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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3296CHJ
- Part No.:
- MAX3296CHJ
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Laser Drivers
- Package:
- 32-TQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MAX3296CHJ.pdf
- Description:
- LAN LASER DRIVER
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:10,858
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Product details
Overview
MAX3296CHJ from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5Gbps fiber-optic laser driver IC optimized for Gigabit Ethernet and Fibre Channel optical transmitters. It integrates bias generator with automatic power control (APC), high-speed laser modulator, dual enable/shutdown safety circuitry, and programmable temperature compensation. Delivers 30mA modulation current with 7ps deterministic jitter and operates from +3.0V to +5.5V supply.
For engineers reviewing the MAX3296CHJ datasheet, MAX3296CHJ pinout, MAX3296CHJ application, or MAX3296CHJ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated TQFP-32 pin functions, confirmed safety-critical features, and two rigorously cross-checked alternative parts for 2.5Gbps LAN laser driver selection.
Technical Context
The MAX3296CHJ implements a dual-path modulation current architecture: RMOD sets the temperature-stable component (typ. 1.9kΩ for 30mA), while RTC programs the temperature-increasing component (up to 4000ppm/°C). Its APC loop closes via MD input to maintain constant average optical power using external PNP/NPN bias transistor driven by BIASDRV.
Safety architecture includes latched dual FAULT outputs, programmable FLTDLY startup delay, redundant SHDNDRV shutdown driver, and fault detection on MD, REF, MON, POL, MODSET, and TC pins - all compliant with single-point fault tolerance requirements for Class 1 laser systems.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rate | 2.5Gbps - supports Fibre Channel FC-PI-2 and IEEE 802.3z 1000BASE-SX/LX physical layer timing budgets. |
| Deterministic Jitter | 7ps peak-to-peak - provides 86% margin against Fibre Channel DJ limit (50ps) and exceeds Gigabit Ethernet spec. |
| Laser Modulation Current | 30mA - sufficient to drive 1310nm FP/DFB lasers and 850nm VCSELs in low-cost TO-46 packages at full 2.5Gbps. |
| Supply Voltage Range | +3.0V to +5.5V - enables direct interface with 3.3V or 5V system rails without level-shifting. |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to +70°C - qualified for commercial-grade optical module environments including SFP transceivers. |
| Package | 32-pin TQFP (5mm × 5mm) - surface-mount footprint compatible with automated optical subassembly (OSA) placement. |
| APC Mode | Automatic Power Control with MD feedback or constant-current mode - eliminates need for external DAC or microcontroller closed-loop control. |
Pinout & Package
MAX3296CHJ is housed in a 32-pin TQFP package (5mm × 5mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed pad soldered to PCB ground for thermal management. Pin numbering follows standard TQFP convention (pin 1 at top-left corner, counterclockwise).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 | GND / VCC / Signal I/O | Pin mapping matches MAX3286CHJ TQFP layout per datasheet Figure 1; 11× VCC pins ensure low-impedance power delivery; 4× GND pins plus EP provide robust return path for high-speed modulation current. |
| 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32 | Signal I/O | Confirmed pin functions per datasheet Table: EN/EN (dual enable), FAULT/FAULT (complementary latched fault outputs), OUT+/OUT− (differential modulation current outputs), MD/MON/REF (APC and bias monitoring), MODSET/TC (modulation current programming), POL/POL (laser polarity configuration). |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual-redundant safety architecture | Independent EN/EN inputs and FAULT/FAULT outputs meet IEC 60825-1 single-point fault tolerance for Class 1 laser products. |
| Programmable temperature compensation | Adjustable tempco (0–4000ppm/°C) via RTC resistor ensures extinction ratio stability across 0°C–70°C ambient range. |
| Integrated power-on reset with delay | PORDLY capacitor-programmable delay prevents false fault assertion during APC loop stabilization at startup. |
| Selectable laser pinning | POL/POL inputs configure common-anode or common-cathode laser interfaces without external logic or board redesign. |
| 30mA high-speed modulation driver | Capable of driving 25Ω laser loads at 2.5Gbps with <7ps DJ - eliminates need for external current amplifiers in SFP modules. |
Applications
| Gigabit Ethernet Optical Transmitter | Fibre Channel Optical Transmitter |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 1000BASE-SX transceiver in enterprise switches using 850nm VCSELs over multimode fiber. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Laser driver providing 2.5Gbps NRZ modulation, APC-based bias control, and safety shutdown for Class 1 compliance. Use Value: Enables plug-and-play SFP compatibility with guaranteed DJ margin and automatic optical power stabilization across temperature. |
Use Scenario: 1GFC/2GFC line card in storage area network (SAN) switches interfacing with 1310nm DFB lasers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-fidelity 2.5Gbps laser modulator with deterministic jitter ≤7ps and integrated fault detection for link integrity. Use Value: Meets FC-PI-2 eye mask requirements while reducing bill-of-materials via integrated bias generator and safety circuits. |
| ATM LAN Optical Transmitter | Optical Network Unit (ONU) Upstream Interface |
Use Scenario: ATM over SONET OC-3 (155Mbps) or OC-12 (622Mbps) optical line termination equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Programmable laser driver supporting multiple data rates via RMOD/RTC configuration and flexible laser polarity. Use Value: Single-footprint solution for legacy ATM infrastructure upgrades without redesigning laser bias networks. |
Use Scenario: GPON ONU upstream burst-mode transmitter using 1310nm FP laser diodes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-enable laser driver with <5µs EN reset time and SHDNDRV-controlled shutdown for burst-mode timing alignment. Use Value: Supports precise burst gate timing and optical power consistency required for TDMA upstream channel sharing. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar 2.5Gbps laser driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3297ETD+ | 16-pin TSSOP-EP package; identical electrical specs but smaller footprint and no FLTDLY pin. | Targeted for space-constrained SFP+ modules where TQFP thermal mass is unnecessary. | Choose MAX3297ETD+ when board area is critical and startup fault delay is managed externally. |
| LMH6525MT/NOPB | 3.3V-only supply; no integrated APC or safety circuitry; requires external bias control and fault monitoring. | Used in custom optical engines where full system-level safety logic resides in FPGA or MCU. | Choose LMH6525MT/NOPB only when full control over bias loop and fault response is required and safety certification is handled at system level. |
Compared with MAX3296CHJ, MAX3297ETD+ offers identical 2.5Gbps performance in a smaller package but lacks FLTDLY programmability, while LMH6525MT/NOPB demands external support circuitry for APC and safety - making MAX3296CHJ the only drop-in solution for certified Class 1 optical modules requiring integrated fault tolerance.
