of any high performance amplifier can only be  
realized by careful attention to details in its applications. The  
following pages describe fully tested circuits in which many such  
details have already been considered. However, as is always true  
of high accuracy, high speed analog circuits, the schematic is  
only part of the story; this is no less true for the AD600 and  
AD602. Appropriate choices in the overall board layout and the  
type and placement of power supply decoupling components are  
very important. As explained previously, the input grounds  
A1LO and A2LO must use the shortest possible connections.  
The AD600/AD602’s output stage has limited capability for  
negative-load driving capability. For driving loads less than  
500 , the load drive may be increased by about 5 mA by con-  
necting a 1 kpull-down resistor from the output to the nega-  
tive supply (Figure 12).  
Driving Capacitive Loads  
For driving capacitive loads of greater than 5 pF, insert a 10 Ω  
resistor between the output and the load. This lowers the possi-  
bility of oscillation.  
The following circuits show examples of time-gain control for  
ultrasound and for sonar, methods for increasing the output  
drive, and AGC amplifiers for audio and RF/IF signal process-  
ing using both peak and rms detectors. These circuits also illus-  
trate methods of cascading X-AMPs for either maintaining the  
optimal S/N ratio or maximizing the accuracy of the gain-  
control voltage for use in signal measurement. These AGC cir-  
cuits may be modified for use as voltage-controlled amplifiers  
for use in sonar and ultrasound applications by removing the  
detector and substituting a DAC or other voltage source for  
supplying the control voltage.  
GAIN-CONTROL  
VOLTAGE  
C1LO  
A1HI  
C1HI  
1
16  
15  
14  
13  
12  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
2
3
V
IN  
A1  
A1LO  
GAT1  
+5V  
4
5
6
7
8
1k  
REF  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
–5V  
ADDED  
11 A2OP  
Time-Gain Control (TGC) and Time-Variable Gain (TVG)  
Ultrasound and sonar systems share a similar requirement: both  
need to provide an exponential increase in gain in response to a  
linear control voltage, that is, a gain control that is “linear in  
dB.” Figure 11 shows the AD600/AD602 configured for a con-  
trol voltage ramp starting at –625 mV and ending at +625 mV  
for a gain-control range of 40 dB. For simplicity, only the A1  
connections are shown. The polarity of the gain-control voltage  
may be reversed and the control voltage inputs C1HI and  
C1LO reversed to achieve the same effect. The gain-control  
voltage can be supplied by a voltage-output DAC such as the  
AD7242, which contains two complete DACs, operates from  
±5 V supplies, has an internal reference of 3 V, and provides  
±3 V of output swing. As such it is well-suited for use with the  
AD600/AD602, needing only a few resistors to scale the output  
voltage of the DACs to the levels needed by the AD600/AD602.  
A2  
PULL-DOWN  
RESISTOR  
A2CM  
10  
C2LO  
9
C2HI  
AD600  
Figure 12. Adding a 1 kPull-Down Resistor Increases the  
X-AMP’s Output Drive by About 5 mA. Only the A1 Con-  
nections Are Shown for Simplicity.  
Realizing Other Gain Ranges  
Larger gain ranges can be accommodated by cascading amplifi-  
ers. Combinations built by cascading two amplifiers include  
–20 dB to +60 dB (using one AD602), –10 dB to +70 dB (1/2  
of an AD602 followed by 1/2 of an AD600), and 0 dB to 80 dB  
(one AD600). In multiple-channel applications, extra protection  
against oscillations can be provided by using amplifier sections  
from different packages.  
CONTROL VOLTAGE,  
An Ultralow Noise VCA  
V
G
The two channels of the AD600 or AD602 may be operated in  
parallel to achieve a 3 dB improvement in noise level, providing  
1 nV/Hz without any loss of gain accuracy or bandwidth.  
VOLTAGE-OUTPUT  
+625mV  
0dB  
DAC  
40dB  
A1  
V
GAIN  
G
In the simplest case, as shown in Figure 13, the signal inputs  
A1HI and A2HI are tied directly together, the outputs A1OP  
and A2OP are summed via R1 and R2 (100 each), and the  
control inputs C1HI/C2HI and C1LO/C2LO operate in paral-  
lel. Using these connections, both the input and output resis-  
tances are 50 . Thus, when driven from a 50 source and  
terminated in a 50 load, the gain is reduced by 12 dB, so the  
gain range becomes –12 dB to +28 dB for the AD600 and  
–22 dB to +18 dB for the AD602. The peak input capability  
remains unaffected (1 V rms at the IC pins, or 2 V rms from an  
unloaded 50 source). The loading on each output, with a  
50 load, is effectively 200 , because the load current is  
shared between the two channels, so the overall amplifier still  
meets its specified maximum output and distortion levels for a  
200 load. This amplifier can deliver a maximum sine wave  
power of +10 dBm to the load.  
–625mV  
C1LO  
C1HI  
A1CM  
A1OP  
V+  
1
16  
15  
14  
13  
12  
A1HI  
A1LO  
GAT1  
2
3
A1  
4
5
6
7
8
+5V  
–5V  
REF  
V–  
GAT2  
11 A2OP  
10 A2CM  
A2LO  
A2HI  
A2  
C2LO  
C2HI  
9
AD600 or AD602  
Figure 11. The Simplest Application of the X-AMP Is as a  
TGC or TVG Amplifier in Ultrasound or Sonar. Only the A1  
Connections Are Shown for Simplicity.  
–8–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
GAIN-CONTROL  
VOLTAGE  
An inexpensive circuit, using complementary transistor types  
chosen for their low rbb, is shown in Figure 14. The gain is de-  
termined by the ratio of the net collector load resistance to the  
net emitter resistance, that is, it is an open-loop amplifier. The  
gain will be X2 (6 dB) only into a 100 load, assumed to be  
provided by the input resistance of the X-AMP; R2 and R7 are  
in shunt with this load, and their value is important in defining  
the gain. For small-signal inputs, both transistors contribute an  
equal transconductance, which is rendered less sensitive to sig-  
nal level by the emitter resistors R4 and R5, which also play a  
dominant role in setting the gain.  
V
G
C1LO  
A1HI  
C1HI  
1
16  
15  
14  
13  
12  
11  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
2
3
4
A1  
A1LO  
GAT1  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
100  
100Ω  
V
OUT  
+5V  
–5V  
V
REF  
A2  
IN  
5
6
7
8
50Ω  
A2OP  
A2CM  
C2HI  
10  
9
C2LO  
This is a Class AB amplifier. As VIN increases in a positive di-  
rection, Q1 conducts more heavily and its re becomes lower  
while that of Q2 increases. Conversely, more negative values of  
AD600 or AD602  
Figure 13. An Ultralow Noise VCA Using the AD600 or  
AD602  
V
IN result in the re Of Q2 decreasing, while that of Q1 increases.  
