LMH0384SQE/NOPB

Texas Instruments LMH0384SQE/NOPB — 3G/HD/SD SDI Adaptive Cable Equalizer (16‑WQFN)

The Texas Instruments LMH0384SQE/NOPB is a single‑channel, adaptive cable equalizer designed for professional serial digital video infrastructures. Built for SMPTE‑compliant 3G‑SDI, HD‑SDI, and SD‑SDI links, it delivers extended‑reach equalization and dependable operation across the industrial temperature range in a compact 16‑WQFN package. This device fits broadcast routers, distribution amplifiers, cameras, monitors, and any SDI node that needs robust cable loss compensation without adding engineering risk.

At a Glance

• Brand/Manufacturer: Texas Instruments
• MPN: LMH0384SQE/NOPB
• Series: LMH
• Category: SDI Cable Equalizers / Video ICs
• Function: Single‑channel adaptive cable equalizer
• Supported standards: SMPTE 424M (3G‑SDI), 292M (HD‑SDI), 259M (SD‑SDI)
• Max data rate: Up to 2.97 Gbps (3G‑SDI)
• Package: 16‑WQFN (surface‑mount)
• Temperature range: −40°C to +85°C
• Pin count: 16
• Packaging: Tape & Reel

Why it matters: As SDI links scale in length and routing complexity, coax attenuation and dispersion threaten eye integrity and bit error rate. The LMH0384SQE/NOPB brings adaptive equalization to the front end of your SDI path, restoring high‑frequency content and improving link margin so your downstream reclockers, serializers, or FPGAs see cleaner data.

Overview

Engineered for SMPTE serial digital video, the Texas Instruments LMH0384SQE/NOPB targets 3G‑SDI (2.97 Gbps), HD‑SDI, and SD‑SDI transport. The device’s adaptive equalization automatically compensates for frequency‑dependent cable loss, helping maintain compliance over a broad set of coax runs and deployment scenarios. Housed in a 16‑lead WQFN and rated for −40°C to +85°C operation, it supports space‑constrained broadcast gear and field‑deployed equipment where reliability and thermal headroom matter.

Key value points for engineering and sourcing teams:

• Standards‑anchored design: Compatibility with SMPTE 424M/292M/259M reduces integration uncertainty and accelerates compliance testing.
• Extended‑reach equalization: Enhances link robustness on long or aging coax cables (reach is implementation‑dependent; consult the datasheet for design guidelines).
• Industrial temperature rating: Suitable for studio racks, OB vans, and equipment rooms with variable ambient conditions.
• Compact package: 16‑WQFN simplifies dense layouts in routers, multiviewers, and camera back‑ends.

Key Specifications

• Brand: Texas Instruments
• MPN: LMH0384SQE/NOPB
• Series: LMH
• Category: SDI Cable Equalizers / Video ICs
• Function: Adaptive cable equalizer
• Standards: SMPTE 424M (3G‑SDI), SMPTE 292M (HD‑SDI), SMPTE 259M (SD‑SDI)
• Maximum data rate: Up to 2.97 Gbps (3G‑SDI)
• Channels: 1
• Package: 16‑WQFN
• Mounting: Surface Mount
• Operating temperature: −40°C to +85°C
• Pin count: 16
• Packaging: Tape & Reel

Not specified in datasheet (in provided data):

• Supply voltage and rails
• Power consumption (idle/active)
• Equalization range (cable length)
• Jitter performance and eye mask margins
• ESD ratings

Where details are critical for your design, verify directly in the TI datasheet and product page linked below.

Standards and Compliance

The LMH0384SQE/NOPB is intended for SDI video links compliant with:

• SMPTE 424M (3G‑SDI)
• SMPTE 292M (HD‑SDI)
• SMPTE 259M (SD‑SDI)

This alignment with SMPTE specifications helps ensure interoperability in mixed‑vendor broadcast infrastructures and reduces the risk of non‑compliant signal characteristics at key router, DA, or monitoring interfaces.

