Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX2842ETN+
- Part No.:
- MAX2842ETN+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Telecom
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MAX2842ETN+.pdf
- Description:
- TELECOM IC, BICMOS, PQCC56
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:8,830
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX2842ETN+ from Maxim Integrated is a 3.3GHz–3.9GHz direct-conversion MIMO RF transceiver IC with dual transmit and dual receive paths, differential RF I/O, integrated fractional-N PLL (25Hz step), on-chip AM detector for Tx I/Q imbalance/LO leakage measurement, and programmable monolithic Rx/Tx lowpass filters (3.5–10MHz). It delivers 0dBm linear OFDMA output (64-QAM), 3.8dB receiver noise figure, and supports full-duplex external loopback in WiMAX 16d/16e base stations.
For engineers reviewing the MAX2842ETN+ datasheet, MAX2842ETN+ pinout, MAX2842ETN+ application, or MAX2842ETN+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world calibration capabilities (Tx-to-Rx loopback, on-chip DC cancellation), RF performance metrics across gain states, and validated alternative transceivers for 3.3–3.9GHz NLOS broadband systems.
Technical Context
The MAX2842ETN+ implements a zero-IF architecture with fully integrated VCO/tank, sigma-delta fractional-N synthesizer (50µs channel hop to ±50Hz), and independent digital control of both Tx and Rx gain (60dB Tx, 71dB Rx range via SPI). Its dual-path design enables simultaneous MIMO operation with 45dB Tx–Tx and 25dB Rx–Rx isolation.
It integrates programmable baseband filtering (configurable for 3.5/5/7/10MHz channels), automatic and modem-assisted I/Q DC offset correction, and on-chip crystal oscillator with digital tuning - eliminating external SAW filters and reducing BOM count in compact 3GHz WiMAX front-ends.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| RF Frequency Range | 3.3GHz to 3.9GHz - covers entire WiMAX 16d/16e 3GHz band without re-tuning. |
| Receiver Noise Figure | 3.8dB at max gain - enables high sensitivity for -72.5dBm signal detection in 10MHz channels. |
| Transmit Output Power | 0dBm (64-QAM, EVM = -36dB) - meets WiMAX spectral mask (-65dB relative) without external PA. |
| Frequency Step Size | ~25Hz - supports fine-grained frequency agility and precise carrier alignment in multi-user MIMO. |
| Rx Gain Control Range | 71dB digitally controlled via SPI - accommodates >60dB dynamic input range in NLOS environments. |
| Channel Hopping Time | 50µs settling to ±50Hz - enables rapid frequency switching for interference avoidance and TDD scheduling. |
| Supply Voltage | +2.7V to +3.6V - compatible with single Li-ion or regulated 3.3V system rails. |
| Package | 56-pin TQFN (7mm × 7mm, exposed paddle) - thermally optimized for high-power RF operation up to +85°C. |
Pinout & Package
The MAX2842ETN+ is housed in a 56-pin TQFN-EP package (7mm × 7mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal paddle. Pin functions are defined per the MAX2842 Evaluation Kit schematic and datasheet Figures 1–3.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| RXINA+, RXINA- | Differential RF input A | 100Ω balanced interface for antenna/receiver chain A; S11 ≤ -10dB across 3.3–3.9GHz. |
| RXINB+, RXINB- | Differential RF input B | 100Ω balanced interface for antenna/receiver chain B; 25dB isolation from RXINA path. |
| TXOUTA+, TXOUTA- | Differential RF output A | Drives balun or filter network; 6dB return loss minimum; supports 0dBm OFDMA output. |
| TXOUTB+, TXOUTB- | Differential RF output B | Independent Tx path with ≤2dB gain mismatch vs. TXOUTA across full band. |
| TXBBIA+, TXBBIA-, etc. | Differential I/Q baseband inputs | 25kΩ || 1pF impedance; accepts 90mVRMS 1MHz sine/cosine signals for modulation. |
| RXBBIA+, RXBBIA-, etc. | Differential I/Q baseband outputs | 90mVRMS typical; common-mode voltage programmable (0.77–1.32V) via register D5:D4. |
| SCLK, DIN, DOUT, CS | 4-wire SPI interface | 45MHz max clock; 6ns timing margins; enables full register access for calibration and mode control. |
| ENABLE, TXRX | Power and mode control | Enable/disable entire IC; select Tx/Rx/loopback modes with <2µs turnaround time. |
| REF_OSC | Reference oscillator input | AC-coupled 44.8MHz (0.8VP-P); supports 19–80MHz crystal or clock source. |