The design is chosen such that the net emitter resistance is es-  
sentially independent of the instantaneous value of VIN, result-  
ing in moderately low distortion. Low values of resistance and  
moderately high bias currents are important in achieving the low  
noise, wide bandwidth, and low distortion of this preamplifier.  
Heavy decoupling prevents noise on the power supply lines from  
being conveyed to the input of the X-AMP.  
A Low Noise, 6 dB Preamplifier  
In some ultrasound applications, the user may wish to use a  
high input impedance preamplifier to avoid the signal attenua-  
tion that would result from loading the transducer by the 100 Ω  
input resistance of the X-AMP. High gain cannot be tolerated,  
because the peak transducer signal is typically ±0.5 V, while the  
peak input capability of the AD600 or AD602 is only slightly  
more than ±1 V. A gain of two is a suitable choice. It can be  
shown that if the preamplifier’s overall referred-to-input (RTI)  
noise is to be the same as that due to the X-AMP alone (1.4 nV/  
Hz), then the input noise of a X2 preamplifier must be (3/4)  
times as large, that is, 1.2 nV/Hz.  
Table I. Measured Preamplifier Performance  
Measurement  
Value  
Unit  
Gain (f = 30 MHz)  
Bandwidth (–3 dB)  
Input Signal for  
1 dB Compression  
Distortion  
6
dB  
250  
MHz  
+5V  
1
V p-p  
R1  
49.9  
1µF  
V
IN = 200 mV p-p  
HD2  
HD3  
HD2  
HD3  
0.27  
0.14  
0.44  
0.58  
1.03  
%
%
%
%
R2  
174Ω  
VIN = 500 mV p-p  
Q1  
MRF904  
System Input Noise  
Spectral Density (NSD)  
(Preamp plus X-AMP)  
Input Resistance  
Input Capacitance  
Input Bias Current  
Power Supply Voltage  
Quiescent Current  
nV/Hz  
R3  
562Ω  
1µF  
1.4  
15  
±150  
±5  
kΩ  
pF  
µA  
V
0.1µF  
R4  
42.2Ω  
–5V  
+5V  
V
IN  
INPUT  
GROUND  
R5  
42.2Ω  
100Ω  
OF X AMP  
15  
mA  
R
0.1µF  
IN  
R6  
1µF  
562Ω  
A Low Noise AGC Amplifier with 80 dB Gain Range  
Figure 15 provides an example of the ease with which the  
AD600 can be connected as an AGC amplifier. A1 and A2 are  
cascaded, with 6 dB of attenuation introduced by the 100 Ω  
resistor R1, while a time constant of 5 ns is formed by C1 and  
the 50 of net resistance at the input of A2. This has the dual  
effect of (a) lowering the overall gain range from {0 dB to 80 dB}  
to {6 dB to 74 dB} and (b) introducing a single-pole low-pass  
filter with a –3 dB frequency of about 32 MHz. This ensures  
stability at the maximum gain for a slight reduction in the over-  
all bandwidth. The capacitor C4 blocks the small dc offset volt-  
age at the output of A1 (which might otherwise saturate A2 at  
its maximum gain) and introduces a high pass corner at about  
8 kHz, useful in eliminating low frequency noise and spurious  
signals which may be present at the input.  
OUTPUT  
GROUND  
Q2  
MM4049  
R7  
174Ω  
1µF  
R8  
49.9Ω  
–5V  
Figure 14. A Low Noise Preamplifier for the AD600 and  
AD602  
REV. A  
–9–  
AD600/AD602  
+5V  
R3  
46.4k  
+5V  
R4  
3.74kΩ  
300µA  
(at 300K)  
V '  
+5V  
G
AD590  
RF  
INPUT  
C1LO  
C1HI  
FB  
FB  
1
16  
15  
14  
13  
0.1µF  
0.1µF  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
A1HI  
A1LO  
GAT1  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
C2  
1µF  
2
3
+5V DEC  
–5V DEC  
C4  
0.1µF  
R1  
100Ω  
A1  
Q1  
2N3904  
+5V  
4
5
6
7
8
C1  
100pF  
DEC  
REF  
R2  
806Ω  
1%  
C3  
15pF  
–5V  
V
12  
11  
10  
9
PTAT  
DEC  
A2OP  
A2CM  
C2HI  
RF  
OUTPUT  
–5V  
A2  
POWER SUPPLY  
DECOUPLING NETWORK  
C2LO  
AD600  
Figure 15. This Accurate HF AGC Amplifier Uses Just Three Active Components  
A simple half-wave detector is used, based on Q1 and R2. The  
average current into capacitor C2 is just the difference between  
the current provided by the AD590 (300 µA at 300 K, 27°C)  
and the collector current of Q1. In turn, the control voltage VG  
is the time integral of this error current. When VG (and thus the  
gain) is stable, the rectified current in Q1 must, on average, ex-  
actly balance the current in the AD590. If the output of A2 is  
too small to do this, VG will ramp up, causing the gain to in-  
crease, until Q1 conducts sufficiently. The operation of this  
control system will now be described in detail.  
Since the average emitter current is 600 µA during each half-  
cycle of the square wave, a resistor of 833 would add a PTAT  
voltage of 500 mV at 300 K, increasing by 1.66 mV/°C. In prac-  
tice, the optimum value of R2 will depend on the transistor  
used, and, to a lesser extent, on the waveform for which the tem-  
perature stability is to be optimized; for the devices shown and  
sine wave signals, the recommended value is 806 . This resistor  
also serves to lower the peak current in Q1 and the 200 Hz LP  
filter it forms with C2 helps to minimize distortion due to ripple  
in VG. Note that the output amplitude under sine wave condi-  
tions will be higher than for a square wave, since the average  
value of the current for an ideal rectifer would be 0.637 times as  
large, causing the output amplitude to be 1.88 (= 1.2/0.637) V,  
or 1.33 V rms. In practice, the somewhat nonideal rectifier  
results in the sine wave output being regulated to about  
1.275 V rms.  
First, consider the particular case where R2 is zero and the out-  
put voltage VOUT is a square wave at, say, 100 kHz, that is, well  
above the corner frequency of the control loop. During the time  
VOUT is negative, Q1 conducts; when VOUT is positive, it is cut  
off. Since the average collector current is forced to be 300 µA, and  
the square wave has a 50% duty-cycle, the current when con-  
ducting must be 600 µA. With R2 omitted, the peak value of  
An offset of +375 mV is applied to the inverting gain-control  
inputs C1LO and C2LO. Thus the nominal –625 mV to  
+625 mV range for VG is translated upwards (at VG´) to –0.25 V  
for minimum gain to +1 V for maximum gain. This prevents Q1  
from going into heavy saturation at low gains and leaves suffi-  
cient “headroom” of 4 V for the AD590 to operate correctly at  
high gains when using a +5 V supply.  
