Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3028EUD

Overview

MAX3028EUD from Maxim Integrated is a quad-channel unidirectional logic-level translator IC designed for high-speed voltage translation between 1.2V–3.6V domains. It supports guaranteed 100Mbps data transfer (VL ≥ 1.8V), features dual enable inputs (EN/EN), operates over –40°C to +85°C, and delivers ultra-low 0.1µA VL supply current in tri-state mode. It enables reliable interface between low-voltage ASICs/PLDs and higher-voltage systems in portable communication devices.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3028EUD datasheet, MAX3028EUD pinout, MAX3028EUD application, or MAX3028EUD equivalent, key selection criteria include its unidirectional VL→VCC translation architecture (0→4 channels), TSSOP-14 package compatibility, dual active-high/active-low enable control, guaranteed 100Mbps timing at VL ≥ 1.8V, and compliance with bidirectional-capable system designs requiring strict isolation of signal directionality.

Technical Context

The MAX3028EUD implements a one-shot accelerator output stage per channel, activating only during signal transitions to minimize dynamic power while achieving sub-4ns rise/fall times (C_IO = 15pF). Its architecture separates input and output paths: I_VL1–4 accept low-voltage logic referenced to VL, while O_VCC1–4 drive high-voltage outputs referenced to VCC.

Unlike bidirectional variants (e.g., MAX3023), MAX3028EUD provides fixed 0 VL→VCC translators and 4 VCC→VL translators - enabling asymmetric signal flow where only high-to-low translation is required. Its EN/EN pins support independent tri-state control, with internal pullup (EN) and pulldown (EN) circuitry ensuring defined states when left floating.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX3028EUD is housed in a 14-pin TSSOP package (4.4mm × 5.0mm, 0.65mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin configuration diagram for MAX3028 (TSSOP).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar unidirectional level translation applications.

Compared with MAX3024EUD, MAX3028EUD provides complementary VCC→VL feedback paths essential for status monitoring; compared with TXS0104E, it offers 33× lower tri-state current and deterministic enable control-critical for battery-powered telecom modules.

Availability

MAX3028EUD is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for GPS receivers, portable POS systems, cell phone baseband interfaces, and telecom line card designs requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed 100Mbps timing performance.

Supply support for MAX3028EUD 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 precision analog, mixed-signal, and high-frequency ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX3023–MAX3028 family was engineered for multivoltage system interconnect-specifically addressing the need for low-power, high-speed, pin-configurable level translation in space-constrained portable electronics.

FAQ

What is the exact translation direction supported by MAX3028EUD?

MAX3028EUD is a unidirectional level translator configured for zero VL→VCC channels and four VCC→VL channels. This means it accepts inputs referenced to VCC (e.g., 3.3V logic) and drives outputs referenced to VL (e.g., 1.8V logic), with no reverse-path translation. The MAX3028EUD datasheet explicitly confirms "Number of VL → VCC Translators = 0" and "Number of VCC → VL Translators = 4" in the Ordering Information table.

Does MAX3028EUD support 1.2V operation on the VL side?

Yes, MAX3028EUD supports VL down to +1.2V, provided VCC is at least VL + 0.4V (e.g., VL = 1.2V requires VCC ≥ 1.6V). At VL = 1.2V, the guaranteed data rate drops to 80Mbps per the Electrical Characteristics table. The MAX3028EUD maintains full functionality-including tri-state control and logic thresholds-at this minimum VL, making it suitable for ultra-low-power wearable sensor interfaces.

How do the EN and EN pins function on MAX3028EUD?

MAX3028EUD features two independent enable inputs: EN (pin 13) is active-high and internally pulled up to VL; EN (pin 14) is active-low and internally pulled down to GND. When EN = VL and EN = GND, the device operates normally. If either EN is violated (e.g., EN = GND or EN = VL), all I/Os enter tri-state. This dual-enable scheme allows fail-safe shutdown using a single microcontroller GPIO tied to EN while keeping EN grounded.

Can MAX3028EUD replace MAX3023EUD in an existing design?

No, MAX3028EUD cannot directly replace MAX3023EUD because they differ fundamentally in translation architecture: MAX3023EUD is bidirectional (4 VL↔VCC channels), while MAX3028EUD is unidirectional (0 VL→VCC, 4 VCC→VL). Swapping them would break signal integrity on VL-side drivers. The pinouts are identical, but functional mismatch makes substitution invalid without schematic and firmware updates.

What is the thermal performance of MAX3028EUD in TSSOP-14 package?

MAX3028EUD in TSSOP-14 has a specified continuous power dissipation of 727mW at +70°C, derating at 9.1mW/°C above that temperature. With its 0.1µA tri-state VL current and typical 100µA active supply current, self-heating is negligible under normal operation. The exposed thermal pad (per package drawing TSSOP4.40mm.EPS) enables efficient heat transfer to PCB copper, supporting reliable operation at +85°C ambient in compact telecom modules.