Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX13014EKA+T

Overview

The MAX13014EKA+T from Maxim Integrated is a dual-channel bidirectional logic-level translator IC enabling 100Mbps data transfer between +1.2V–+3.6V voltage domains. It features independent VL and VCC supplies, active-high EN control, tri-state capability, and operates across –40°C to +85°C. Used in SPI/MICROWIRE interfaces between low-voltage PLDs and 3.3V systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX13014EKA+T datasheet, MAX13014EKA+T pinout, MAX13014EKA+T application, or MAX13014EKA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 100Mbps operation at VL ≥ 1.8V, ultra-low 0.1µA disabled supply current, bidirectional translation without inversion, and SOT23-8 package compatibility with space-constrained portable designs.

Technical Context

The MAX13014EKA+T implements a one-shot accelerator output architecture that activates only during signal transitions on either I/O VL_ or I/O VCC_, minimizing quiescent power while achieving sub-7ns propagation delay (I/OVL→VCC) and ≤4ns rise/fall times at 15pF load. Its input thresholds scale with VL and VCC (VIHL = 2/3×VL, VIHC = 2/3×VCC), ensuring robust noise margins across voltage combinations.

Each channel supports true bidirectional translation: signals driven on the VL side appear as higher-voltage logic on the VCC side and vice versa. The EN pin places both sides in high-impedance tri-state, reducing VCC current to 0.03µA and VL current to 0.1µA - critical for battery-powered sleep modes in GPS and POS systems.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX13014EKA+T is housed in an 8-pin SOT23 package (JEDEC MO-178 compliant, 2.80mm × 2.95mm × 1.30mm). Pin 1 marked with dot; leads coplanar within 4 mils. Requires 0.1µF ceramic decoupling on both VCC and VL pins.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar bidirectional level translation applications.

Compared with TXB0102DCKR and SN74AVC2T244RSWR, the MAX13014EKA+T uniquely delivers guaranteed 100Mbps performance down to VL = 1.2V, sub-0.1µA disabled current, and true bidirectional operation with explicit EN control - making it optimal for battery-sensitive, mixed-voltage portable systems requiring deterministic tri-state behavior.

Availability

MAX13014EKA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable POS systems, GPS receivers, SPI interface bridging, and low-voltage ASIC interfacing requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX13014EKA+T 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 industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX13014EKA+T belongs to Maxim's high-speed logic-level translator product line, designed specifically for energy-efficient, multivoltage system interconnect in portable and battery-operated electronics.

FAQ

What is the minimum VL voltage required for guaranteed 100Mbps operation of the MAX13014EKA+T?

The MAX13014EKA+T guarantees 100Mbps data rate only when VL ≥ 1.8V. At VL = 1.2V, the maximum supported data rate drops to 80Mbps per the Electrical Characteristics table. This threshold is defined by internal comparator response time and output drive strength under low-voltage conditions, and must be verified in final system layout with actual load capacitance.

Can the MAX13014EKA+T translate between 1.2V and 3.3V logic levels without external components?

Yes - the MAX13014EKA+T performs bidirectional 1.2V ↔ 3.3V translation using only its VL and VCC supplies, with no external resistors or direction-control lines required. Its scalable input thresholds (VIHL = 2/3×VL, VIHC = 2/3×VCC) and rail-to-rail output swing ensure reliable operation across this voltage pair, provided VL ≤ VCC − 0.4V (i.e., 3.3V − 0.4V = 2.9V ≥ 1.2V).

How does the EN pin affect the I/O states of the MAX13014EKA+T?

When EN is logic low (≤ 1/3×VL), the MAX13014EKA+T places all four I/O terminals (I/O VL1, I/O VL2, I/O VCC1, I/O VCC2) into high-impedance tri-state, isolating both voltage domains. This reduces VCC supply current to 0.03µA and VL supply current to 0.1µA - essential for low-power sleep modes. Driving EN high (≥ 2/3×VL) restores bidirectional translation.

Is the MAX13014EKA+T compatible with SPI clock frequencies up to 50MHz?

Yes - the MAX13014EKA+T supports 100Mbps data transfer, which corresponds to 50MHz SPI clock (two edges per bit). With typical propagation delays of 6ns and rise/fall times ≤4ns at 15pF, it meets setup/hold timing for standard SPI Mode 0/3 at 50MHz across –40°C to +85°C, assuming PCB trace capacitance remains ≤15pF per line.

What decoupling capacitors are required for stable operation of the MAX13014EKA+T?

The MAX13014EKA+T requires a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible between VL and GND, and another 0.1µF ceramic capacitor between VCC and GND. These minimize supply ripple and prevent data corruption during fast edge transitions. Larger bulk capacitors (e.g., 1–10µF) may be added nearby if system-level noise exceeds 50mVpp.