VOUT would be just the VBE of Q1 at 600 µA (typically about  
700 mV) or 2 VBE peak-to-peak. This voltage, hence the ampli-  
tude at which the output stabilizes, has a strong negative tem-  
perature coefficient (TC), typically –1.7 mV/°C. While this may  
not be troublesome in some applications, the correct value of R2  
will render the output stable with temperature.  
To understand this, first note that the current in the AD590 is  
closely proportional to absolute temperature (PTAT). (In fact,  
this IC is intended for use as a thermometer.) For the moment,  
continue to assume that the signal is a square wave. When Q1 is  
conducting, VOUT is the now the sum of VBE and a voltage which  
is PTAT and which can be chosen to have an equal but opposite  
TC to that of the base-to-emitter voltage. This is actually noth-  
ing more than the “bandgap voltage reference” principle in  
thinly veiled disguise! When we choose R2 such that the sum of  
the voltage across it and the VBE of Q1 is close to the bandgap  
voltage of about 1.2 V, VOUT will be stable over a wide range of  
temperatures, provided, of course, that Q1 and the AD590  
share the same thermal environment.  
In fact, the 6 dB interstage attenuator means that the overall  
gain of this AGC system actually runs from –6 dB to +74 dB.  
Thus, an input of 2 V rms would be required to produce a 1 V  
rms output at the minimum gain, which exceeds the 1 V rms  
maximum input specification of the AD600. The available gain  
range is therefore 0 dB to 74 dB (or, X1 to X5000). Since the  
gain scaling is 15.625 mV/dB (because of the cascaded stages)  
the minimum value of VG´ is actually increased by 6 × 15.625 mV,  
or about 94 mV, to –156 mV, so the risk of saturation in Q1 is  
reduced.  
–10–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
+5V  
The emitter circuit of Q1 is somewhat inductive (due its finite ft  
and base resistance). Consequently, the effective value of R2 in-  
creases with frequency. This would result in an increase in the  
stabilized output amplitude at high frequencies, but for the ad-  
dition of C3, determined experimentally to be 15 pF for the  
2N3904 for maximum response flatness. Alternatively, a faster  
transistor can be used here to reduce HF peaking. Figure 16  
shows the ac response at the stabilized output level of about  
1.3 V rms. Figure 17 demonstrates the output stabilization for  
sine wave inputs of 1 mV to 1 V rms at frequencies of 100 kHz,  
1 MHz and 10 MHz  
300µA  
(at 300K)  
AD590  
TO AD600 PIN 16  
C2  
1µF  
Q1  
2N3904  
R2B  
C3  
15pF  
R2A  
V
R2 = R2A R2B 806Ω  
PTAT  
RF  
OUTPUT  
TO AD600 PIN 11  
Figure 18. Modification in Detector to Raise Output to  
2 V RMS  
A Wide Range, RMS-Linear dB Measurement System  
(2 MHz AGC Amplifier with RMS Detector)  
Monolithic rms-dc converters provide an inexpensive means to  
measure the rms value of a signal of arbitrary waveform, and  
they also may provide a low accuracy logarithmic (“decibel-  
scaled”) output. However, they have certain shortcomings. The  
first of these is their restricted dynamic range, typically only  
50 dB. More troublesome is that the bandwidth is roughly pro-  
portional to the signal level; for example, the AD636 provides a  
3 dB bandwidth of 900 kHz for an input of 100 mV rms, but  
has a bandwidth of only 100 kHz for a 10 mV rms input. Its  
logarithmic output is unbuffered, uncalibrated and not stable  
over temperature; considerable support circuitry, including at  
least two adjustments and a special high TC resistor, is required  
to provide a useful output.  
3dB  
0.1  
1
10  
FREQUENCY – MHz  
100  
Figure 16. AC Response at the Stabilized Output Level  
of 1.3 V RMS  
All of these problems can be eliminated using an AD636 as  
merely the detector element in an AGC loop, in which the differ-  
ence between the rms output of the amplifier and a fixed dc ref-  
erence are nulled in a loop integrator. The dynamic range and  
the accuracy with which the signal can be determined are now  
entirely dependent on the amplifier used in the AGC system.  
Since the input to the rms-dc converter is forced to a constant  
amplitude, close to its maximum input capability, the band-  
width is no longer signal dependent. If the amplifier has an ex-  
actly exponential (“linear-dB”) gain-control law, its control  
voltage VG is forced by the AGC loop to be have the general  
form:  
+0.2  
100kHz  
0
1MHz  
–0.2  
10MHz  
–0.4  
0.001  
0.01  
0.1  
1
INPUT AMPLITUDE – Volts RMS  
VIN(RMS )  
VREF  
VOUT =VSCALE log 10  
(4)  
Figure 17. Output Stabilization vs. RMS Input for  
Sine Wave Inputs at 100 kHz, 1 MHz, and 10 MHz  
Figure 19 shows a practical wide dynamic range rms-responding  
measurement system using the AD600. Note that the signal out-  
put of this system is available at A2OP, and the circuit can be  
used as a wideband AGC amplifier with an rms-responding de-  
tector. This circuit can handle inputs from 100 µV to 1 V rms  
with a constant measurement bandwidth of 20 Hz to 2 MHz,  
limited primarily by the AD636 rms converter. Its logarithmic  
output is a loadable voltage, accurately calibrated to 100 mV/dB,  
or 2 V per decade, which simplifies the interpretation of the  
reading when using a DVM, and is arranged to be –4 V for an  
input of 100 µV rms input, zero for 10 mV, and +4 V for a  
1 V rms input. In terms of Equation 4, VREF is 10 mV and  
While the “bandgap” principle used here sets the output ampli-  
tude to 1.2 V (for the square wave case), the stabilization point  
can be set to any higher amplitude, up to the maximum output  
of ± (VS – 2) V which the AD600 can support. It is only neces-  
sary to split R2 into two components of appropriate ratio whose  
parallel sum remains close to the zero-TC value of 806 . This  
is illustrated in Figure 18, which shows how the output can be  
raised, without altering the temperature stability.  
VSCALE is 2 V.  
