Broadcom Limited AFBR-1528CZ

Overview

AFBR-1528CZ from Broadcom is an analog fiber optic transmitter using a 650-nm LED source, designed for DC–10 Mbaud signal transmission over 1-mm polymer optical fiber (POF) or 200-µm plastic-clad silica (PCS), with guaranteed operation up to +95°C and ≥58 m link distance on POF. It serves as the optical front-end in isolated serial links requiring high-voltage galvanic separation and ground-loop elimination.

For engineers reviewing the AFBR-1528CZ datasheet, pinout, applications, or equivalent options, this component is selected for industrial fieldbus isolation, RS-232/485 extension, and board-to-board optical interconnects where ESD robustness (±2000 V HBM), Class 1 eye safety compliance, and Versatile Link mechanical interoperability are critical design requirements.

Technical Context

The AFBR-1528CZ operates as a current-driven analog LED transmitter: input data modulates forward current (IF,AVG = 3–30 mA) to emit optical pulses into POF or PCS fiber, with optical rise/fall times of 3–20 ns and peak output power ranging from –16 dBm (3 mA) to –1 dBm (30 mA) on 1-mm POF. Its spectral emission (630–685 nm, FWHM = 20 nm) and temperature-stable wavelength drift (0.16 nm/K) ensure consistent coupling efficiency across –40°C to +95°C.

It forms a matched pair with the inverting digital receiver AFBR-2528CZ; the transmitter's analog output requires no internal signal conditioning, while its horizontal Versatile Link housing enables N-plexed stacking and compatibility with simplex/duplex fiber connectors. The device uses two functional pins (Anode, Cathode) and two GND-recommended pins, housed in a flame-retardant, moisture-sensitive package with defined wave-soldering constraints (260°C peak, ≤10 s).

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The AFBR-1528CZ uses a horizontal Versatile Link housing - flame-retardant, stackable, dust-resistant, and compatible with snap-action simplex/duplex connectors. Dimensions: 18.8 × 7.7 × 3.8 mm (L×W×H), with 4 electrical pins (pins 1–4) and 2 mounting pins (5 & 8). Fiber port faces front; pins face downward; pin 1 is rightmost.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar analog fiber optic transmitter applications.

Compared with HFBR-1528Z and AFBR-1521CZ, the AFBR-1528CZ uniquely guarantees full 10-Mbaud performance at +95°C with dual-fiber (POF/PCS) qualification, making it the only option for thermally demanding, long-distance, or mixed-fiber infrastructure designs.

Availability

AFBR-1528CZ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial control systems, factory automation networks, and high-voltage isolation circuits requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle continuity, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for AFBR-1528CZ includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Broadcom Inc. is a global semiconductor leader specializing in wired and wireless communications, enterprise storage, and optical interconnect solutions, with R&D centers across North America, Asia, and Europe.

The AFBR-1528CZ belongs to Broadcom's Versatile Link family - engineered specifically for rugged, easy-to-integrate fiber optic isolation in industrial, automotive, and energy infrastructure applications where reliability, safety, and mechanical interoperability are non-negotiable.

FAQ

What is the maximum operating temperature guaranteed for full performance of the AFBR-1528CZ?

The AFBR-1528CZ guarantees full optical link performance - including ≥20 mA forward peak current and 10-Mbaud signaling - across –40°C to +95°C ambient. This is explicitly stated in the datasheet (pub-005757) and validated for both 1-mm POF and 200-µm PCS fiber types. Operation beyond +95°C may degrade output power and reliability.

Does the AFBR-1528CZ require an external driver circuit, and what are the key interface requirements?

Yes, the AFBR-1528CZ requires an external current-driving circuit - typically a transistor-based switch or logic-gated current source - because it is an LED-based analog transmitter. Key interface requirements include limiting average forward current to ≤30 mA, peak current to ≤45 mA, and reverse voltage to ≤3 V. The recommended drive circuit (Figure 4 in pub-005757) uses CD74ACT08M logic and precision resistors to achieve clean 10-Mbaud edges.

Is the AFBR-1528CZ pin-compatible with other Versatile Link transmitters like the AFBR-1521CZ or HFBR-1528Z?

Yes, the AFBR-1528CZ shares identical mechanical footprint, pin numbering, and horizontal housing dimensions with AFBR-1521CZ and HFBR-1528Z, enabling drop-in replacement on PCBs designed for the Versatile Link platform. However, electrical and thermal specifications differ: only AFBR-1528CZ guarantees +95°C operation and dual-fiber (POF/PCS) support.

What fiber types and maximum distances are supported by the AFBR-1528CZ?

The AFBR-1528CZ supports two fiber types: 1-mm polymer optical fiber (POF) up to 58 m, and 200-µm plastic-clad silica (PCS) up to 500 m. These distances assume worst-case attenuation (0.23 dB/m for POF, 12 dB/km for PCS) and operation across –40°C to +95°C. Performance is verified with AFBR-HUXYYYZ and HFBR-EXXYYYZ POF cables and standard 200-µm PCS.

How does the AFBR-1528CZ ensure eye safety, and what certification applies?

The AFBR-1528CZ is certified IEC 60825-1/-2 Class 1, meaning it emits optical power levels inherently safe under all conditions of normal use - no protective housings or user controls required. This classification is based on measured peak output power (≤2 dBm on POF at 30 mA) and beam divergence within the Versatile Link housing, validated per international laser safety standards.