Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX2108CEG

Overview

MAX2108CEG from Maxim Integrated is a direct-conversion tuner IC for digital DBS satellite receivers and microwave links, operating 950MHz–2150MHz with integrated LNA, I/Q downconverter, on-chip 90° quadrature generator, and dual-modulus prescaler (/32 or /33). It delivers 10dB noise figure at max gain, +8dBm IIP3 at min gain, and >50dB RF gain-control range using a single +5V supply.

For engineers reviewing the MAX2108CEG datasheet, MAX2108CEG pinout, MAX2108CEG application, or MAX2108CEG equivalent, this page provides verified functional identity, confirmed package (24 QSOP), validated pin roles, real-world baseband bandwidth (150MHz), and two technically documented alternative tuners for DBS and broadband RF front-end design.

Technical Context

The MAX2108CEG implements a fully integrated direct-conversion architecture: RF input passes through a variable-gain LNA (1V–4V GC control), then into a quadrature mixer pair driven by internally generated 90° LO signals derived from differential LO inputs. Its prescaler supports frequency synthesis via selectable /32 or /33 division controlled by PS_SEL voltage level.

Baseband outputs (IOUT/IOUT, QOUT/QOUT) deliver differential 1.0V_P-P swing into 100Ω loads with ≤3° phase error and ≤1dB amplitude mismatch across 125kHz–150MHz, enabling direct interface to anti-aliasing filters ahead of ADCs in DVB-compliant set-top boxes and wireless infrastructure.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX2108CEG is housed in a 24-pin QSOP package (3.9mm × 8.7mm body, 0.635mm pitch), optimized for RF layout with dedicated ground pins per functional block (RF, LO, prescaler, downconverter) and separate VCC rails for isolation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar direct-conversion tuner applications.

Compared with MAX2108CEG, MAX2112ETX+ adds full frequency synthesis but increases cost and complexity, while AD8340ACPZ-R7 lacks receive-chain integration entirely - making MAX2108CEG the optimal choice for cost-sensitive, self-contained DBS and microwave link tuners requiring proven L-band performance in QSOP form factor.

Availability

MAX2108CEG is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DirecTV tuner modules, DVB-S satellite receivers, and microwave point-to-point links requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX2108CEG 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs for communications, computing, and industrial applications, with emphasis on integration, power efficiency, and signal integrity.

The MAX2108CEG belongs to Maxim's high-performance RF tuner product line, engineered specifically for cost-effective, single-chip L-band direct-conversion solutions in satellite TV and wireless infrastructure equipment.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range for the MAX2108CEG?

The MAX2108CEG is specified for operation from 0°C to +70°C ambient temperature, matching commercial-grade requirements for set-top box and outdoor microwave unit deployments. This range is confirmed in the Ordering Information table and Absolute Maximum Ratings section of the official datasheet, and applies to all electrical specifications unless otherwise noted.

Does the MAX2108CEG require an external quadrature LO source?

No, the MAX2108CEG does not require an external quadrature LO source. It integrates a 90° quadrature generator that derives precise I/Q LO signals from the single differential LO input (pins 18 and 19), eliminating need for external polyphase networks or discrete phase-shift circuits - a key enabler of its compact direct-conversion architecture.

What is the recommended input impedance match for the RFIN pins of the MAX2108CEG?

The RFIN pins (6 and 7) of the MAX2108CEG are designed for 75Ω differential input impedance. The datasheet specifies connecting RFIN to a 75Ω cable via a matching network and terminating RFIN with a 75Ω resistor to ground through a 22pF capacitor - ensuring optimal return loss and noise figure across the 950–2150MHz band.

Can the MAX2108CEG be used in DVB-S2 compliant systems?

Yes, the MAX2108CEG supports DVB-S2 compliance through its 150MHz baseband bandwidth, low I/Q mismatch (<1dB amplitude, <3° phase), and 10mV_P-P minimum differential output swing - all enabling clean demodulation of 64-QAM and 256-QAM constellations at symbol rates up to 45 Msps when paired with appropriate anti-aliasing filters and ADCs.

How is gain control implemented in the MAX2108CEG?

Gain control in the MAX2108CEG is implemented via analog voltage applied to the GC pin (pin 10), with valid range 1V to 4V. This voltage directly adjusts the transconductance of the internal LNA, delivering over 50dB of RF gain variation. In closed-loop AGC systems, the GC voltage is servo-controlled to maintain constant 10mV_P-P differential output across IOUT/IOUT and QOUT/QOUT for input signals from -70dBm to -20dBm.