REV. A  
–11–  
AD600/AD602  
V
RMS  
AF/RF  
OUTPUT  
C1  
C4  
0.1µF  
4.7µF  
+6V  
INPUT  
+6V DEC  
1V RMS  
MAX  
R1  
FB  
FB  
C1LO  
C1HI  
0.1µF  
0.1µF  
1
2
1
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
16  
15  
(SINE WAVE)  
115Ω  
VINP  
VPOS  
U2  
+6V DEC  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
A2OP  
A2CM  
C2HI  
A1HI  
2
3
NC  
NC  
NC  
NC  
AD636  
VNEG  
A1  
R2 200Ω  
A1LO  
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
3
4
–6V DEC  
–6V DEC  
GAT1  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
+6V DEC  
–6V DEC  
4
5
6
CAVG  
VLOG  
BFOP  
BFIN  
R7  
56.2kΩ  
REF  
C2  
R3  
R6  
5
6
NC  
NC  
COMM  
LDLO  
VRMS  
2µF  
133kΩ  
3.16kΩ  
–6V  
9
8
POWER SUPPLY  
A2  
DECOUPLING NETWORK  
7
8
7
C2LO  
U3A  
1/2  
9
+316.2mV  
U1 AD600  
U3B  
1/2  
C3  
AD712  
AD712  
R5  
1µF  
16.2kΩ  
V
G
V
OUT  
15.625mV/dB  
R4  
3.01kΩ  
+100mV/dB  
0V = 0dB (AT 10mV RMS)  
NC = NO CONNECT  
Figure 19. The Output of This Three-IC Circuit Is Proportional to the Decibel Value of the RMS Input  
Note that the peak “log output” of ±4 V requires the use of  
±6 V supplies for the dual op amp U3 (AD712) although lower  
supplies would suffice for the AD600 and AD636. If only ±5 V  
supplies are available, it will be either necessary to use a reduced  
value for VSCALE (say 1 V, in which case the peak output would  
be only ±2 V) or restrict the dynamic range of the signal to  
about 60 dB.  
Any difference in these voltages is integrated by the op amp  
U3B, with a time constant of 3 ms formed by the parallel sum of  
R6/R7 and C3. Now, if the output of the AD600 is too high, V  
rms will be greater than the “setpoint” of 316 mV, causing the  
output of U3B—that is, VOUT—to ramp up (note that the inte-  
grator is noninverting). A fraction of VOUT is connected to the  
inverting gain-control inputs of the AD600, so causing the gain  
to be reduced, as required, until V rms is exactly equal to  
316 mV, at which time the ac voltage at the output of A2 is  
forced to be exactly 316 mV rms. This fraction is set by R4 and  
R5 such that a 15.625 mV change in the control voltages of A1  
and A2—which would change the gain of the cascaded amplifi-  
ers by 1 dB—requires a change of 100 mV at VOUT. Notice here  
that since A2 is forced to operate at an output level well below  
its capacity, waveforms of high crest factor can be tolerated  
throughout the amplifier.  
As in the previous case, the two amplifiers of the AD600 are  
used in cascade. However, the 6 dB attenuator and low-pass fil-  
ter found in Figure 1 are replaced by a unity gain buffer ampli-  
fier U3A, whose 4 MHz bandwidth eliminates the risk of  
instability at the highest gains. The buffer also allows the use of  
a high impedance coupling network (C1/R3) which introduces a  
high-pass corner at about 12 Hz. An input attenuator of 10 dB  
(X0.316) is now provided by R1 + R2 operating in conjunction  
with the AD600’s input resistance of 100 . The adjustment  
provides exact calibration of the logarithmic intercept VREF in  
critical applications, but R1 and R2 may be replaced by a fixed  
resistor of 215 if very close calibration is not needed, since the  
input resistance of the AD600 (and all other key parameters of it  
and the AD636) are already laser trimmed for accurate opera-  
tion. This attenuator allows inputs as large as ±4 V to be ac-  
cepted, that is, signals with an rms value of 1 V combined with a  
crest factor of up to 4.  
To check the operation, assume an input of 10 mV rms is ap-  
plied to the input, which results in a voltage of 3.16 mV rms at  
the input to A1, due to the 10 dB loss in the attenuator. If the  
system operates as claimed, VOUT (and hence VG) should be  
zero. This being the case, the gain of both A1 and A2 will be  
20 dB and the output of the AD600 will therefore be 100 times  
(40 dB) greater than its input, which evaluates to 316 mV rms,  
the input required at the AD636 to balance the loop. Finally,  
note that unlike most AGC circuits, needing strong temperature  
compensation for the internal “kT/q” scaling, these voltages,  
and thus the output of this measurement system, are tempera-  
ture stable, arising directly from the fundamental and exact  
exponential attenuation of the ladder networks in the AD600.  
The output of A2 is ac coupled via another 12 Hz high-pass fil-  
ter formed by C2 and the 6.7 kinput resistance of the AD636.  
The averaging time constant for the rms-dc converter is deter-  
mined by C4. The unbuffered output of the AD636 (at Pin 8) is  
compared with a fixed voltage of +316 mV set by the positive  
supply voltage of +6 V and resistors R6 and R7. (VREF is pro-  
portional to this voltage, and systems requiring greater calibra-  
tion accuracy should replace the supply dependent reference  
with a more stable source.)  
Typical results are presented for a sine wave input at 100 kHz.  
Figure 20 shows that the output is held very close to the  
setpoint of 316 mV rms over an input range in excess of 80 dB.  
–12–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
(This system can, of course, be used as an AGC amplifier, in  
which the rms value of the input is leveled.) Figure 21 shows the  
“decibel” output voltage. More revealing is Figure 22, which  
shows that the deviation from the ideal output predicted by  
Equation 1 over the input range 80 µV to 500 mV rms is within  
±0.5 dB, and within ±1 dB for the 80 dB range from 80 µV to  
800 mV. By suitable choice of the input attenuator R1 + R2,  
this could be centered to cover any range from 25 mV to 250 mV  
to, say, 1 mV to 10 V, with appropriate correction to the value  
of VREF. (Note that VSCALE is not affected by the changes in the  
range.) The gain ripple of ±0.2 dB seen in this curve is the re-  
sult of the finite interpolation error of the X-AMP. Note that it  
occurs with a periodicity of 12 dB—twice the separation be-  
tween the tap points (because of the two cascaded stages).  
450  
425  
400  
375  
350  
325  
300  
275  
250  
225  
200  
This ripple can be canceled whenever the X-AMP stages are  
cascaded by introducing a 3 dB offset between the two pairs of  
control voltages. A simple means to achieve this is shown in  
Figure 23: the voltages at C1HI and C2HI are “split” by  
±46.875 mV, or ±1.5 dB. Alternatively, either one of these pins  
can be individually offset by 3 dB and a 1.5 dB gain adjustment  
made at the input attenuator (R1 + R2).  
