Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3370EXK

Overview

MAX3370EXK from Maxim Integrated is a bidirectional logic-level translator IC enabling voltage translation between 1.6V–5.5V (VL) and 2.5V–5.5V (VCC) domains, supporting up to 2Mbps data rates with 10pF load and featuring 100µA typical quiescent current. It operates in SC70-5 package and is used in I²C, SPI, and smart card reader interfaces where low-voltage ASICs interface with higher-voltage peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3370EXK datasheet, MAX3370EXK pinout, MAX3370EXK application, or MAX3370EXK equivalent, this device is selected for compact bidirectional level shifting in portable communication systems requiring minimal supply current, rail-to-rail signal integrity, and compatibility with open-drain and push-pull drivers across mixed-voltage domains.

Technical Context

The MAX3370EXK implements a passive-biased, bidirectional level-shifting architecture with internal 10kΩ pull-up resistors on both I/O VL and I/O VCC pins, enabling operation without external biasing. Its speed-up circuit reduces low-to-high propagation delay by activating transient pull-up switches for 320ns during rising edges.

It supports rail-to-rail driving at 2Mbps (10pF), 1Mbps (50pF), or 500kbps (30pF open-drain), with input thresholds referenced to VL and VCC (VIHL = VL − 0.2V, VIHC = VCC − 0.4V). VL must be ≤ VCC per design constraint, and no shutdown control pin is present-distinguishing it from the MAX3371 variant.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX3370EXK uses the SC70-5 surface-mount package (2.0mm × 1.25mm footprint, 0.95mm height), optimized for high-density portable designs. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official pin configuration diagram for MAX3370 SC70-5.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TXB0102DCUR and SN74AVC4T245PW, the MAX3370EXK provides the smallest SC70-5 footprint, integrated pull-ups eliminating external components, and speed-up circuitry for superior 2Mbps timing - making it optimal for space- and power-constrained I²C/SPI links where simplicity and signal fidelity are prioritized over multi-channel density.

Availability

MAX3370EXK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable communication devices, smart card readers, and handheld POS terminals requiring stable component supply, RoHS-compliant packaging, and long-term industrial availability.

Supply support for MAX3370EXK 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-reliability ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX3370EXK belongs to Maxim's logic-level translation product line, designed specifically for minimizing board space and power in battery-powered, multi-voltage portable electronics interfacing low-voltage ASICs with legacy peripherals.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported data rate for MAX3370EXK with a 50pF load?

The MAX3370EXK supports up to 1Mbps with a 50pF capacitive load when driven by an active (push-pull) source, as specified in its Electrical Characteristics table. This performance is achieved under VCC = +2.5V to +5.5V and VL = +1.6V to +5.5V conditions, with propagation delays maintained below 200ns for both rising and falling edges. The MAX3370EXK does not support open-drain driving at this load - that mode is limited to 500kbps with 30pF.

Does MAX3370EXK include a shutdown feature like the MAX3371?

No, the MAX3370EXK does not include a shutdown (SHDN) pin or function. Unlike the MAX3371, which features a dedicated SHDN input that reduces supply current to <1µA and places I/O pins in high-impedance state, the MAX3370EXK operates continuously whenever powered. This makes MAX3370EXK suitable for always-active signal paths where shutdown sequencing is unnecessary.

Can MAX3370EXK translate signals from 5V down to 1.6V?

Yes, the MAX3370EXK supports VL as low as +1.6V and VCC as high as +5.5V, with the requirement that VL ≤ VCC. Therefore, translating from a 5V domain (VCC = 5V) down to a 1.6V domain (VL = 1.6V) is fully supported. Input thresholds scale accordingly: VIHC = VCC − 0.4V = 4.6V (ensuring 5V logic high is recognized), and VIHL = VL − 0.2V = 1.4V (guaranteeing noise margin at the low-voltage side).

What package type is used by MAX3370EXK, and what are its dimensions?

The MAX3370EXK uses the SC70-5 package (package code X5+1), measuring 2.0mm × 1.25mm with a maximum height of 0.95mm. It has five leads, exposed pad-less construction, and is RoHS-compliant and lead(Pb)-free. This ultra-compact outline is ideal for space-constrained applications such as cell phone cradles and wearable communication modules.

Is external pull-up resistance required when using MAX3370EXK for I²C communication?

No, external pull-up resistors are not required for I²C use with the MAX3370EXK because it integrates 10kΩ pull-up resistors on both I/O VL and I/O VCC pins. These internal pull-ups satisfy I²C bus requirements for standard-mode (100kHz) and fast-mode (400kHz) operation when combined with appropriate bus capacitance (<400pF). External resistors would only be needed if stronger pull-up strength or voltage-level customization were required.