Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX19792ETX+

Overview

MAX19792ETX+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual analog voltage-variable RF attenuator IC for 50Ω broadband systems, operating from 500MHz to 4000MHz. It delivers 23.2dB attenuation per channel, 8.5dB/V analog control slope (5V supply), +37.9dBm IIP3, and integrates a 10-bit SPI-controlled DAC. It enables transmitter/receiver gain control in LTE/WCDMA base stations and microwave point-to-point radios.

For engineers reviewing the MAX19792ETX+ datasheet, MAX19792ETX+ pinout, MAX19792ETX+ application, or MAX19792ETX+ equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, validated pin roles, confirmed RF performance across temperature, real-world control interface options (analog voltage or SPI), and direct alternative part comparisons with documented technical differences.

Technical Context

The MAX19792ETX+ implements two independent SiGe BiCMOS-based analog attenuators sharing a single CTRL voltage input or unified SPI DAC control. Its patented control circuit ensures monotonic 23.2dB attenuation range per path with ±0.4dB linearity deviation over VCTRL = 1.4V–3.1V at 5V operation.

It supports three mutually exclusive control modes: analog voltage (CTRL pin), SPI register write (CS/DIN/CLK/DOUT), or step-up/down pulse (UP/DWN pins). Mode selection is hardware-driven via the MODE pin, and the on-chip comparator (COMP_OUT) enables successive-approximation measurement of control voltage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX19792ETX+ is housed in a 36-pin TQFN package (6mm × 6mm × 0.8mm) with exposed pad (EP), optimized for RF layout and thermal dissipation in compact wireless infrastructure modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual RF attenuator applications.

Compared with MAX19791ETX+ and MAX19793ETX+, the MAX19792ETX+ uniquely combines 5V/3.3V dual-supply flexibility, integrated 10-bit DAC, and highest IIP3 (+37.9dBm), making it optimal for high-performance infrastructure ALC and gain-trim where linearity and control integration are critical.

Availability

MAX19792ETX+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for WCDMA/LTE base stations, microwave point-to-point radios, VSAT modems, and automatic level control systems requiring stable component supply, extended temperature operation (–40°C to +100°C), and RF performance consistency across production lots.

Supply support for MAX19792ETX+ 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 demanding RF, power, and sensing applications.

The MAX19792ETX+ belongs to Maxim's RF variable attenuator product line, engineered specifically for broadband wireless infrastructure requiring high linearity, dual-path integration, and flexible analog/digital control in compact form factors.

FAQ

What is the maximum RF input power rating for the MAX19792ETX+?

The MAX19792ETX+ supports continuous RF input power up to +15dBm at its IN_A and IN_B ports under recommended operating conditions. Absolute maximum ratings permit +20dBm transient input, but sustained operation above +15dBm risks compression or degradation of IIP3 and P1dB performance. System-level thermal design must ensure case temperature remains ≤ +100°C when operating near maximum RF power.

Does the MAX19792ETX+ support both 3.3V and 5V supply voltages simultaneously?

No - the MAX19792ETX+ operates from either a single 3.3V supply (3.15V–3.45V) or a single 5V supply (4.75V–5.25V), not both. All VCC pins (5,13,25,32) must be tied to the same supply rail. The device's internal regulation and biasing are optimized per supply condition, and mixing rails invalidates electrical specifications including IIP3, attenuation slope, and supply current.

How does the MODE pin affect control behavior of the MAX19792ETX+?

The MODE pin selects between two mutually exclusive control schemes: logic 0 configures the MAX19792ETX+ for SPI control (CS/DIN/CLK/DOUT active), while logic 1 enables UP/DWN step control. When MODE = 1, the CTRL pin is ignored, and attenuation changes only on active-low pulses to UP or DWN. This hardware-selectable mode allows deterministic, low-latency control without software overhead or SPI bus arbitration.

Can the MAX19792ETX+ be used with only one attenuator channel?

Yes - the MAX19792ETX+ supports single-channel operation. Unused RF ports (e.g., IN_B/OUT_B) may be left unconnected; unused VCC pins (e.g., Pin 32 if Attenuator B is disabled) should still be bypassed per the Typical Application Circuit. Performance parameters (IIP3, P1dB, insertion loss) remain valid for the active channel, and CTRL or SPI control applies identically to both paths unless cascaded.

What is the purpose of the COMP_OUT pin on the MAX19792ETX+?

The COMP_OUT pin on the MAX19792ETX+ is an open-drain comparator output used for successive-approximation measurement of the CTRL voltage. When enabled via RDBK_EN register bit, it toggles based on whether the internal DAC output exceeds the applied CTRL voltage - enabling external microcontrollers to digitize analog control levels without ADC resources. A 4.7pF capacitor is recommended at COMP_OUT to suppress rise-time glitches.