Availability
MAX3296CHJ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Gigabit Ethernet transceivers, Fibre Channel line cards, and ATM optical terminals requiring stable component supply across extended production cycles.
Supply support for MAX3296CHJ 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) designs precision analog and mixed-signal ICs for communications, computing, and industrial applications.
The MAX3296CHJ belongs to the MAX3286/MAX3296 laser driver family, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, safety-certified 1.25Gbps/2.5Gbps fiber-optic LAN transmitters using TO-46-packaged lasers.
FAQ
What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX3296CHJ?
The MAX3296CHJ is specified for 2.5Gbps operation, meeting Fibre Channel FC-PI-2 and IEEE 802.3z 1000BASE-LX/SX requirements. Its 7ps deterministic jitter and 30mA modulation current ensure reliable eye opening at this rate with 1310nm DFB or 850nm VCSEL lasers. The MAX3296CHJ does not support 10Gbps or higher data rates.
Does the MAX3296CHJ support automatic power control (APC) for lasers without a monitor photodiode?
No - the MAX3296CHJ requires a monitor photodiode connection to the MD pin to close the APC loop. For lasers without a monitor diode, the MAX3296CHJ operates in constant-current bias mode using the REF and MON pins to set fixed bias current, but optical power regulation is not maintained across temperature or aging.
What package type is used for the MAX3296CHJ?
The MAX3296CHJ uses a 32-pin TQFP package measuring 5mm × 5mm with 0.5mm pitch and an exposed thermal pad. This differs from the QFN variants (e.g., MAX3296CTI+) and TSSOP variants (e.g., MAX3297ETD+), and is explicitly listed in the Ordering Information table for MAX3296CHJ.
How is laser polarity configured on the MAX3296CHJ?
Laser polarity is set using the POL and POL pins per Table 4 in the datasheet: for common-cathode lasers, POL = VCC and POL = GND; for common-anode lasers, POL = GND and POL = VCC. Incorrect polarity configuration causes immediate latch-up fault on FAULT/FAULT outputs.
Can the MAX3296CHJ drive both shortwave (850nm) and longwave (1310nm) lasers?
Yes - the MAX3296CHJ is explicitly designed to drive conventional shortwave (780–850nm), longwave (1300nm), and VCSEL lasers. Its 30mA modulation current, adjustable tempco, and APC loop support all three types when configured with appropriate external components (e.g., RMOD, RTC, and bias transistor).
MAX3296CHJ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 32-TQFP
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Laser Diode Driver (Fiber Optic)
- Data Rate:
- 2.5Gbps
- Number of Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Current - Supply:
- 52 mA
- Current - Modulation:
- 30mA
- Current - Bias:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 32-TQFP (5x5)
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
MAX3296CHJ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX3296CHJ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX3296CHJ 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 MAX3296CHJ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX3296CHJ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX3296CHJ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX3296CHJ?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX3296CHJ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX3296CHJ?
MAX3296CHJ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX3296CHJ 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 MAX3296CHJ?
For technical support, including MAX3296CHJ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX3296CHJ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX3296CHJ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX3296CHJ 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 MAX3296CHJ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX3296CHJ?
All MAX3296CHJ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX3296CHJ, 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 MAX3296CHJ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX3296CHJ:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX3296CHJ Tags
-
EPC21701
EPC
-
EPC21601
EPC
-
MAX3799ETJ+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
AD9665ACPZ-REEL7
Analog Devices Inc.
-
MAX3740AETG+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
MAX3795ETG+
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
EPC21603
EPC
-
ONET8501VRGPT
Texas Instruments
-
MAX3738ETG+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
SY88022ALMG-TR
Microchip Technology
-
ISL78365ARZ-T7A
Renesas
-
EPC21603ENGRT
EPC
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