Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated DS33Z44

Overview

DS33Z44 from Maxim Integrated is a quad Ethernet mapper IC that extends four 10/100BASE-T LAN segments over synchronous TDM/PDH networks via HDLC or X.86 (LAPS) encapsulation. It supports up to 52Mbps per serial port, provides CIR bandwidth control in 512kbps increments, and operates with 1.8V core voltage and 3.3V-tolerant I/O. It is used in transparent LAN service delivery across T1/E1/J1, T3/E3, and G.SHDSL infrastructure.

For engineers reviewing the DS33Z44 datasheet, DS33Z44 pinout, DS33Z44 application, or DS33Z44 equivalent, key selection criteria include its four independent MII/RMII Ethernet MAC interfaces, 256-ball CSBGA package, fractional CIR allocation capability, store-and-forward packet handling at wire speed, and support for stand-alone hardware-mode operation without host processor.

Technical Context

The DS33Z44 implements a full-duplex store-and-forward architecture with dedicated transmit/receive timing per serial port, enabling simultaneous bidirectional transport over xDSL, SONET/SDH tributaries, or V.35/optical links. Its HDLC/X.86 mapper handles frame alignment, programmable FCS, and interframe fill, while integrated CIR controllers enforce bandwidth limits per connection in precise 512kbps steps.

It integrates four IEEE 802.3-compliant 10/100 MACs with automatic flow control, external 100MHz SDRAM buffering, and dual interface options: parallel microprocessor bus (Intel/Motorola modes) and SPI master-only configuration. JTAG (IEEE 1149.1) enables boundary-scan testing and debug access.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

DS33Z44 is housed in a 256-ball Chip-Scale Ball Grid Array (CSBGA) package measuring 17mm × 17mm with 0.8mm ball pitch. Pin functions are defined across four quadrants supporting Ethernet MAC, serial WAN, memory, configuration, clock, and test interfaces.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar Ethernet-to-TDM mapping applications.

Compared with DS33Z11 and DS33X11, the DS33Z44 uniquely delivers quad-port scalability, X.86/LAPS compliance, integrated BERT, and external SDRAM buffering-making it the only option for high-density, multi-service, standards-compliant Ethernet-over-TDM deployments.

Availability

DS33Z44 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for transparent LAN service, Ethernet-over-T1/E1/J1, and G.SHDSL backhaul applications requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for DS33Z44 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) designs high-performance analog and mixed-signal ICs for communications, computing, and industrial applications.

The DS33Z44 belongs to Maxim's Telecom Line Interface and Ethernet Mapping product line, engineered specifically for carrier-class Ethernet extension over legacy and next-generation TDM infrastructure.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the DS33Z44?

The DS33Z44 is a quad Ethernet mapper IC that encapsulates IEEE 802.3 MAC frames into HDLC or X.86 (LAPS) format for transport over four synchronous TDM serial links. It enables transparent LAN extension across PDH, xDSL, and SONET/SDH networks while enforcing bandwidth via CIR controllers. The DS33Z44 supports full wire-speed store-and-forward operation and integrates four 10/100 MACs with MII/RMII interfaces.

Does the DS33Z44 support both HDLC and X.86 (LAPS) encapsulation?

Yes, the DS33Z44 natively supports both HDLC and X.86 (LAPS) encapsulation modes per serial port. Each port can be independently configured for either protocol, with programmable FCS type (CRC-16 or CRC-32), interframe fill, and frame alignment. This dual-mode capability allows the DS33Z44 to interoperate with diverse TDM infrastructure including legacy HDLC networks and modern LAPS-based SONET/SDH systems.

What is the minimum bandwidth increment supported by the DS33Z44's CIR controllers?

The DS33Z44's Committed Information Rate (CIR) controllers allocate bandwidth in fixed 512kbps increments per connection. This granularity enables precise QoS provisioning for individual Ethernet flows mapped to TDM channels. The DS33Z44 applies CIR enforcement in the WAN transmit path, ensuring deterministic throughput without oversubscription-critical for SLA-backed Ethernet services delivered over T1/E1 or G.SHDSL.

Can the DS33Z44 operate without an external host processor?

Yes, the DS33Z44 supports hardware-only operation mode using SPI-configured boot from external EEPROM. In this mode, all initialization, port configuration, and CIR settings are loaded automatically at power-up-no external μC or firmware is required. This makes the DS33Z44 ideal for fixed-function, low-maintenance network edge devices where the DS33Z44 manages Ethernet-to-TDM mapping autonomously.

What package type and thermal specifications does the DS33Z44 use?

The DS33Z44 is packaged in a 256-ball CSBGA (17mm × 17mm) with 0.8mm ball pitch, optimized for high-density telecom PCBs. It operates across the industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C and features thermal characteristics validated for continuous operation under full load in enclosed carrier-grade enclosures. The DS33Z44's 1.8V core supply further minimizes thermal dissipation compared to 3.3V alternatives.