AD538 Real-Time Analog Computational Unit (ACU)

The AD538 is a monolithic real-time computational circuit which provides precision analog multiplication, division, and exponentiation. The combination of low input and output offset voltages and excellent linearity results in accurate computation over an unusually wide input dynamic range. Laser wafer trimming makes multiplication and division with errors as low as 0.25% of reading possible, while typical output offsets of 100 microV or less add to the overall off-the-shelf performance level. Real-time analog signal processing is further enhanced by the device's 400 kHz bandwidth.

The AD538's overall transfer function is Vo=Vy(Vz/Vx)m. Programming a particular function is via pin strapping. No external components are required for one-quadrant (positive input) multiplication and division. Two-quadrant (bipolar numerator) division is possible with the use of external level shifting and scaling resistors. The desired scale factor for both multiplication and division can be set using the on-chip +2 V or +10 V references, or controlled externally to provide simultaneous multiplication and division. Exponentiation with an M value from 0.2 to 5 can be implemented with the addition of one or two external resistors.

Direct log ratio computation is possible by utilizing only the log ratio and output sections of the chip. Access to the multiple summing junctions adds further to the AD538's flexibility. Finally, a wide power-supply range of ±4.5 V to ±18 V allows operation from standard ±5 V, ± 12 V and ± 15 V supplies.

The AD538 is available in two accuracy grades (A and B) over the industrial (-25°C to +85°C) temperature range and one grade (S) over the military (-55°C to +125°C) temperature range. The device is packaged in an 18-pin TO-118 hermetic size-brazed ceramic DIP. A-grade chips are also available.

Features and Benefits
  • VOUT = VY (VZ divided by VX)m Transfer Function
  • Wide Dynamic Range (Denominator) -1000:1
  • Simultaneous Multiplication and Division
  • Resistor-Programmable Powers and Roots
  • No External Trims Required
  • Low Input Offsets <100 µV
  • Low Error ±0.25% of Reading (100:1 Range)
  • +2 V and +10 V On-Chip References
  • Monolithic Construction
Linear Products
Data Sheets
Documentnote
AD538: Real-Time Analog Computational Unit Data Sheet (Rev. E)PDF 167 kB
Application Notes
Documentnote
AN-213: Low Cost, Two-Chip, Voltage -Controlled Amplifier and Video SwitchPDF 391 kB
AN-304: One Chip "Slide-Rule" Works With Logs, Antilogs for Real Time ProcessingPDF 563 kB
Order Information
Part NumberPackagePacking QtyTemp RangePrice 100-499Price 1000+RoHS
AD538ACHIPS ProductionCHIPS OR DIEREEL 49-25 to 85C024.71Y
AD538AD Production18 ld Side-Brazed CerDIPOTH 20-25 to 85C56.4951.06N
AD538ADZ Production18 ld Side-Brazed CerDIPOTH 20-25 to 85C38.1834.52Y
AD538BD Production18 ld Side-Brazed CerDIPOTH 20-25 to 85C68.2961.75N
AD538BDZ Production18 ld Side-Brazed CerDIPOTH 20-25 to 85C46.1641.73Y
AD538SD Production18 ld Side-Brazed CerDIPOTH 20-55 to 125C111.49111.49N
AD538SD/883B Production18 ld Side-Brazed CerDIPOTH 20-55 to 125C90.7782.05N
AD538: Real-Time Analog Computational Unit Data Sheet (Rev. E) ad538
AN-213: Low Cost, Two-Chip, Voltage -Controlled Amplifier and Video Switch adv7202
AN-304: One Chip "Slide-Rule" Works With Logs, Antilogs for Real Time Processing ad538