Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3288CUE

Overview

MAX3288CUE from Maxim Integrated is a 1.25Gbps laser driver IC optimized for Gigabit Ethernet optical transmitters, integrating bias generation with automatic power control (APC), high-speed modulation (30mA peak), deterministic jitter of 22ps, and dual-fault-safety circuitry. It supports common-cathode and common-anode laser configurations and drives shortwave (780–850nm) or longwave (1300nm) laser diodes and VCSELs in fiber-optic LAN modules.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3288CUE datasheet, MAX3288CUE pinout, MAX3288CUE application, or MAX3288CUE equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, safety-critical timing behavior, temperature-compensated modulation current programming, and TSSOP-EP package layout guidance - all essential for optical transmitter design compliance with IEEE 802.3 and Fibre Channel standards.

Technical Context

The MAX3288CUE implements a dual-loop safety architecture: APC closes via MD feedback to maintain constant average optical power across temperature, while independent fault detection monitors REF, MON, MD, POL, MODSET, TC, and supply rails. Its modulator uses a high-speed current switch with programmable tempco (via RMOD/RTC) to stabilize extinction ratio over –40°C to +85°C ambient.

It features deterministic jitter of 22ps (1.25Gbps), 30mA laser modulation current into 25Ω, and dual enable/shutdown paths (EN/EN, SHDNDRV) for single-point fault tolerance. The integrated POR circuit provides glitch-rejected startup with user-programmable delay via PORDLY capacitor, and FLTDLY enables configurable fault hold-off during APC loop stabilization.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX3288CUE is housed in a 16-pin thermally enhanced TSSOP-EP (exposed pad) package measuring 5mm × 4.4mm × 1.1mm, with the EP pad electrically and thermally connected to GND per Maxim's layout guidelines.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar laser driver applications.

Compared with MAX3288CUE, MAX3286CTI+ trades thermal reliability for compactness, while MAX3298CUE extends bandwidth and jitter margin at identical package size - enabling seamless migration paths within Maxim's laser driver family without PCB redesign.

Availability

MAX3288CUE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Gigabit Ethernet optical transceivers, Fibre Channel modules, ATM LAN systems, and industrial fiber data links requiring stable component supply and long-term lifecycle support.

Supply support for MAX3288CUE 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, computing, and industrial markets.

The MAX3286/MAX3296 series was designed specifically for fiber-optic LAN laser drivers, emphasizing safety-critical fault tolerance, APC stability, and jitter-controlled modulation for standards-compliant optical transmitters.

FAQ

What is the maximum laser modulation current supported by the MAX3288CUE?

The MAX3288CUE supports up to 30mA of laser modulation current into a 25Ω load, as confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table (page 3). This value is maintained across the full 0°C to +70°C operating range when configured with appropriate RMOD and RTC resistors. The MAX3288CUE achieves this while preserving deterministic jitter ≤22ps and ensuring OUT+/OUT− voltages remain ≥VCC − 1V - critical for meeting Gigabit Ethernet eye diagram requirements.

Does the MAX3288CUE support both common-cathode and common-anode laser configurations?

Yes, the MAX3288CUE supports both configurations via the POL and POL̅ pins, as defined in Table 4 of the datasheet. Setting POL = VCC and POL̅ = GND configures common-cathode mode; reversing these states enables common-anode operation. Incorrect polarity (e.g., both high or both low) triggers an immediate fault condition - a safety feature explicitly documented in the Pin Description section.

How is Automatic Power Control (APC) implemented in the MAX3288CUE?

The MAX3288CUE implements APC using its MD pin as a feedback node connected to the laser's monitor photodiode anode/cathode. The internal power-control amplifier adjusts BIASDRV output to maintain 1.7V at MD, thereby stabilizing average optical power. REF voltage (2.65 − 2.25(VCC − VMON)) sets the target current via RSET, and CBIASDRV (0.1µF typical) ensures loop stability with >1µs time constant - all verified in the Detailed Description and Design Procedure sections.

What package type does the MAX3288CUE use, and why is the exposed pad important?

The MAX3288CUE uses a 16-pin TSSOP-EP package with an exposed thermal pad. Per Maxim's Layout Considerations (page 7), this pad must be soldered directly to the PCB ground plane to achieve θ_JA = 42°C/W and prevent junction temperatures exceeding 150°C under full 2300mW dissipation. Omitting EP pad connection degrades thermal performance and risks jitter increase or premature failure - a requirement explicitly stated in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table.

Can the MAX3288CUE be used in 2.5Gbps applications?

No, the MAX3288CUE is rated exclusively for 1.25Gbps operation, as specified in the Ordering Information and General Description. Its deterministic jitter is characterized at 22ps for 1.25Gbps (Figure toc06), and the MAX3296/MAX3298 series - not MAX3288CUE - are designated for 2.5Gbps. Attempting 2.5Gbps operation violates the device's AC specifications and may result in non-compliant eye diagrams or increased bit error rates.