Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX2361ETM+

Overview

MAX2361ETM+ from Maxim Integrated is a dual-band, triple-mode quadrature transmitter IC for cellular handsets, integrating I/Q modulator, dual IF/RF synthesizers, image-reject upconverter, RF VGA, and three PA drivers (RFL, RFH0, RFH1). It delivers +9dBm linear RF output power with 100dB power-control range, supports CDMA/cdma2000/TDMA/W-CDMA/GAIT mobile phones, and operates across 800–1000MHz (RFL) and 1700–2000MHz (RFH0/RFH1) bands.

For engineers reviewing the MAX2361ETM+ datasheet, MAX2361ETM+ pinout, MAX2361ETM+ application, or MAX2361ETM+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, validated pin functions, confirmed dual-VCO IF architecture, real-world ACPR performance at ±885kHz/±1.25MHz offsets, and precise gain-control behavior across temperature (±1dB variation).

Technical Context

The MAX2361ETM+ implements a two-stage upconversion architecture: differential I/Q baseband inputs feed a quadrature modulator generating IF (120–380MHz), which is then filtered externally and fed to a single-sideband upconverter driven by programmable LOL/LOH inputs (800–2360MHz). Its dual IF VCOs (TANKL+/TANKL− and TANKH+/TANKH−) support independent low/high IF selection via VCO_SEL, enabling split-band PCS filtering.

Gain control is unified across IF and RF stages via the GC pin (0.6V–2.4V), delivering 85dB IF gain range and 40dB RF gain range while maintaining linearity; supply current scales dynamically with output power-dropping as VGC decreases. The 3-wire SPI/QSPI/MICROWIRE interface configures mode, charge-pump current (ICP/RCP), turbolock, and PLL prescaler (PSS) for fast lock acquisition.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX2361ETM+ uses a 48-pin TQFN-EP package (7mm × 7mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed paddle (EP) for thermal management. Pin 1 is located at top-left corner adjacent to notch mark; pins numbered counterclockwise. All GND pins (45, 46, 48, EP) must be connected to PCB ground plane using multiple vias.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quadrature transmitter applications.

Compared with MAX2363ETM+ and MAX2365ETM+, the MAX2361ETM+ uniquely integrates dual-band RF outputs (RFL + RFH0/RFH1), dual IF VCOs, and triple-mode operation-enabling single-chip support for CDMA/cdma2000/W-CDMA/GAIT across 800MHz and 1800MHz bands without external switching or reconfiguration.

Availability

MAX2361ETM+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for CDMA mobile handsets, W-CDMA terminals, and satellite communication transceivers requiring stable component supply, full production traceability, and extended temperature range (−40°C to +85°C) performance.

Supply support for MAX2361ETM+ 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, computing, and industrial markets.

The MAX2361ETM+ belongs to Maxim's complete quadrature transmitter product line, designed specifically for multi-band, multi-mode cellular handsets requiring integrated synthesis, upconversion, and driver functionality in minimal footprint.

FAQ

What is the function of the GC pin on the MAX2361ETM+?

The GC (Gain Control) pin on the MAX2361ETM+ is an analog input (0.6V–2.4V) that simultaneously controls the gain of both the IF VGA (85dB range) and RF VGA (40dB range). This unified control optimizes linearity versus current consumption across operating modes and enables the device's 100dB total power-control range. An RC filter is recommended on GC to suppress DAC noise or PDM clock spurs.

Does the MAX2361ETM+ support FM mode, and if so, which output port is used?

Yes, the MAX2361ETM+ supports FM mode exclusively on the IFOUTL+/IFOUTL− port (pins 18–19), which is active when IF_SEL = 0. In FM mode, the device delivers −4dBm output power (direct VCO modulation) or −9dBm (I/Q modulation), meeting spectral mask requirements for analog voice transmission. IFOUTH+/IFOUTH− ports do not support FM mode.

How does the MAX2361ETM+ achieve image rejection without external RF filters?

The MAX2361ETM+ achieves image rejection through its single-sideband upconverter architecture, which inherently suppresses image signals to <−35dBc at maximum output power. This eliminates the need for external RF SAW filters, reducing bill-of-materials cost and PCB area. Image rejection is validated across the full RFL (800–1000MHz) and RFH_ (1700–2000MHz) bands per datasheet test conditions.

What are the key differences between the MAX2361ETM+, MAX2363ETM+, and MAX2365ETM+?

The MAX2361ETM+ is dual-band, triple-mode (CDMA/PCS/FM); MAX2363ETM+ is single-band, single-mode (PCS-only); MAX2365ETM+ is single-band, dual-mode (cellular/FM). MAX2361ETM+ uniquely features three RF outputs (RFL, RFH0, RFH1), dual IF VCOs, and full triple-mode register support-making it the only one capable of true dual-band operation without external switching.

What thermal management considerations apply to the MAX2361ETM+ TQFN-EP package?

The MAX2361ETM+ uses a 48-pin TQFN-EP package with exposed paddle (EP) requiring low-thermal-resistance connection to the PCB ground plane via multiple vias. At TA = +70°C, continuous power dissipation is 2.1W (derated 27mW/°C above +70°C). Proper thermal vias under EP and copper pour on inner layers are essential to maintain junction temperature ≤+150°C during +9dBm RF output operation.