175  
150  
C1HI  
1
2
3
16  
15  
VINP  
A1CM  
NC  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV  
100mV  
1V  
10V  
–6V  
A1OP  
VPOS  
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
INPUT SIGNAL –V RMS  
VNEG  
CAVG  
VLOG  
BFOP  
BFIN  
DEC  
U2  
AD636  
+6V DEC  
–6V DEC  
4
5
6
U1  
AD600  
C2  
VNEG  
A2OP  
A2CM  
C2HI  
Figure 20. The RMS Output of A2 Is Held Close to the  
“Setpoint” 316 mV for an Input Range of Over 80 dB  
NC  
NC  
2µF  
7
5
4
3
2
9
–46.875mV  
+46.875mV  
–6V  
DEC  
+6V  
DEC  
10kΩ  
78.7Ω  
78.7Ω  
10kΩ  
1
0
3dB OFFSET  
NC = NO CONNECT  
MODIFICATION  
–1  
–2  
–3  
Figure 23. Reducing the Gain Error Ripple  
The error curve shown in Figure 24 demonstrates that over the  
central portion of the range the output voltage can be main-  
tained very close to the ideal value. The penalty for this modifi-  
cation is the higher errors at the extremities of the range. The  
next two applications show how three amplifier sections can be  
cascaded to extend the nominal conversion range to 120 dB,  
with the inclusion of simple LP filters of the type shown in Fig-  
ure 15. Very low errors can then be maintained over a 100 dB  
range.  
–4  
–5  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV  
100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 21. The dB Output of Figure 19’s Circuit Is Linear  
Over an 80 dB Range  
2.5  
2.0  
1.5  
1.0  
2.5  
2.0  
1.5  
1.0  
0.5  
0
0.5  
0
–0.5  
–1.0  
–1.5  
–0.5  
–1.0  
–1.5  
–2.0  
–2.5  
–2.0  
–2.5  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV  
100mV  
1V  
10V  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV  
100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 22. Data from Figure 20 Presented as the Deviation  
from the Ideal Output Given in Equation 4  
Figure 24. Using the 3 dB Offset Network, the Ripple  
Is Reduced  
REV. A  
–13–  
AD600/AD602  
INPUT  
1V RMS  
MAX  
C1LO  
C1HI  
C1LO  
C1HI  
1
1
2
16  
15  
16  
15  
(SINE WAVE)  
R3  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
A2OP  
A2CM  
C2HI  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
A1HI  
2
A1HI  
R2  
C4  
C1  
200  
487Ω  
V
A1  
A1  
OUT  
A1LO  
3
A1LO  
2µF  
0.1µF  
U3A  
1/4  
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
3
4
GAT1  
4
GAT1  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
+5V DEC  
–5V DEC  
+5V DEC  
–5V DEC  
R1  
AD713  
REF  
A2  
REF  
A2  
GAT2  
5
133kΩ  
5
6
C2  
R5  
A2LO  
6
A2OP  
A2CM  
0.1µF  
1.58kΩ  
A2HI  
7
7
8
U3B  
1/4  
R4  
C3  
C2HI  
C2LO  
8
C2LO  
9
9
133kΩ  
220pF  
U1 AD600  
U2 AD600  
AD713  
+5V  
FB  
–2dB  
+2dB  
–62.5mV  
0dB  
+62.5mV  
0.1µF  
0.1µF  
–5V  
+5V  
+5V DEC  
R6  
R7  
R8  
R9  
10kΩ  
127Ω  
127Ω  
10kΩ  
–5V DEC  
FB  
C5  
22µF  
–5V  
POWER SUPPLY  
+5V DEC  
DECOUPLING NETWORK  
1
14  
VINP  
VPOS  
+5V DEC  
U4  
AD636  
NC  
13  
2
3
NC  
R11  
R15  
46.4kΩ  
12 NC  
11 NC  
VNEG  
–5V DEC  
19.6kΩ  
C6  
R10  
4
5
6
CAVG  
VLOG  
4.7µF  
3.16kΩ  
R16  
COMM 10  
NC  
NC  
Q1  
6.65kΩ  
2N3906  
R14  
9
8
BFOP  
BFIN  
LDLO  
301kΩ  
V
7
U3C  
1/4  
V
RMS  
LOG  
+316.2mV  
AD713  
R12  
11.3kΩ  
R13  
3.01kΩ  
NC = NO CONNECT  
Figure 25. RMS Responding AGC Circuit with 100 dB Dynamic Range  
100 dB to 120 dB RMS Responding Constant Bandwidth AGC  
Systems with High Accuracy dB Outputs  
remarkably low ±0.25 dB over the 108 dB range from 6 µV to  
1.5 V rms. However, with the gain offsets connected, the gain  
linearity remains under ±0.1 dB over the specified 100 dB range  
(Figure 28).  
The next two applications double as both AGC amplifiers and  
measurement systems. In both, precise gain offsets are used to  
achieve either (1) a very high gain linearity of ±0.1 dB over the  
full 100 dB range, or (2) the optimal signal-to-noise ratio at any  
gain.  
5
4
3
A 100 dB RMS/AGC System with Minimal Gain Error  
(Parallel Gain with Offset)  
2
Figure 25 shows an rms-responding AGC circuit, which can  
equally well be used as an accurate measurement system. It  
accepts inputs of 10 µV to 1 V rms (–100 dBV to 0 dBV) with  
generous overrange. Figure 26 shows the logarithmic output,  
1
0
–1  
–2  
–3  
–4  
–5  
V
LOG, which is accurately scaled 1 V per decade, that is,  
50 mV/dB, with an intercept (VLOG = 0) at 3.16 mV rms  
(–50 dBV). Gain offsets of ±2 dB have been introduced between  
the amplifiers, provided by the ±62.5 mV introduced by R6–R9.  
These offsets cancel a small gain ripple which arises in the  
X-AMP from its finite interpolation error, which has a period of  
18 dB in the individual VCA sections. The gain ripple of all  
three amplifier sections without this offset (in which case the  
gain errors simply add) is shown in Figure 27; it is still a  
1µV  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV 100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 26. VLOG Plotted vs. VIN for Figure 25‘s Circuit  
Showing 120 dB AGC Range  
–14–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
2.0  
1.5  
1.0  
0.5  
The rms value of VLOG is generated at Pin 8 of the AD636; the  
averaging time for this process is determined by C5, and the  
value shown results in less than 1% rms error at 20 Hz. The  
slowly varying V rms is compared with a fixed reference of  
316 mV, derived from the positive supply by R10/R11. Any dif-  
ference between these two voltages is integrated in C6, in con-  
junction with op amp U3C, the output of which is VLOG. A  
fraction of this voltage, determined by R12 and R13, is returned  
to the gain control inputs of all AD600 sections. An increase in  
0.1  
0
–0.1  
–0.5  
–1.0  
–1.5  
–2.0  
V
LOG lowers the gain, because this voltage is connected to the  
inverting polarity control inputs.  
