THS6301: Line driver selection for thousands of feet of twisted pair

Part Number: THS6301
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: DRV135, THS6222, THS6232

Tool/software:

I want to drive a 1Khz modulated sine wave over several thousand feet of unshielded twisted pair cable (around 200Ohm differential impedance). This input signal is common mode, and not audio. I'm concerned about picking a solution that can handle rough conditions on the cable like lightning, shorts, ESD, or cable disconnect kickback. Do you think a part like the THS6301 would work for this or should I be looking at something like the DRV135 balanced line driver?

Thank you.

  • Hello Eric,

    The THS6301 is a good choice for wireline cable driving if your signal needs are differential.  I would like to confirm you are using both conductors of the UTP cable as a differential signal?  The THS630x family of devices do have details on how to add surge protection in their datasheets.  

    We also have differential line drivers for powerline communication, such as THS6222 and THS6232.  Both of these devices undergo surge testing and have before/after plots of the out-of-band suppression (a spec for the difference in dBc between signal band and noise band).

    The THS6232 may be a good option for your design; you can parallel multiple devices to drive a heavier differential load or provide more output current drive (ie for distance).  With a higher supply voltage rating, the THS6232 also allows for greater output swing, which can improve SNR.

    Would you be able to share a block diagram or circuit representation of your system?  I am curious if you are needing to use a transformer or another form of coupling between your line driver amplifier and the cabling.  I can assist with design notes or review once you have a system idea.

    Best,

    Alec