Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX2684EUE-T
- Part No.:
- MAX2684EUE-T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- RF Mixers
- Package:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX2684EUE-T.pdf
- Description:
- MIXER WITH SELECTABLE DOUBLER
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,500
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Product details
Overview
MAX2684EUE-T from Maxim Integrated is a high-performance 3.5GHz downconverter mixer optimized for digital microwave radio (DMR) and wireless local loop (WLL) systems operating in the 3.4–3.8GHz RF band, delivering +1dB conversion gain, +9.5dBm typical IIP3, 13.6dB noise figure, and 800–1000MHz IF output range with low-side LO injection capability.
For engineers reviewing the MAX2684EUE-T datasheet, MAX2684EUE-T pinout, MAX2684EUE-T application, or MAX2684EUE-T equivalent, this page provides verified RF mixer specifications, differential IF interface design guidance, LO doubler control logic behavior, bias resistor tuning effects on linearity vs. current, and validated alternatives for 900MHz IF broadband receiver front-ends.
Technical Context
The MAX2684EUE-T implements a double-balanced Gilbert-cell architecture with single-ended RF and LO inputs and differential open-collector IF outputs, enabling flexible interfacing to both single-ended and differential IF signal chains. Its internal LO frequency doubler-enabled via ENX2 logic control-supports external LO operation at either full frequency (LOX1) or half frequency (LOX2), with integrated LO filtering to suppress harmonics and spurious mixing products.
RF input operates across 3.4–3.8GHz with matched 50Ω termination; IF output is optimized for 800–1000MHz, requiring external pull-up inductors and matching networks. Bias current and linearity are externally adjustable via a single RBIAS resistor (820Ω–2kΩ) connected from BIAS to GND, allowing system-level trade-offs between IIP3 (+8 to +12dBm) and supply current (55–66mA).
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RF Frequency Range | 3.4GHz to 3.8GHz - supports WLL/DMR bands with guaranteed performance across full 400MHz span. |
| IF Frequency Range | 800MHz to 1000MHz - optimized for high-IF architectures reducing image interference and easing filter design. |
| Conversion Gain | +1dB typical - enables direct connection to high-speed ADCs or IF amplifiers without additional gain stages. |
| IIP3 | +9.5dBm typical - ensures robust two-tone linearity in dense RF environments like point-to-point microwave links. |
| Noise Figure | 13.6dB - balances sensitivity and dynamic range for receiver front-ends in licensed 3.5GHz spectrum. |
| Supply Voltage | +2.7V to +5.5V - compatible with common 3.3V and 5V system rails; supports wide thermal margin. |
| LO Injection Mode | Low-side only - simplifies LO synthesizer design by eliminating high-side image rejection requirements. |
Pinout & Package
MAX2684EUE-T is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with exposed paddle for thermal and RF grounding. The ultra-small footprint (5mm × 4.4mm) and low-inductance ground layout support stable 3.5GHz operation.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VCC (Pin 1) | Power supply input | Must be bypassed with 100pF capacitor near pin; powers all internal circuitry including LO doubler and mixer core. |
| GND (Pins 2,3,5,9,10,12,13,15, EP) | Ground reference | Multiple low-inductance connections required; exposed paddle must be soldered to PCB ground plane for RF stability. |
| RFIN (Pin 4) | RF input port | Single-ended 3.4–3.8GHz input requiring DC-blocking capacitor and impedance-matching network. |
| ENX2 (Pin 6) | LO doubler enable | Logic-low enables internal doubler (LOX2 active); logic-high disables doubler (LOX1 active), reducing current by 15mA. |
| BIAS (Pin 16) | Bias current control | Connects to GND via RBIAS resistor (820Ω–2kΩ) to set IIP3 and supply current per system linearity needs. |
| IFOUT+, IFOUT− (Pins 11,14) | Differential IF output | Open-collector outputs requiring external pull-up inductors to VCC and balanced matching network for 800–1000MHz. |
| LOX1 (Pin 8) | Full-frequency LO input | Used when ENX2 = high; accepts 2.4–2.9GHz LO for direct 3.4–3.8GHz downconversion. |
| LOX2 (Pin 7) | Half-frequency LO input | Used when ENX2 = low; accepts 1.2–1.45GHz LO, doubled internally to drive mixer at full RF frequency. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Selectably enabled LO frequency doubler | Reduces external LO synthesis complexity and VCO pulling risk by supporting 1.2–1.45GHz LO input instead of 2.4–2.9GHz. |