Now, in this case, the gains of all three VCA sections are being  
varied simultaneously, so the scaling is not 32 dB/V but 96 dB/  
V, or 10.42 mV/dB. The fraction of VLOG required to set its  
scaling to 50 mV/dB is therefore 10.42/50, or 0.208. The result-  
ing full-scale range of VLOG is nominally ±2.5 V. This scaling  
was chosen to allow the circuit to operate from ±5 V supplies.  
Optionally, the scaling could be altered to 100 mV/dB, which  
would be more easily interpreted when VLOG is displayed on a  
DVM, by increasing R12 to 25.5 k. The full-scale output of  
±5 V then requires the use of supply voltages of at least ±7.5 V.  
1µV  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV 100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 27. Gain Error for Figure 25 Without the 2 dB  
Offset Modification  
2.0  
1.5  
1.0  
0.5  
A simple attenuator of 16.6 ± 1.25 dB is formed by R2/R3 and  
the 100 input resistance of the AD600. This allows the refer-  
ence level of the decibel output to be precisely set to zero for an  
input of 3.16 mV rms, and thus center the 100 dB range be-  
tween 10 µV and 1 V. In many applications R2/R3 may be re-  
placed by a fixed resistor of 590 . For example, in AGC  
applications, neither the slope nor the intercept of the logarith-  
mic output is important.  
0.1  
0
–0.1  
–0.5  
–1.0  
–1.5  
–2.0  
A few additional components (R14–R16 and Q1) improve the  
accuracy of VLOG at the top end of the signal range (that is, for  
small gains). The gain starts rolling off when the input to the  
first amplifier, U1A, reaches 0 dB. To compensate for this non-  
linearity, Q1 turns on at VLOG ~ +1.5 V and increases the feed-  
back to the control inputs of the AD600s, thereby needing a  
smaller voltage at VLOG to maintain the input to the AD636 to  
the setpoint of 316 mV rms.  
1µV  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV 100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 28. Adding the 2 dB Offsets Improves the  
Linearization  
The maximum gain of this circuit is 120 dB. If no filtering were  
used, the noise spectral density of the AD600 (1.4 nV/Hz)  
would amount to an input noise of 8.28 µV rms in the full band-  
width (35 MHz). At a gain of one million, the output noise  
would dominate. Consequently, some reduction of bandwidth is  
mandatory, and in the circuit of Figure 25 it is due mostly to a  
single-pole low-pass filter R5/C3, which provides a –3 dB fre-  
quency of 458 kHz, which reduces the worst-case output noise  
(at VAGC) to about 100 mV rms at a gain of 100 dB. Of course,  
the bandwidth (and hence output noise) could be easily reduced  
further, for example, in audio applications, merely by increasing  
C3. The value chosen for this application is optimal in minimiz-  
ing the error in the VLOG output for small input signals.  
A 120 dB RMS/AGC System with Optimal S/N Ratio  
(Sequential Gain)  
In the last case, all gains were adjusted simultaneously, resulting  
in an output signal-to-noise ratio (S/N ratio) which is always less  
than optimal. The use of sequential gain control results in a ma-  
jor improvement in S/N ratio, with only a slight penalty in the  
accuracy of VLOG, and no penalty in the stabilization accuracy of  
VAGC. The idea is simply to increase the gain of the earlier stages  
first (as the signal level decreases) and thus maintain the highest  
S/N ratio throughout the amplifier chain. This can be easily  
achieved with the AD600 because its gain is accurate even when  
the control input is overdriven; that is, each gaincontrol “win-  
dow” of 1.25 V is used fully before moving to the next amplifier  
to the right.  
The AD600 is dc-coupled, but even miniscule offset voltages at  
the input would overload the output at high gains, so high-pass  
filtering is also needed. To provide operation at low frequencies,  
two simple zeros at about 12 Hz are provided by R1/C1 and  
R4/C2; op amp sections U3A and U3B (AD713) are used to  
provide impedance buffering, since the input resistance of the  
AD600 is only 100 . A further zero at 12 Hz is provided by C4  
and the 6.7 kinput resistance of the AD636 rms converter.  
Figure 29 shows the circuit for the sequential control scheme.  
R6 to R9 with R16 provide offsets of 42.14 dB between the  
individual amplifiers to ensure smooth transitions between the  
gain of each successive X-AMP, with the sequence of gain  
increase being U1A first, then U1B, and lastly U2A. The adjust-  
able attenuator provided by R3 + R17 and the 100 input  
REV. A  
–15–  
AD600/AD602  
C1LO  
1
C1HI  
C1LO  
C1HI  
1
2
16  
15  
16  
15  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
A2OP  
A2CM  
C2HI  
A1CM  
A1OP  
VPOS  
VNEG  
A1HI  
2
A1HI  
R2  
C1  
C4  
100Ω  
V
A1  
A1  
OUT  
A1LO  
3
A1LO  
0.1µF  
2µF  
U3A  
1/4  
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
14  
13  
12  
11  
10  
3
4
GAT1  
4
GAT1  
GAT2  
A2LO  
A2HI  
+6V DEC  
–6V DEC  
+6V DEC  
–6V DEC  
R1  
AD713  
REF  
A2  
REF  
A2  
GAT2  
5
133kΩ  
5
6
C2  
R5  
A2LO  
6
A2OP  
A2CM  
0.1µF  
5.36kΩ  
A2HI  
7
7
8
U3B  
1/4  
R4  
C3  
0.001µF  
C2HI  
C2LO  
8
C2LO  
9
9
133kΩ  
U1 AD600  
U2 AD600  
AD713  
+6V  
R3  
R6  
R7  
R8  
R9  
R16  
R17  
INPUT  
200Ω  
3.4kΩ  
1k294Ω  
1k287Ω  
115Ω  
C5  
+6V  
22µF  
+6V DEC  
FB  
0.1µF  
0.1µF  
+6V DEC  
–6V DEC  
1
14  
13  
VINP  
VPOS  
U4  
NC  
2
3
NC  
R11  
AD636  
VNEG  
56.2kΩ  
FB  
12 NC  
–6V DEC  
C6  
R10  
11 NC  
4
5
6
CAVG  
VLOG  
4.7µF  
3.16kΩ  
–6V  
POWER SUPPLY  
DECOUPLING NETWORK  
10  
9
COMM  
LDLO  
NC  
NC  
BFOP  
BFIN  
+6V DEC  
R15  
V
7
U3C  
8
V
RMS  
LOG  
1/4  
5.11kΩ  
+316.2mV  
AD713  
R13  
R12  
R14  
NC = NO CONNECT  
866Ω  
1kΩ  
7.32kΩ  
Figure 29. 120 dB Dynamic Range RMS Responding Circuit Optimized for S/N Ratio  
5
resistance of U1A as well as the fixed 6 dB attenuation provided  
by R2 and the input resistance of U1B are included both to set  
4
3
V
LOG to read 0 dB when VIN is 3.16 mV rms and to center the  
100 dB range between 10 µV rms and 1 V rms input. R5 and  
C3 provide a 3 dB noise bandwidth of 30 kHz. R12 to R15  
change the scaling from 625 mV/decade at the control inputs to  
1 V/decade at the output and at the same time center the dy-  
namic range at 60 dB, which occurs if the VG of U1B is equal to  
zero. These arrangements ensure that the VLOG will still fit  
within the ±6 V supplies.  