| VCC_, GND, EP | Power and ground | Single 2.7–3.6V supply; exposed paddle must be soldered for thermal dissipation & noise reduction. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| On-chip Tx I/Q gain/phase error and LO leakage detection | Integrated AM detector enables closed-loop calibration without external test equipment. |
| Transmit-to-receive loopback mode | Validates and corrects Rx I/Q imbalance using internal signal path - no RF loop cables required. |
| Fully integrated programmable Rx/Tx lowpass filters | Monolithic filters support 3.5/5/7/10MHz channel bandwidths - eliminates external SAW components. |
| Automatic on-chip receiver I/Q DC cancellation | One-shot convergence in <7µs after Rx enable - maintains EVM under fast AGC transitions. |
| Fractional-N PLL with 50µs channel hopping | Settles to ±50Hz in 50µs - meets WiMAX TDD frame timing and interference mitigation requirements. |
| Digital control for Tx/Rx/shutdown/standby modes | All operational states controlled via SPI registers - enables deterministic power sequencing in SoC designs. |
Applications
| WiMAX Base Station Radio Unit | 3G MIMO Fixed Wireless Access |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Dual-polarized 2×2 MIMO radio unit in outdoor WiMAX 16d/16e base station operating at 3.5GHz. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary RF transceiver handling full-duplex OFDMA uplink/downlink with integrated frequency synthesis and I/Q calibration. Use Value: Eliminates external SAW filters and discrete VCOs, reducing bill-of-materials by 12+ components while maintaining -65dB spectral mask compliance. |
Use Scenario: Compact CPE gateway for fixed wireless broadband in rural deployments with NLOS propagation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel transceiver enabling spatial diversity reception and adaptive beamforming via independent Rx gain control. Use Value: 3.8dB NF and 71dB Rx gain range support -72.5dBm sensitivity in fading channels; 50µs PLL settling enables rapid frequency agility against interferers. |
| Point-to-Multipoint Backhaul Radio | WiMAX Subscriber Module |
|
Use Scenario: Outdoor backhaul radio linking cell sites over 5km with 10MHz channel bandwidth. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-featured transceiver providing calibrated I/Q paths, RSSI monitoring, and loopback-based self-test for field maintenance. Use Value: On-chip AM detector and Tx-to-Rx loopback allow factory and field calibration without spectrum analyzer - cutting test time by 65%. |
Use Scenario: Indoor WiMAX subscriber module with integrated antenna and Ethernet bridge. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power MIMO transceiver supporting standby mode (≤10µA) and fast wake-up (<2µs) for energy-efficient operation. Use Value: Single 3.3V supply and 56-pin TQFN package enable PCB footprint <120mm² - critical for space-constrained indoor enclosures. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar MIMO RF transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| AD9375BBCZ | Wider band (300MHz–6GHz), JESD204B interface, higher power consumption (2.4W), larger 144-BGA package. | Targets LTE/5G macro base stations; requires FPGA or ASIC with high-speed serial interface. | Select when multi-band flexibility and higher integration (integrated ADC/DAC, digital pre-distortion) outweigh size and power constraints. |
| LMX2594RHAR | PLL-only device (no RF transceiver paths); supports 10MHz–15GHz, ultra-low phase noise (-42dBc @ 100kHz), no integrated filters or I/Q circuitry. | Used as local oscillator source for discrete transceiver designs - not a functional replacement. | Select only as companion synthesizer in hybrid architectures where MAX2842ETN+ handles RF conversion and LMX2594 provides ultra-clean LO. |
Compared with AD9375BBCZ and LMX2594RHAR, the MAX2842ETN+ uniquely combines 3.3–3.9GHz MIMO transceiver functionality, monolithic filtering, and on-chip calibration in a compact 7mm × 7mm package - making it optimal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained WiMAX 16d/16e radios where full-band coverage and SAW-free design are mandatory.
Availability
MAX2842ETN+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for WiMAX base station radios, fixed wireless access gateways, point-to-multipoint backhaul units, and subscriber modules requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C).
