Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX14591EWA+

Overview

MAX14591EWA+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual-channel, bidirectional logic-level translator optimized for I²C and MDIO buses, supporting open-drain operation up to 4 MHz and push-pull operation up to 8 MHz. It enables voltage translation between VL = +0.9V to +3.6V and VCC = +1.65V to +5.5V with 17 Ω max R_ON, 23 µA typical VCC supply current, and integrated 3–12 kΩ pullup resistors. It is used in multivoltage embedded systems requiring seamless interconnection between low-voltage controllers and higher-voltage peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the MAX14591EWA+ datasheet, MAX14591EWA+ pinout, MAX14591EWA+ application, or MAX14591EWA+ equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional open-drain timing compliance (I²C high-speed mode), shutdown control via TS input, thermal shutdown at +150°C, and WLP package suitability for space-constrained PCB layouts.

Technical Context

The MAX14591EWA+ implements a dual-channel transmission-gate architecture with independent VL- and VCC-referenced I/O pairs (IOVL1/IOVL2 and IOVCC1/IOVCC2), enabling true bidirectional level shifting without direction pins. Its internal accelerator stage reduces rise/fall times-e.g., 2.7 ns t_RL (IOVL_ rise) and 1.9 ns t_{PD_CCL} (propagation delay driving IOVCC_) under push-pull conditions at VCC = +3V, VL = +1.2V.

Three-state control is managed by the TS pin: when TS = GND, both I/O sides enter high-impedance state and internal pullups disconnect; when TS = VL or VCC, pullups activate only on the powered side. Thermal shutdown triggers at +150°C (typ) with 10°C hysteresis, disabling translation until junction temperature falls below +140°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX14591EWA+ uses an 8-bump Wafer-Level Package (WLP) with 0.4 mm pitch, measuring 0.8 mm × 1.6 mm. This ultra-compact footprint is designed for high-density portable and wearables applications where board space is constrained.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TXS0102DCUR and PCA9306DCUR, the MAX14591EWA+ uniquely combines 0.9V VL support, integrated pullups with TS-controlled activation, thermal shutdown, and sub-10 ns propagation delays - making it optimal for next-generation portable and medical devices demanding compactness, robustness, and ultra-low-voltage interoperability.

Availability

MAX14591EWA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for smartphone baseband interfacing, I²C sensor hubs, MDIO-based Ethernet PHY control, portable medical subsystems, and industrial IoT edge nodes requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX14591EWA+ 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 power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX14591EWA+ belongs to Maxim's high-speed interface translation product line, engineered specifically for reliable, low-latency, bidirectional voltage translation in multirail systems with stringent size and power constraints.

FAQ

What is the minimum VL supply voltage supported by the MAX14591EWA+?

The MAX14591EWA+ supports VL down to +0.9V, enabling direct interfacing with advanced low-power processors and memory I/O domains operating at sub-1.0V logic levels. This capability is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Power Supply Range" and validated across the full –40°C to +85°C operating temperature range. The MAX14591EWA+ maintains specified timing and R_ON performance even at this minimum VL.

Does the MAX14591EWA+ require external pullup resistors for I²C operation?

No - the MAX14591EWA+ integrates 3–12 kΩ pullup resistors on both IOVL and IOVCC sides, activated automatically when TS = high and the corresponding supply (VL or VCC) is present. External pullups are optional and only needed if tighter bus timing or specific resistance values (e.g., for 400 kHz standard-mode I²C) are required beyond the internal range. The MAX14591EWA+ datasheet explicitly states "pullups are optional for high-speed, open-drain operation."

How does the TS pin function in the MAX14591EWA+?

The TS pin on the MAX14591EWA+ is an active-high three-state enable. When TS = GND, both IOVL and IOVCC pins go high-impedance and internal pullups disconnect - placing the device in shutdown with <2.2 µA total supply current. When TS = VL or VCC, pullups engage only on the powered side, allowing uninterrupted I²C operation on the live rail while the other domain is unpowered. This behavior is documented in the General Description and Pin Description sections of the MAX14591EWA+ datasheet.

What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX14591EWA+ can drive in open-drain mode?

The MAX14591EWA+ supports open-drain operation with total bus capacitance ≤100 pF at its rated 4 MHz maximum data rate, as specified in the Detailed Description section. Characterization data (Figure 15 and toc07–toc08) confirms stable dynamic supply current and timing performance up to 100 pF. Exceeding this capacitance degrades rise time and may violate I²C timing budgets - the MAX14591EWA+ datasheet recommends limiting CL to ≤100 pF for guaranteed high-speed compliance.

Is the MAX14591EWA+ RoHS-compliant and lead-free?

Yes - the "+" suffix in MAX14591EWA+ denotes a lead(Pb)-free and RoHS-compliant package, per Maxim's Ordering Information table. The device uses a halogen-free, matte-tin finish on its WLP bumps and conforms to EU RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and JEDEC J-STD-609 standards. This is verified in the Package Information section (page 12) of the MAX14591EWA+ datasheet.