2
1
0
–1  
–2  
–3  
–4  
–5  
Figure 30 shows VLOG to be linear over a full 120 dB range.  
Figure 31 shows the error ripple due to the individual gain func-  
tions which is bounded by ±0.2 dB (dotted lines) from 6 µV to  
2 V. The small perturbations at about 200 µV and 20 mV,  
caused by the impracticality of matching the gain functions per-  
fectly, are the only sign that the gains are now sequential. Fig-  
ure 32 is a plot of VAGC which remains very close to its set value  
of 316 mV rms over the full 120 dB range.  
1µV  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV 100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 30. VLOG Is Essentially Linear Over the Full 120 dB  
Range  
ratio relative to 0 dBV, this being almost the maximum output  
capability of the AD600. Results for the simultaneous mode can  
be seen in Figure 33. The S/ N ratio degreades uniformly as the  
gain is increased. Note that since the inverting gain control was  
used, the gain in this curve and in Figure 34 decreases for more  
positive values of the gain-control voltage.  
To more directly compare the signal-to-noise ratios in the  
“simultaneous” and “sequential” modes of operation, all inter-  
stage attenuation was eliminated (R2 and R3 in Figure 25, R2 in  
Figure 29), the input of U1A was shorted, R5 was selected to  
provide a 20 kHz bandwidth (R5 = 7.87 k), and only the gain  
control was varied, using an external source. The rms value of  
the noise was then measured at VOUT and expressed as an S/N  
–16–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
2.0  
1.5  
1.0  
In contrast, the S/N ratio for the sequential mode is shown in  
Figure 34. U1A always acts as a fixed noise source; varying its  
gain has no influence on the output noise. (This is a feature of  
the X-AMP technique.) Thus, for the first 40 dB of control  
range (actually slightly more, as explained below), when only  
this VCA section has its gain varied, the S/N ratio remains con-  
stant. During this time, the gains of U1B and U2A are at their  
minimum value of –1.07 dB.  
0.5  
0.2  
0
–0.2  
–0.5  
–1.0  
–1.5  
–2.0  
90  
80  
70  
60  
50  
40  
30  
20  
10  
1µV  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV 100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Figure 31. The Error Ripple Due to the Individual Gain  
Functions  
400  
350  
300  
250  
200  
0
–1.183 –0.558 0.067 0.692 1.317 1.942 2.567 3.192 3.817  
CONTROL VOLTAGE, V (31.25mV/dB) – Volts  
C
Figure 34. S/N Ratio vs. Control Voltage for Sequential  
Gain Control (Figure 29)  
For the next 40 dB of control range, the gain of U1A remains  
fixed at its maximum value of 41.07 dB and only the gain of  
U1B is varied, while that of U2A remains at its minimum value  
of –1.07 dB. In this interval, the fixed output noise of U1A is  
amplified by the increasing gain of U1B and the S/N ratio pro-  
gressively decreases.  
1µV  
10µV  
100µV  
1mV  
10mV 100mV  
1V  
10V  
INPUT SIGNAL – V RMS  
Once U1B reaches its maximum gain of 41.07 dB, its output  
also becomes a gain independent noise source; this noise is pre-  
sented to U2A. As the control voltage is further increased, the  
gains of both U1A and U1B remain fixed at their maximum  
value of 41.07 dB, and the S/N ratio continues to decrease. Fig-  
ure 34 clearly shows this, because the maximum S/N ratio of  
90 dB is extended for the first 40 dB of input signal before it  
starts to roll off.  
Figure 32. VAGC Remains Nose to Its Setpoint of  
316 mV RMS Over the Full 120 dB Range  
90  
80  
70  
60  
50  
40  
30  
20  
10  
0
This arrangement of staggered gains can be easily implemented  
because, when the control inputs of the AD600 are overdriven,  
the gain limits to its maximum or minimum values without side  
effects. This eliminates the need for awkward nonlinear shaping  
circuits that have previously been used to break up the gain  
range of multistage AGC amplifiers. It is the precise values of  
the AD600’s maximum and minimum gain (not 0 dB and  
40 dB but –1.07 dB and 41.07 dB) that explain the rather odd  
values of the offset values that are used.  
–833.2 –625.0 –416.6 –208.3  
208.3 416.6 625.0 833.2  
0
The optimization of the output S/N ratio is of obvious value in  
AGC systems. However, in applications where these circuit are  
considered for their wide range logarithmic measurements capa-  
bilities, the inevitable degradation of the S/N ratio at high gains  
need not seriously impair their utility. In fact, the bandwidth of  
the circuit shown in Figure 25 was specifically chosen so as to  
improve measurement accuracy by altering the shape of the log  
error curve (Figure 31) at low signal levels.  