| Externally programmable bias | Single RBIAS resistor tunes IIP3 from +8dBm to +12dBm while adjusting supply current between 55mA and 66mA. |
| Differential open-collector IF outputs | Enables direct interface to transformer-coupled or balun-based IF stages, improving common-mode noise rejection at 900MHz. |
| Integrated LO bandpass filter | Suppresses LO harmonics before mixing, reducing spurious responses and easing post-mixer filtering requirements. |
| Ultra-small 16-pin TSSOP-EP package | Minimizes board area and parasitic inductance; exposed paddle ensures thermal dissipation and RF grounding at 3.5GHz. |
Applications
| Point-to-Point Microwave Radio | Fixed Wireless Access Base Station |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 3.5GHz licensed-band backhaul link transmitting 100Mbps+ data over 5–15km with strict spectral mask compliance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Downconverter mixer translating 3.6GHz RF to 900MHz IF for high-dynamic-range demodulation. Use Value: +9.5dBm IIP3 and 13.6dB noise figure maintain EVM <3% under multi-tone interference in outdoor deployments. |
Use Scenario: Outdoor CPE unit receiving 3.5GHz WLL signals in rural broadband access with co-channel interference. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end mixer providing high-IF output to simplify image-reject filtering and ADC driver design. Use Value: 800–1000MHz IF range avoids first-IF image overlap and enables compact SAW filter integration. |
| Wireless Broadband Customer Premises Equipment | ISM-Band Adjacent Spectrum Monitoring Receiver |
|
Use Scenario: Indoor subscriber unit operating in shared 3.5GHz CBRS spectrum with LTE/5G coexistence requirements. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Selective downconverter enabling simultaneous monitoring of multiple 5MHz channels via IF sampling. Use Value: Programmable bias allows real-time adjustment of linearity vs. power consumption during burst-mode reception. |
Use Scenario: Portable spectrum analyzer detecting unauthorized emissions near 3.5GHz ISM band edges. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-linearity mixer front-end supporting wide instantaneous bandwidth and low phase noise translation. Use Value: Low-side LO injection and integrated LO filtering minimize spurious responses critical for accurate spectral analysis. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar downconverter mixer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| HMC774ALC3B | Higher conversion gain (+10dB), wider RF range (2.5–5.0GHz), but requires dual-supply (±5V) and lacks LO doubler. | Preferred for lab-grade test equipment needing maximum gain; unsuitable for single-supply portable designs. | Choose HMC774ALC3B when absolute sensitivity outweighs power and integration constraints. |
| LT5560EDD#TRPBF | Lower IIP3 (+5.5dBm), narrower IF range (up to 500MHz), no LO doubler, but offers integrated LO buffer and lower supply current (22mA). | Targeted at cost-sensitive 2.4GHz WiFi receivers; not rated for 3.5GHz RF or 900MHz IF operation. | Choose LT5560EDD#TRPBF only for sub-3GHz IF applications where LO integration and low power dominate. |
Compared with HMC774ALC3B and LT5560EDD#TRPBF, the MAX2684EUE-T uniquely balances 3.5GHz RF performance, 900MHz IF capability, single-supply operation, and integrated LO doubling-making it optimal for production-ready DMR/WLL radios where size, power, and LO synthesis simplicity are critical.
Availability
MAX2684EUE-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for wireless broadband access, point-to-point microwave radio, and fixed wireless base station applications requiring stable component supply, long-term manufacturability, and consistent RF performance across temperature.
Supply support for MAX2684EUE-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 leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs, specializing in power management, precision analog, and communications solutions.
The MAX2683/MAX2684 product line was designed specifically for cost-sensitive, high-volume 3.5GHz wireless infrastructure applications-emphasizing integration, thermal efficiency, and ease of RF layout in compact TSSOP-EP packaging.
FAQ
What is the recommended RBIAS value for MAX2684EUE-T in a 900MHz IF receiver with +10dBm IIP3 target?
The MAX2684EUE-T achieves +10dBm IIP3 with an RBIAS resistor of approximately 1.0kΩ. At VCC = +5V and TA = +25°C, this setting yields ~60mA supply current and maintains conversion gain within ±0.3dB of the +1dB typical spec. Always verify performance across temperature using the IIP3 vs. RBIAS curves in the MAX2684EUE-T datasheet.
