Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS26401NA2+

Overview

DS26401NA2+ from Maxim Integrated is an octal, software-selectable T1/E1/J1 framer IC with eight independent framer/formatter channels, integrated HDLC controllers per channel, full-feature BERT, and internal clock adapter (CLAD) supporting 2.048MHz–16.384MHz backplane rates. It operates from a single 3.3V supply with 5V-tolerant inputs and targets telecom line cards and WAN interface equipment requiring synchronous TDM timing.

For engineers reviewing the DS26401NA2+ datasheet, DS26401NA2+ pinout, DS26401NA2+ application, or DS26401NA2+ equivalent, key selection considerations include its 256-pin BGA package, software-configurable T1/E1/J1 framing per channel, dual-path (Tx/Rx) elastic store buffers, BERT mapping flexibility across all eight ports, and support for AMI/B8ZS/HDB3/NRZ line coding.

Technical Context

The DS26401NA2+ implements eight fully independent T1/E1/J1 framer/formatter cores, each with dedicated transmit and receive paths, two-frame elastic store buffers, and programmable signaling extraction/insertion. Its HDLC controllers map to any DS0 or FDL/Sa bit, enabling granular channel-level control in IMA and ATM edge applications.

System-level timing is managed via the internal CLAD clock generator (outputting 2.048MHz, 4.096MHz, 8.192MHz, or 16.384MHz) and a flexible 8-bit parallel control port configurable for Intel- or Motorola-style bus operation. JTAG boundary-scan support enables production testability without external logic.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS26401NA2+ is housed in a 17mm × 17mm, 256-ball fine-pitch BGA (1.00mm pitch) package. Pin assignments are defined per the Maxim Integrated DS26401 datasheet Rev 072403, with signals grouped into receive framer, transmit framer, parallel control port (Intel/Motorola configurable), system interface (TDM backplane), JTAG, and power/ground domains.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar octal T1/E1 framer applications.

Compared with DS3181 and MC28L01, the DS26401NA2+ uniquely delivers full T1/E1/J1 software-selectable framing across eight channels, on-chip BERT, and integrated clock generation - making it the only option supporting mixed-standards, high-channel-count, and self-test-capable telecom line card designs without external timing or test components.

Availability

DS26401NA2+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for line cards, WAN interface modules, and add-drop multiplexers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing for telecom infrastructure programs.

Supply support for DS26401NA2+ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF solutions for communications, computing, and industrial markets.

The DS26401NA2+ belongs to Maxim's Telecom Framer product line, designed specifically for carrier-class TDM infrastructure requiring multi-standard framing, deterministic timing, and integrated diagnostics in space-constrained line cards.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for DS26401NA2+?

The DS26401NA2+ is rated for industrial operation from –40°C to +85°C, matching the DS26401N grade. This range ensures reliable performance in uncontrolled environments such as outdoor DSLAM cabinets and central office line card shelves where ambient temperatures exceed commercial limits. The DS26401NA2+ maintains full specification compliance-including BERT accuracy, elastic store latency, and HDLC timing-across this entire range.

Does DS26401NA2+ support both T1 and E1 framing in the same device simultaneously?

Yes, the DS26401NA2+ supports concurrent T1 and E1 framing: each of its eight framers can be independently configured for T1, E1, or J1 mode via software register writes. This allows mixed-mode operation-for example, four channels in T1 D4/ESF mode and four in E1 G.704 mode-without hardware changes or external multiplexing. The internal CLAD clock generator automatically selects appropriate frequencies (e.g., 1.544MHz for T1, 2.048MHz for E1).

How is the BERT function implemented in DS26401NA2+?

The DS26401NA2+ integrates a full-feature BERT that can be mapped to any of the eight T1/E1 ports via register configuration. It supports pseudorandom pattern generation (2^15–1, 2^23–1), error injection, BER calculation over user-defined intervals, and RAM-based pattern storage. Unlike external BERT instruments, this on-chip implementation enables real-time, per-port link health monitoring without interrupting traffic or adding test points to the PCB layout.

What package type and pin count does DS26401NA2+ use?

The DS26401NA2+ uses a 256-ball fine-pitch BGA package measuring 17mm × 17mm with 1.00mm ball pitch. This package matches the mechanical and thermal specifications of the DS26401N series and is compatible with standard telecom PCB assembly processes including reflow profiling and X-ray inspection. Ball assignments follow Maxim's documented signal grouping (e.g., RXCLK/TXCLK banks, D[0:7], JTAG, power planes).

Can DS26401NA2+ operate with a 5V microcontroller interface?

Yes, the DS26401NA2+ features a 5V-tolerant 8-bit parallel control port (D[0:7], RD, WR, CS, etc.), allowing direct connection to legacy 5V microcontrollers without level-shifting circuitry. The port is software-configurable for either Intel-style (BTS = 0) or Motorola-style (BTS = 1) timing, and all control signals meet 5V logic thresholds while the core operates from a single 3.3V supply-reducing system power complexity.