CONTROL VOLTAGE, V (10.417mV/dB) – mV  
C
Figure 33. S/N Ratio vs. Control Voltage for Parallel Gain  
Control (Figure 25)  
REV. A  
–17–  
AD600/AD602–Typical Performance Characteristics  
0.45  
0.35  
10dB  
7dB  
20dB  
17dB  
0.25  
0.15  
0.05  
0°  
–45°  
–90°  
0°  
–45°  
–90°  
–0.05  
–0.15  
–0.25  
–0.35  
–0.45  
–0.7  
–0.5 –0.3 –0.1 0.1  
0.3  
0.5  
0.7  
100k  
1M  
10M  
100M  
100k  
1M  
10M  
100M  
GAIN CONTROL VOLTAGE – Volts  
FREQUENCY – Hz  
FREQUENCY – Hz  
Figure 35. Gain Error vs. Gain  
Control Voltage  
Figure 36. AD600 Frequency and  
Phase Response vs. Gain  
Figure 37. AD602 Frequency and  
Phase Response vs. Gain  
10.0  
–1.0  
–1.2  
–1.4  
–1.6  
–1.8  
–2.0  
–2.2  
–2.4  
–2.6  
–2.8  
–3.0  
–3.2  
V
=0V  
9.8  
9.6  
9.4  
9.2  
9.0  
8.8  
8.6  
8.4  
8.2  
8.0  
G
10dB/DIV  
CENTER  
FREQ 1MHz  
10kHz/DIV  
–3.4  
0
50  
100 200 500 1000 2000  
–0.7  
–0.5 –0.3 –0.1 0.1  
0.3  
0.5  
0.7  
LOAD RESISTANCE – Ω  
GAIN CONTROL VOLTAGE – Volts  
Figure 40. Typical Output Voltage  
vs. Load Resistance (Negative Out-  
put Swing Limits First)  
Figure 39. Third Order Intermodula-  
tion Distortion, VOUT = 2 V p-p,  
RL = 500 Ω  
Figure 38. AD600 and AD602  
Typical Group Delay vs. VC  
102  
6
5
GAIN=40dB  
101  
100  
99  
1V VOUT  
1µS  
4
AD600  
100  
90  
3
2
GAIN=20dB  
GAIN=0dB  
98  
OUTPUT  
AD602  
97  
1
96  
0
–1  
–2  
–3  
–4  
95  
10  
0%  
94  
INPUT  
1V VC  
93  
92  
100k  
–0.7  
–0.5 –0.3 –0.1 0.1  
0.3  
0.5  
0.7  
1M  
10M  
100M  
FREQUENCY – Hz  
GAIN CONTROL VOLTAGE – Volts  
Figure 43. Gain Control Channel  
Response Time. Top: Output Volt-  
age, 2 V max, Bottom: Gain Con-  
trol Voltage VC = ±625 mV  
Figure 42. Output Offset vs. Gain  
Control Voltage (Control Channel  
Feedthrough)  
Figure 41. Input Impedance vs.  
Frequency  
–18–  
REV. A  
AD600/AD602  
1V  
50mV  
50mV  
100  
90  
100  
90  
100  
90  
OUTPUT  
OUTPUT  
OUTPUT  
10  
10  
10  
0%  
0%  
0%  
INPUT  
INPUT  
5V  
5V  
100mV  
100nS  
100nS  
500nS  
INPUT  
Figure 44. Gating Feedthrough to  
Output, Gating Off to On  
Figure 45. Gating Feedthrough to  
Output, Gating On to Off  
Figure 46. Transient Response,  
Medium and High Gain  
500mV  
500mV  
1V  
100  
90  
100  
90  
100  
90  
OUTPUT  
OUTPUT  
OUTPUT  
10  
10  
10  
0%  
0%  
0%  
INPUT  
INPUT  
INPUT  
200mV  
1V  
1V  
200nS  
500nS  
500nS  
Figure 47. Input Stage Overload  
Recovery Time  
Figure 48. Output Stage Overload  
Recovery Time  
Figure 49. Transient Response  
Minimum Gain  
+10  
+20  
+10  
0
+10  
AD600: CH1 G=40dB, V =0  
IN  
AD600: G=20dB  
+5  
0
–10  
–20  
–30  
–40  
–50  
–60  
–70  
–80  
–90  
CH2 G=20dB, V =100mV  
IN  
AD602: G=10dB  
AD602: CH1 G=30dB, V =0  
IN  
0
–5  
BOTH:  
V
=100mV RMS  
CM  
CH2 G=10dB, V =316mV  
IN  
V =±5V  
AD600  
–10  
S
AD600  
BOTH:  
V
=1V RMS, R =50,  
S
OUT  
=500Ω  
R =500Ω  
R
L
L
T =25°C  
CH1 V  
–10  
–15  
–20  
–25  
–30  
–35  
–40  
–20  
OUT  
A
CROSSTALK=20log  
{
}
CH2 V  
IN  
–30  
AD602  
AD600  
–40  
AD600: G=40dB  
–50  
AD602  
AD602: G=30dB  
AD602  
10M  
–60  
–70  
–80  
BOTH:  
R
=500  
L
V
R
=0V  
IN  
=50Ω  
S
1k  
10k  
100k  
1M  
100M  
100k  
100k  
1M  
10M  
100M  
1M  
10M  
100M  
FREQUENCY — Hz  
FREQUENCY – Hz  
FREQUENCY – Hz  
Figure 50. CMRR vs. Frequency  
Figure 51. PSRR vs. Frequency  
Figure 52. Crosstalk Between A1  
and A2 vs. Frequency  
REV. A  
–19–  
AD600/AD602  
OUTLINE DIMENSIONS  
Dimensions shown in inches and (mm).  
16-Pin Plastic DIP (N-16) Package  
16  
1
9
0.25  
(6.35)  
0.31  
(7.87)  
8
0.87 (22.1) MAX  
0.035  
(0.89)  
0.18(4.57)  
MAX  
0.125  
(3.18)  
MIN  
0.18  
(4.57)  
0.011  
(0.28)  
0.3 (7.62)  
0.033 (0.84)  
0.1 (2.54)  
0.018 (0.46)  
16-Pin SOIC (R-16) Package  
16  
9
0.419  
0.299  
(10.65)  
(7.60)  
1
8
0.413  
(10.50)  
0.030  
(0.75)  
0.012  
(0.3)  
0.104  
(2.65)  
0.042  
(1.07)  
0.019  
(0.49)  
0.05 (1.27)  
REF  
0.013  
(0.32)  
16-Pin Cerdip (Q-16) Package  
0.005 (0.13) MIN  
0.080 (2.03) MAX  
16  
9
0.310 (7.87)  
0.220 (5.59)  
PIN 1  
8
1
0.320 (8.13)  
0.290 (7.37)  
0.840 (21.34) MAX  
0.060 (1.52)  
0.200  
0.015 (0.38)  
(5.08)  
MAX  
0.150  
(3.81)  
MIN  
0.015 (0.38)  
0.008 (0.20)  
0.200 (5.08)  
0.125 (3.18)  
15  
°
0
°
SEATING  
PLANE  
0.100  
(2.54)  
BSC  
0.070 (1.78)  
0.030 (0.76)  
0.023 (0.58)  
0.014 (0.36)  
–20–  
REV. A  

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