Environmental and materials compliance:

• RoHS/Environmental status: Not specified in datasheet. The “/NOPB” suffix from Texas Instruments typically denotes lead‑free; however, always confirm official RoHS/REACH status on the TI product page or compliance documents before release to manufacturing.

Applications

• Broadcast video routers and switchers
• Distribution amplifiers and equalizing stages
• Cameras and camera control units (CCUs)
• Monitors and professional displays
• Video servers, recorders, ingest, and playout systems
• Any SDI node requiring cable loss compensation ahead of reclocking or deserialization

Why this device is a good fit:

• Adaptive equalization can stabilize link performance across different cable types, lengths, and installation ages.
• Broad SDI standards support simplifies using a single equalizer across SD, HD, and 3G workflows.
• Compact WQFN package aids in miniaturized designs without compromising temperature range.

Design and Integration Notes

The following integration practices are common in SDI front ends and can help you get to first‑pass success. Always defer to the TI datasheet for device‑specific recommendations and reference schematics.

Board‑level signal integrity:

• Maintain 75‑ohm impedance for SDI paths from the connector through the equalizer I/O network.
• Keep the high‑speed path short and direct; avoid unnecessary vias and stubs.
• Provide solid return paths under SDI traces; manage reference plane transitions carefully to minimize discontinuities.

I/O conditioning:

• SDI systems commonly use AC coupling and proper termination at the receiver input. Follow TI’s recommended application circuits for coupling capacitor values and terminations.
• If your architecture includes a downstream reclocker or deserializer, place it close to the equalizer output to minimize post‑equalization trace loss.

Power and grounding:

• Decouple each power pin close to the package with low‑ESL capacitors. Provide bulk capacitance per rail as guided by the datasheet.
• Partition analog and digital grounds as recommended by TI; tie at the designated point if specified.

Thermal and mechanical:

• 16‑WQFN enables compact layouts. If the package includes an exposed thermal pad, observe the datasheet’s land pattern, via array, and solder recommendations to ensure thermal and mechanical reliability.

EMI/EMC and protection:

• Maintain clean return paths and consistent impedance to mitigate radiated and conducted emissions.
• At SDI connectors, system‑level ESD and surge protection may be required depending on the deployment environment. Select protection devices compatible with 3G‑SDI bandwidths.

Validation strategy:

• Use a PRBS source or standard SDI pattern generator and a compliant SDI analyzer or scope with an SDI compliance package to verify eye opening and jitter at 2.97 Gbps, 1.485 Gbps, and 270 Mbps as applicable.
• Validate equalizer performance with the cable types and lengths representative of your real deployment to confirm margin.

Packaging, Handling, and Manufacturing

• Package: 16‑WQFN
• Mounting: Surface mount
• Packaging format: Tape & Reel (supports automated SMT assembly)

Manufacturing notes:

• Adhere to the TI‑provided land pattern, solder paste, and reflow guidelines in the datasheet.
• Moisture sensitivity level (MSL) is not specified in the provided data; check the datasheet and product page for MSL and baking requirements prior to assembly.
• For automated optical inspection, ensure sufficient courtyard and silkscreen indicators around the QFN outline per your factory’s DFM standards.

Lifecycle, Availability, and Replacements

• Lifecycle status: Not specified (verify on the Texas Instruments product page).
• Manufacturer: Texas Instruments
• OCM source: Texas Instruments
• Direct replacements: None listed in the provided data.
• Approved alternates: None listed in the provided data.

Sourcing notes:

• Inventory quantity in the provided dataset: 0. If you require immediate coverage, consider scheduling deliveries, placing a forecast, or contacting authorized TI distributors for lead‑time options.
• If your requirements vary (e.g., different features or integration level), consider reviewing other devices in TI’s LMH family via the TI parametric search. Validate pinout and performance differences before treating any device as a drop‑in.

Why Choose Texas Instruments LMH0384SQE/NOPB for Your SDI Build?

