Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS1123LE-25+

Overview

DS1123LE-25+ from Maxim Integrated is an 8-bit programmable delay line operating at 3.3V, delivering 0.25ns step resolution across 256 steps (0–63.75ns max delay), with on-chip reference delay enabling true 0° to 360° clock phase shifting in telecom and test equipment timing paths.

For engineers reviewing the DS1123LE-25+ datasheet, DS1123LE-25+ pinout, DS1123LE-25+ application, or DS1123LE-25+ equivalent, key selection concerns include step resolution accuracy, monotonic delay behavior, parallel/serial programming interface flexibility, reference-output tracking for differential timing, and guaranteed operation over 0°C to +70°C with 3.3V single-supply compatibility.

Technical Context

The DS1123LE-25+ implements a 255-stage tapped delay-line architecture with 8-bit latch-controlled decoding, supporting three functional modes: delay line (MS = 0), monostable vibrator (MS = 1, IN-triggered PWM), and free-running oscillator (MS = 1 with OUT→IN feedback). Its reference output (REF/PWM) is matched to step-zero delay (tD0 ≈ 16.5–22ns) within ±1ns, enabling sub-step relative timing.

Delay calibration relies on internal unit cells with guaranteed monotonicity and integral nonlinearity ≤ ±2ns (vs. REF), while AC performance specifies tEDV = 500ns settling after parallel load and tEQV = 50ns Q-valid after LE assertion. The device supports both 8-bit parallel (P0–P7, LE, P/S = GND) and 3-wire serial (CLK, D, Q, P/S = VCC) programming without external components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS1123LE-25+ is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP (150-mil width) package with exposed pad not electrically connected. Pin functions are fully defined per Maxim's official pinout diagram and support both parallel and serial configuration without external pull-ups or buffers.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable delay line applications.

Compared with DS1023S-25+, DS1123LE-25+ adds 3.3V operation and reference output for differential timing; compared with LMK03806RHAT, it offers simpler monostable/PWM functionality without PLL complexity or higher cost-making it optimal for discrete delay, phase-shift, and pulse-width control tasks.

Availability

DS1123LE-25+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for telecommunications infrastructure, digital test equipment, digital video projection, and signal generator applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed 0.25ns step accuracy.

Supply support for DS1123LE-25+ 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

Maxim Integrated (now part of Analog Devices) is a U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and high-reliability timing solutions for industrial, communications, and test markets.

The DS1123L family was designed specifically for high-resolution, multi-mode programmable timing in commercial-grade digital systems where flexibility, monotonicity, and reference-matched delay are essential-targeting applications that demand more than fixed-delay ICs or discrete solutions can provide.

FAQ

What is the maximum achievable delay with DS1123LE-25+?

The DS1123LE-25+ provides a maximum delay of 63.75ns (256 steps × 0.25ns/step), measured with respect to the REF output in delay-line mode (MS = 0). This value is specified in Table 1 of the datasheet and confirmed across the full 0°C to +70°C operating range. The DS1123LE-25+ achieves this using its 255-unit-cell delay line architecture with monotonic step response and ±2ns integral nonlinearity referenced to REF.

Does DS1123LE-25+ support both parallel and serial programming simultaneously?

No, DS1123LE-25+ does not support simultaneous parallel and serial programming. The P/S pin selects the active interface: grounded for parallel mode (P0–P7, LE), or tied to VCC for serial mode (CLK, D, Q). Attempting to drive both interfaces concurrently may cause undefined behavior or latch contention. The DS1123LE-25+ datasheet explicitly states that P/S must be fixed before power-up to ensure reliable configuration.

Can DS1123LE-25+ generate a true zero-delay output relative to the input signal?

DS1123LE-25+ cannot produce zero absolute delay from IN to OUT due to inherent step-zero delay (tD0 = 16.5–22ns), but it *can* achieve zero *relative* delay between OUT and REF outputs. Because tD0REF = –2.5 to 0ns, the REF output leads OUT at step zero-enabling differential timing down to true zero or negative values. This capability is central to the DS1123LE-25+'s use in phase-shifting and clock deskew applications.

What is the minimum pulse width supported in monostable mode for DS1123LE-25+?

The DS1123LE-25+ supports a minimum practical monostable output pulse width of 5ns in PWM mode (MS = 1), as specified in Note 13 and Table 1. Pulses narrower than 5ns may result in degraded output levels or complete failure to generate a pulse. This limit arises from the internal output driver's slew rate and propagation characteristics-not programmable resolution-and applies regardless of step size selection.

How does DS1123LE-25+ ensure monotonic delay behavior across temperature and voltage?

The DS1123LE-25+ guarantees monotonic delay through matched transistor sizing in its 255-stage delay-line array and on-die reference delay circuitry that tracks process, voltage, and temperature (PVT) variations. Its integral nonlinearity is bounded to ±2ns (vs. REF) over 0°C to +70°C and 3.0–3.6V, and the datasheet confirms monotonicity as a guaranteed specification-not a typical characteristic. This ensures every increment in the 8-bit code yields equal or greater delay, critical for closed-loop timing control.