Ultrasound Pulse Controller Raises Integration Bar

Setting new benchmarks for integration in ultrasound pulse control, the STHV748 controller provides four independent channels, each of which generates precisely controlled high-voltage pulses to drive piezoelectric crystals or other transducers. The device integrates CMOS digital control logic, analog level translators, MOSFET gate drivers, and high-power N- and P-channel MOSFET output stages in a fully self-biasing architecture. Other features include operation from ±90V supplies, a ±2A source and sink current in pulse mode and continuous wave (CW) mode, a dedicated CW mode pulser, a jitter figure down to 20 ps, operating frequency up to 20 MHz, fully integrated clamp to ground, noise block diodes, anti-memory circuitry to improve beam forming accuracy, thermal protection, and a standby mode. Available in a lead-free QFN64 measuring 9 mm x 9 mm x 1 mm package, price for the STHV748 is $11.95 each/10,000. STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (888) 787-3550.