The TDF8546 is one of a new generation of complementary quad Bridge-Tied Load (BTL)
audio power amplifiers intended for automotive applications. It has a best efficiency mode
with full I2C-bus controlled diagnostics, including start-up diagnostics. The TDF8546 can
operate at a battery voltage as low as 6 V making this amplifier suitable for stop/start-car
operation.
The new best efficiency principle uses a switch technique which reduces
switching distortion. To reduce power dissipation, the new best efficiency principle uses
the audio information on all four channels instead of only the front or rear signals.
Dissipation is more than 65 % less than standard BTL when used for front and rear
correlated audio signals. Dissipation is 35 % less than standard BTL when used for
uncorrelated (delayed) audio signals between front and rear, and 17 % less for
uncorrelated audio signals when the front or rear information is used.
The amplifier uses a complementary DMOS output stage in a Silicon-On-Insulator (SOI)-
based BCD process. The DMOS output stage ensures a high power output signal with
perfect sound quality. The SOI-based BCD process ensures a robust amplifier, where
latch-up cannot occur, with good separation between the four independent channels, with
every component isolated and without substrate currents.