Supply support for MAX2842ETN+ 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 semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF solutions for communications, industrial, and automotive markets.
The MAX2842ETN+ belongs to Maxim's broadband RF transceiver product line, designed specifically for 3GHz NLOS wireless broadband MIMO systems including WiMAX 16d/16e infrastructure equipment.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX2842ETN+?
The MAX2842ETN+ is rated for continuous operation from -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. Its VCO maintains lock across this full range, and all AC/DC specifications - including 3.8dB noise figure and 0dBm transmit output - are guaranteed within these limits per the datasheet's characterization and design validation.
Does the MAX2842ETN+ require external SAW filters?
No, the MAX2842ETN+ does not require external SAW filters. It integrates fully programmable monolithic lowpass filters for both receiver and transmitter paths, supporting channel bandwidths of 3.5MHz, 5MHz, 7MHz, and 10MHz - meeting WiMAX spectral mask requirements without discrete filtering components.
How does the MAX2842ETN+ perform I/Q calibration?
The MAX2842ETN+ performs I/Q calibration using two methods: (1) an on-chip AM detector measures Tx I/Q gain/phase error and LO leakage directly, and (2) an internal transmit-to-receive loopback mode allows measurement and correction of Rx I/Q imbalance - both executed via SPI-controlled register writes without external instrumentation.
What is the RF output power capability of the MAX2842ETN+?
The MAX2842ETN+ delivers 0dBm linear output power under 64-QAM OFDMA modulation with EVM = -36dB and meets the -65dB relative spectral emission mask. Its output P-1dB is 10dBm, and RF gain control offers 60dB range via 6-bit SPI register (D5:D0), with binary-weighted steps of 1–32dB.
Is the MAX2842ETN+ pin-compatible with other Maxim transceivers?
The MAX2842ETN+ is not pin-compatible with other Maxim transceivers such as the MAX2837 or MAX2839. Its 56-pin TQFN layout, RF I/O placement, power pin distribution, and SPI register map are unique to the MAX2842 family and optimized for dual-path 3.3–3.9GHz MIMO operation.
MAX2842ETN+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- *
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- -
- Interface:
- -
- Number of Circuits:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
MAX2842ETN+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX2842ETN+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX2842ETN+ 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 MAX2842ETN+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX2842ETN+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX2842ETN+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX2842ETN+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX2842ETN+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX2842ETN+?
MAX2842ETN+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX2842ETN+ 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 MAX2842ETN+?
For technical support, including MAX2842ETN+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX2842ETN+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX2842ETN+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX2842ETN+ 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 MAX2842ETN+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX2842ETN+?
All MAX2842ETN+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX2842ETN+, 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 MAX2842ETN+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX2842ETN+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX2842ETN+ Tags

-
LMC567CMX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
LM567CMX/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
LM567CM/NOPB
Texas Instruments

-
VSC8531XMW-02
Microchip Technology

-
VSC8531XMW-05
Microchip Technology

-
GPY115C0VI
MaxLinear, Inc.
-
SI32185-A-FMR
Skyworks Solutions Inc.
-
VSC8541XMV-05
Microchip Technology

-
SI32178-B-FM1R
Skyworks Solutions Inc.

-
GPY215C0VI
MaxLinear, Inc.

-
CPC7514ZTR
Littelfuse Inc.

-
VSC8502XML-03
Microchip Technology
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…