• Standards‑driven confidence: Designed around SMPTE 424M/292M/259M, aligning with real‑world broadcast infrastructure.
• Broad application range: From compact camera modules to high‑density routers, the 16‑WQFN helps conserve board area while maintaining industrial temperature operation.
• Risk reduction: Adaptive equalization at the front end of your SDI path improves signal margins before reclocking or processing, helping reduce intermittent field issues caused by marginal cabling.
• Procurement alignment: The /NOPB suffix is commonly associated with lead‑free builds at TI (confirm RoHS status officially), and Tape & Reel packaging supports automated, high‑volume SMT lines.

Specifications Summary

• Device type: Adaptive cable equalizer
• SDI data rates: Up to 2.97 Gbps (3G‑SDI), with HD‑SDI and SD‑SDI compatibility
• Channels: 1
• Package/case: 16‑WQFN
• Mounting: Surface Mount
• Operating temperature: −40°C to +85°C
• Standards: SMPTE 424M, 292M, 259M
• Series: LMH

Parameters not specified in datasheet (in provided data) and should be verified as needed:

• Supply voltage and current consumption
• Equalization reach (cable type and length)
• Input/output voltage levels
• Jitter transfer and output jitter specs
• ESD and latch‑up ratings
• MSL and packaging moisture requirements

Sourcing and Procurement Guidance

• Part number to order: LMH0384SQE/NOPB (verify any ordering suffixes for packaging or temperature grade variations).
• Packaging: Tape & Reel for efficient placement.
• Availability: Not provided; check authorized distributors and TI’s product page for current lead times and stock.
• Compliance documentation: Review TI’s product page for RoHS/REACH certifications and material content declarations before AVL approval.
• Lifecycle risk: Confirm active status and long‑term supply outlook directly with Texas Instruments or authorized channel partners when designing into long‑lived platforms.

Practical tips:

• Lock down the exact package option (including any thermal pad requirements) early in the PCB cycle to avoid footprint revisions.
• If your build plan includes second sources, document acceptable alternates at the system level (e.g., different equalizer plus revised passives/layout) since no direct alternates are listed in the provided data.

Resources

• Texas Instruments product page: https://www.ti.com/product/LMH0384
• Texas Instruments datasheet: https://www.ti.com/lit/ds/symlink/lmh0384.pdf

Use these links to obtain the latest specifications, packaging details, compliance documentation, and application guidance.

FAQs

Q: What SDI rates does the Texas Instruments LMH0384SQE/NOPB support?
A: It supports SD‑SDI, HD‑SDI, and 3G‑SDI up to 2.97 Gbps as defined by SMPTE 259M, 292M, and 424M.

Q: What package is the LMH0384SQE/NOPB supplied in?
A: A 16‑lead WQFN package suitable for surface‑mount assembly.

Q: What is the operating temperature range?
A: −40°C to +85°C (industrial).

Q: How many channels are integrated?
A: One channel.

Q: Is the device RoHS compliant?
A: RoHS/Environmental status is not specified in the provided datasheet information. The “/NOPB” suffix typically indicates a lead‑free variant at TI; verify official RoHS/REACH status on the TI product page.

Q: Does the LMH0384SQE/NOPB include a reclocker?
A: Not specified in datasheet (in the provided data). Consult the TI datasheet to determine if a separate reclocker is required for your application.

Q: Are equalization reach and cable length limits specified?
A: Not in the provided data. Actual reach depends on cable type and system implementation; refer to the datasheet and validate in your target environment.

Q: Where can I find the latest specifications and ordering information?
A: Refer to the TI product page and datasheet listed in the Resources section for current information, compliance documents, and any ordering notes.

Texas Instruments LMH0384SQE/NOPB combines SMPTE standards support with adaptive equalization in a compact, industrial‑grade QFN, making it a strong choice for robust 3G/HD/SD SDI designs where link margin and reliability are non‑negotiable.