Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX24288ETK+T

Overview

MAX24288ETK+T from Maxim Integrated is an IEEE 1588 packet timestamper and clock subsystem with integrated SGMII/1000BASE-X serial interface and configurable parallel MII (GMII/RGMII/10/100 MII), supporting 1ns timestamp accuracy, 2–8ns software-steerable time resolution, and 125MHz output clock generation. It serves as a boundary/transparent/ordinary clock in telecom timing systems interfacing with SFP optical modules and Ethernet switches.

For engineers reviewing the MAX24288ETK+T datasheet, MAX24288ETK+T pinout, MAX24288ETK+T application, or MAX24288ETK+T equivalent, key selection criteria include 1588 v1/v2 packet classification over IPv4/UDP, IPv6/UDP, MPLS, or Ethernet; one-step timestamp insertion; SGMII rev 1.8 compliance; MDIO/SPI control; and 1.2V core / 3.3V I/O operation.

Technical Context

The MAX24288ETK+T integrates dual-path 1588 hardware timestamping-identifying and timestamping PTP packets in both transmit and receive directions with 1ns resolution-and a bidirectional parallel-to-serial MII converter supporting GMII/RGMII/MII on the parallel side and SGMII or 1000BASE-X on the serial side. Its time engine includes three independent time/frequency controls (direct time write, time adjustment, high-res frequency adjustment) and programmable input event timestamper for 1PPS or clock edge detection.

It implements full IEEE 1588 v2 packet classification-including VLAN, MAC-in-MAC, and CESoP/SAToP stacks-and supports one-step timestamp insertion directly into packet headers without follow-up messages. The device also provides synchronous Ethernet compatibility via REFCLK frequency-locking and RCLK bit-clock output for line-timing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX24288ETK+T is housed in a 68-pin TQFN-EP (6mm × 6mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per the official MAX24288 block diagram and pinout table (Rev 0, 6/11).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar IEEE 1588 timestamper and MII conversion applications.

Compared with KSZ9031RNX and I210-IT, the MAX24288ETK+T uniquely combines SGMII/1000BASE-X SerDes, full 1588v2 packet classification, one-step timestamp insertion, and autonomous clock steering-making it the only solution enabling single-chip boundary/transparent clock implementation in SFP-based telecom and industrial timing equipment.

Availability

MAX24288ETK+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless base stations, telecom switches, pseudowire circuit emulation systems, and precision test equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle assurance, and RoHS-compliant packaging.

Supply support for MAX24288ETK+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 timing ICs for industrial, communications, and automotive markets.

The MAX24288 product line delivers integrated IEEE 1588 timing and MII conversion for telecom infrastructure-designed specifically to replace discrete PHY + FPGA-based timestamping solutions in SFP line cards and timing-aware switches.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX24288ETK+T in a 1588 timing system?

The MAX24288ETK+T serves as a hardware-accelerated IEEE 1588 packet timestamper and clock subsystem. It identifies and timestamps PTP v1/v2 packets in both transmit and receive paths with ±1ns accuracy, steers its internal clock via software-controlled time/frequency adjustments, and supports ordinary, boundary, and transparent clock architectures. In the MAX24288ETK+T, this enables precise time synchronization without host CPU timestamp processing overhead.

Does the MAX24288ETK+T support SGMII and 1000BASE-X simultaneously?

No-the MAX24288ETK+T supports either SGMII revision 1.8 (in 4-, 6-, or 8-pin mode) or 1000BASE-X SerDes mode, but not both concurrently. Configuration is determined by strap pins and register settings at power-up. In 1000BASE-X mode, the MAX24288ETK+T interfaces directly with SFP optical modules; in SGMII mode, it connects to switch ICs or PHYs with SGMII interfaces.

Can the MAX24288ETK+T operate as a master clock for other devices?

Yes-the MAX24288ETK+T can function as a master clock by generating programmable output signals including 125MHz/N clocks and 1PPS time alignment pulses via GPO1/GPO2 pins. Its time engine supports direct time write and high-resolution frequency adjustment, allowing it to serve as a Stratum 3+ timing source for downstream slaves in telecom or industrial systems using the MAX24288ETK+T.

What interfaces are available to configure the MAX24288ETK+T registers?

The MAX24288ETK+T supports two configuration interfaces: MDIO (12.5MHz slave-only, compatible with IEEE 802.3) and SPI (25MHz 4-wire slave-only). Both provide full access to all control, status, timestamp FIFO, and packet classifier registers. MDIO is typically used for integration with Ethernet MACs or switches; SPI is preferred during bring-up, debug, or when MDIO is unavailable.

Is the MAX24288ETK+T compatible with synchronous Ethernet (SyncE)?

Yes-the MAX24288ETK+T provides full hardware support for synchronous Ethernet. Its transmit path can be frequency-locked to an external system clock applied to REFCLK, and its receive path bit clock (RCLK) is available on a GPIO pin for line-timing the entire system. This allows the MAX24288ETK+T to meet ITU-T G.8262 EEC-2 requirements when combined with appropriate oscillator and PLL design.