SSM2018PZ

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Overview

The SSM2018PZ is a trimless voltage controlled amplifier (VCA) from Analog Devices Inc., housed in a 16-lead plastic DIP package. It operates over an extended industrial temperature range of −40°C to +85°C with supply voltages ranging from ±5 V to ±18 V. The device features a 140 dB gain range, 117 dB dynamic range, and typical THD+N of 0.006% at unity gain. It includes differential inputs, complementary gain outputs, and an internal I–V converter.

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Feature Summary

• Laser trimmed for gain core symmetry and offset to eliminate the need for external trimming potentiometers.
• Combines Class AB low noise characteristics with Class A circuit low distortion through careful gain core layout.
• Features an internal current-to-voltage converter requiring no external active components.

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Applications

• Volume control systems in professional audio equipment
• Operational Voltage Controlled Element (OVCE) circuits
• Voltage controlled panner configurations

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity as this part is obsolete. Confirm pin compatibility if replacing older SSM2018 variants that required external trimming. Ensure ordering suffix matches the 16-lead PDIP package specification. Check datasheet revisions for any updates to absolute maximum ratings or thermal resistance values before integration.

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring high linearity and low distortion without manual calibration. It is suitable for designs needing differential inputs and complementary outputs. Consider the −3500 ppm/°C gain constant temperature drift; implement external temperature compensation using TCRs if stable gain is required across wide temperature variations.

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Part Context

The SSM2018 represents an evolution of the Frey Operational Voltage Controlled Element topology. It is designed to replace older VCA models that required external trimming for optimal performance. The device integrates the necessary circuitry for high-performance volume control directly into the silicon, reducing system complexity and manufacturing costs associated with manual adjustment.

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacement for the original SSM2018. When upgrading sockets, remove external trimming potentiometers used for symmetry and offset in legacy designs.

Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps FAQ

Does the SSM2018 require external trimming?

No, the SSM2018 is laser trimmed at the factory for gain core symmetry and offset, eliminating the need for external trimming potentiometers.

What operating modes are supported?

The device supports both Class A and Class AB operation. It is optimized for Class AB biasing to ensure conformance to specified THD performance.