Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX108EVKIT

Overview

The MAX108EVKIT from Maxim Integrated is a fully assembled, four-layer evaluation kit designed to characterize the dynamic performance of the MAX108 1.5 Gsps ultra-high-speed analog-to-digital converter (ADC), including its demultiplexed differential PECL outputs, ±250 mV input range, and on-board PECL/ECL termination voltage generation (PECLVTT/ECLVTT).

For engineers reviewing the MAX108EVKIT datasheet, MAX108EVKIT pinout, MAX108EVKIT application, or MAX108EVKIT equivalent, this kit supports rapid validation of high-speed ADC signal integrity, clock jitter sensitivity, overrange detection, and demux timing alignment in test benches with logic analyzers such as the HP16500C.

Technical Context

The MAX108EVKIT implements a dedicated high-speed layout using GETek™ laminate (ε_r = 3.9) with matched 50 Ω microstrip traces for analog inputs (J1/J2), clock inputs (J3/J4), and 16-channel PECL outputs - all routed on separate layers to minimize coupling. It integrates on-board bias generation for ECLVTT (–2 V) and PECLVTT (VCCO – 2 V), enabling direct interfacing with ECL, PECL, and single-ended clock sources.

It supports three operational modes via jumper configuration: non-demultiplexed DIV1 (full-rate primary output only), demultiplexed DIV2 (8-bit primary + 8-bit auxiliary), and decimated DIV4 (quarter-rate output for debug). The board includes self-biasing reset circuitry, internal +2.5 V bandgap reference routing, and VOSADJ offset adjustment via 10 kΩ potentiometer R2.

Key Specifications

Availability

MAX108EVKIT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed data acquisition systems, RF instrumentation test benches, and radar receiver prototyping requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and long-term evaluation platform continuity.

Supply support for MAX108EVKIT 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 power management ICs for precision, speed, and reliability-critical applications.

The MAX108EVKIT belongs to Maxim's high-speed data converter evaluation platform family, engineered specifically to validate ultra-fast ADCs in demanding applications such as wideband communications, electronic warfare, and high-fidelity digitization where sub-picosecond timing alignment and low-noise signal integrity are essential.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX108EVKIT?

The MAX108EVKIT is a fully assembled evaluation platform for the MAX108 1.5 Gsps ADC. It enables engineers to measure dynamic performance parameters-including SNR, SFDR, and aperture jitter-using standard lab equipment. The MAX108EVKIT provides SMA-connected analog/clock inputs, demultiplexed PECL outputs, on-board termination voltages (PECLVTT/ECLVTT), and configurable demux modes (DIV1/DIV2/DIV4) without requiring custom PCB design or power sequencing logic.

Which ADC variants does the MAX108EVKIT support besides the MAX108?

The MAX108EVKIT is mechanically and electrically compatible with the MAX104 (1 Gsps) and MAX106 (600 Msps) in the same 192-pin ESBGA package. All three devices share identical pinouts, power architecture, and interface requirements. The MAX108EVKIT ships with a MAX108CHC installed, but users may substitute MAX104CHC or MAX106CHC per the device-specific data sheet timing and thermal guidelines.

How is clock input flexibility implemented on the MAX108EVKIT?

The MAX108EVKIT supports both single-ended sine-wave and differential ECL/PECL clock drives. For ECL, the on-board LM2991 regulator generates –2 V ECLVTT (enabled by moving JU3 ON and removing JU2); for PECL, AC-coupling is used with CLKCOM grounded. Single-ended drive accepts +4 dBm (500 mV) signals at CLK+, with CLK– reverse-terminated to GNDI. All clock traces are 50 Ω microstrips routed on Layer I to preserve signal integrity.

What role does the de-embedding fixture play on the MAX108EVKIT?

The de-embedding fixture on the MAX108EVKIT consists of two calibrated 50 Ω microstrip paths (J7–J8 and J9–J10) with a precise 1.50-inch length difference. By measuring insertion loss between them at the target frequency, users can quantify and subtract PCB-induced attenuation from analog input measurements - isolating true ADC performance from board-level losses. This enables accurate characterization of SNR degradation due to trace loss up to 2.5 GHz.

Can the MAX108EVKIT be used with logic analyzers that lack differential acquisition pods?

Yes. The MAX108EVKIT's PECL outputs (P0+/P0–, A0+/A0–, etc.) are terminated on-board with 50 Ω resistors to PECLVTT, allowing single-ended connection to logic analyzer channels. Users connect all acquisition pods to either the "+" or "–" side of each differential pair. The DREADY+ output (JUDR+) serves as the acquisition clock, with threshold set to VCCO – 1.3 V (e.g., +2.0 V for +3.3 V VCCO) to match PECL logic levels.