Low-cost, integrated, powerline communications (PLC) analog front-end for driving low-impedance line

The AFE032 is a low-cost, integrated, power-line communications (PLC), analog front-end (AFE) device capable of transformer-coupled connections to the power-line while under the control of a digital signal processor (DSP) or microcontroller. This device is ideal for driving high-current, low-impedance lines up to 1.9 A into reactive loads.

The integrated receiver is able to detect signals down to 10 µVRMS (G3-FCC mode) and is capable of a wide range of gain options to adapt to varying input-signal conditions. The monolithic integrated circuit provides high reliability in demanding power-line communication applications.

The AFE032 transmit power amplifier operates from a single supply in the range of 7 V to 24 V. At typical load current (IOUT = 1.5 APEAK), a wide output swing provides a 12-VPP capability with a nominal 15-V supply.

The device is internally protected against overtemperature and short-circuit conditions. The device also provides a selectable current limit. An interrupt output is provided, indicating current limit, thermal limit, and undervoltage. A shutdown pin is also available, and can be used to quickly place the device into the lowest-power state. Each functional block can be enabled or disabled to optimize power dissipation through the serial peripheral interface (SPI).

The AFE032 is housed in a thermally-enhanced, surface-mount, PowerPAD, QFN-48 package. Operation is specified over the extended industrial junction temperature range of –40°C to +125°C.