Can MAX2684EUE-T operate with high-side LO injection?
No, the MAX2684EUE-T is explicitly optimized for low-side LO injection only, as confirmed in its General Description and AC Electrical Characteristics tables. Attempting high-side injection results in degraded conversion gain, increased LO leakage, and unguaranteed IIP3 performance-use MAX2683EUE-T for high-side-capable operation.
How does ENX2 logic level affect LO port selection and current draw in MAX2684EUE-T?
When ENX2 is driven low, the MAX2684EUE-T enables its internal LO doubler and routes the external LO signal to LOX2 (1.2–1.45GHz); supply current is ~66mA. When ENX2 is high, the doubler is bypassed and LO is applied to LOX1 (2.4–2.9GHz); supply current drops by 15mA to ~51mA, per the "Supply Current Reduction when LO Doubler is Disabled" specification.
What is the function of the exposed paddle (EP) on the MAX2684EUE-T TSSOP-EP package?
The exposed paddle (EP) on the MAX2684EUE-T serves as both thermal conduction path and RF ground reference. It must be soldered uniformly to the PCB's solid ground plane using multiple thermal vias to ensure stable 3.5GHz operation, minimize junction temperature rise, and reduce ground inductance that could degrade LO suppression and noise figure.
Does MAX2684EUE-T require external balun circuitry for its differential IF outputs?
The MAX2684EUE-T's IFOUT+ and IFOUT− pins are differential open-collector outputs and do not require a balun for differential IF processing. However, if interfacing to a single-ended ADC or amplifier, a wideband 1:1 center-tapped transformer or active balun is needed-designers should select components rated for 800–1000MHz with ≤0.3dB insertion loss to preserve the +1dB conversion gain.
MAX2684EUE-T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width) Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- RF Type:
- General Purpose
- Frequency:
- 3.4GHz ~ 3.8GHz
- Number of Mixers:
- 1
- Gain:
- 6.7dB
- Noise Figure:
- 13.6dB
- Secondary Attributes:
- Down Converter
- Current - Supply:
- 55mA
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 5.5V
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TSSOP-EP
MAX2684EUE-T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX2684EUE-T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX2684EUE-T on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX2684EUE-T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX2684EUE-T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX2684EUE-T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX2684EUE-T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX2684EUE-T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX2684EUE-T?
MAX2684EUE-T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX2684EUE-T order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX2684EUE-T?
For technical support, including MAX2684EUE-T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX2684EUE-T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX2684EUE-T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX2684EUE-T products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX2684EUE-T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX2684EUE-T?
All MAX2684EUE-T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX2684EUE-T, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX2684EUE-T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX2684EUE-T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX2684EUE-T Tags

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MAX2671EUT+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated

-
ADEX-10+
Mini-Circuits

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ADE-2+
Mini-Circuits

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ADE-1+
Mini-Circuits

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LT5560EDD#PBF
Analog Devices Inc.

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LT5560EDD#TRPBF
Analog Devices Inc.

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LTC5562IUC#TRPBF
Analog Devices Inc.

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MAX2681EUT+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated

-
ADE-1ASK+
Mini-Circuits

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ADE-1L+
Mini-Circuits

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ADL5350ACPZ-R7
Analog Devices Inc.

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AD608ARZ-RL
Analog Devices Inc.
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