Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX2172ETL+T

Overview

MAX2172ETL+T from Maxim Integrated is a direct-conversion to low-IF RF tuner IC for digital audio broadcast (DAB), T-DMB, and FM reception, covering 87–108MHz (FM), 168–240MHz (VHF-III), and 1452–1492MHz (L-band), with 2.9dB noise figure (VHF-III), -101dBm sensitivity, and 2.048MHz balanced baseband output.

For engineers reviewing the MAX2172ETL+T datasheet, MAX2172ETL+T pinout, MAX2172ETL+T application, or MAX2172ETL+T equivalent, key selection considerations include its sigma-delta fractional-N synthesizer for OFDM phase-noise performance, integrated bandpass filters per band, RSSI-based fast channel scan, and elimination of external IF-SAW filters via low-IF architecture.

Technical Context

The MAX2172ETL+T implements a direct-conversion receiver front-end with on-chip VHF-III, L-band, and FM tracking bandpass filters, followed by a low-IF downconversion stage producing a 2.048MHz centered differential baseband output. Its sigma-delta fractional-N PLL delivers optimized 1kHz and wideband phase noise for OFDM demodulation robustness against adjacent-channel interference.

RF AGC is controlled by an internal baseband overload detector, and a 5-bit fast RSSI output enables rapid channel scanning. The device operates from a single +2.7V to +3.5V supply and integrates a buffered crystal reference clock output.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX2172ETL+T is housed in a 40-pin thin QFN package (6mm × 6mm) with exposed thermal pad, optimized for RF layout integrity and thermal dissipation in compact tuner modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX2170ETL+T and Si2177-A30-GM, the MAX2172ETL+T uniquely combines triple-band (FM/VHF-III/L-band) support, 2.048MHz low-IF output, and sigma-delta PLL optimization for DAB/T-DMB OFDM-making it the only drop-in solution for existing tuner reference designs targeting European and Korean digital radio standards.

Availability

MAX2172ETL+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable DAB radios, automotive infotainment systems, and digital set-top boxes requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX2172ETL+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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF solutions for communications, industrial, and consumer applications.

The MAX2172ETL+T belongs to Maxim's digital broadcast tuner product line, engineered specifically for DAB, T-DMB, and FM receiver systems demanding high integration, low power, and OFDM-optimized phase-noise performance.

FAQ

What frequency bands does the MAX2172ETL+T support?

The MAX2172ETL+T supports three distinct bands: 87–108MHz for FM broadcast, 168–240MHz for VHF-III (DAB), and 1452–1492MHz for L-band (T-DMB). Each band uses dedicated on-chip tracking filters, and the device outputs a 2.048MHz low-IF signal compatible with standard DAB/T-DMB demodulators. No external band-switching components are required.

Does the MAX2172ETL+T require an external IF-SAW filter?

No, the MAX2172ETL+T does not require an external IF-SAW filter. Its low-IF architecture produces a 2.048MHz differential baseband output that interfaces directly with demodulator ICs. This eliminates the need for off-chip IF filtering, reducing bill-of-materials cost, PCB area, and insertion loss-key advantages confirmed in Maxim's reference design MAX2172EVKIT.

What is the role of the sigma-delta fractional-N synthesizer in the MAX2172ETL+T?

The sigma-delta fractional-N synthesizer in the MAX2172ETL+T optimizes both close-in (1kHz offset) and wideband phase noise-critical for maintaining OFDM symbol integrity in DAB/T-DMB systems subject to strong adjacent-channel interferers. It enables robust reception in dense RF environments without requiring external loop filters or calibration.

How does the RSSI function operate in the MAX2172ETL+T?

The MAX2172ETL+T features a dedicated 5-bit fast RSSI output updated every ~80µs, enabling rapid channel scanning without host processor latency. This RSSI is derived from baseband signal energy and is independent of AGC state, making it ideal for firmware-driven station search in portable and automotive DAB receivers.

Is the MAX2172ETL+T qualified for automotive temperature range?

Yes, the MAX2172ETL+T is specified over the extended industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, meeting the thermal requirements of most automotive infotainment applications. Its guaranteed electrical performance-including -101dBm sensitivity and 2.9dB noise figure-holds across this full range, as validated in Maxim's production test flow.