Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3370EXK+T

Overview

The MAX3370EXK+T from Maxim Integrated is a bidirectional logic-level translator IC designed for interfacing low-voltage ASICs (≥1.6V) with higher-voltage systems (up to +5.5V), supporting 2Mbps push-pull data transfer at 10pF load, operating across -40°C to +85°C, and housed in a 5-pin SC70 package. It enables reliable voltage-domain bridging in portable communication interfaces without direction control pins.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3370EXK+T datasheet, MAX3370EXK+T pinout, MAX3370EXK+T application, or MAX3370EXK+T equivalent, this device is selected for I²C/SPI level translation where VL = 1.6V–5.5V and VCC = 2.5V–5.5V must be maintained with VL ≤ VCC, low quiescent current (<100µA), and rail-to-rail bidirectional signal integrity.

Technical Context

The MAX3370EXK+T implements a passive-bidirectional architecture using internal 10kΩ pull-up resistors on both I/O VL and I/O VCC lines, enabling open-drain compatibility without external components. Its speed-up circuit reduces low-to-high propagation delay by temporarily activating pull-up switches for 320ns during transitions.

It operates exclusively in active mode-lacking SHDN pin-so it delivers continuous bidirectional translation between two independent voltage domains, with input thresholds defined as VIHL = VL − 0.2V and VIHC = VCC − 0.4V, ensuring robust noise margins across its full supply range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX3370EXK+T is packaged in a 5-pin SC70 (1.6mm × 1.6mm × 0.95mm) surface-mount package with wettable flanks, optimized for space-constrained portable designs.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TXS0102DCUR and SN74AVC4T245RTER, the MAX3370EXK+T provides lower propagation delay, integrated pull-ups, and smaller SC70 footprint - making it optimal for space- and timing-critical I²C/SPI bridges where VL ≤ VCC and no direction pin is acceptable.

Availability

MAX3370EXK+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable POS systems, smart card readers, and I²C/SPI interface bridging requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long-term production cycles.

Supply support for MAX3370EXK+T 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX3370/MAX3371 family was engineered specifically for ultra-compact, low-power bidirectional level translation in battery-operated portable electronics - prioritizing minimal footprint, zero-direction-control operation, and guaranteed timing at 1.6V–5.5V domain boundaries.

FAQ

What is the maximum allowable voltage difference between VL and VCC for reliable operation of the MAX3370EXK+T?

The MAX3370EXK+T requires VL ≤ VCC at all times - no reverse voltage is permitted. While VL may equal VCC (e.g., both at 3.3V), VL must never exceed VCC, as this risks internal node overstress and undefined logic thresholds. The absolute maximum rating specifies VL to GND ≤ (VCC + 0.3V), but functional operation mandates VL ≤ VCC per datasheet Note 1.

Does the MAX3370EXK+T support I²C Fast-mode Plus (1Mbps) operation with standard pull-up resistors?

Yes, the MAX3370EXK+T supports I²C Fast-mode Plus at 1Mbps with 50pF load when driven by an active (push-pull) source. Its internal 10kΩ pull-ups eliminate the need for external resistors on SDA/SCL, and its 200ns tPD-VL-LH at 50pF meets I²C timing budgets. For open-drain driving, use 500kbps max with 30pF load.

Can the MAX3370EXK+T be used to translate RS-232 signals?

No, the MAX3370EXK+T is not suitable for RS-232 translation. It operates only between 1.6V–5.5V logic domains and cannot generate or tolerate the ±3V to ±15V voltage levels required by RS-232. The datasheet mentions "RS-232-Compatible Translation" only as a system-level application context - meaning it may interface *with* RS-232 transceivers (e.g., translating between a 1.8V MCU and a MAX3232's logic-side pins), not the RS-232 bus itself.

Is there a shutdown function on the MAX3370EXK+T, and how does it compare to the MAX3371?

No, the MAX3370EXK+T has no shutdown pin - it operates continuously. In contrast, the MAX3371 includes a SHDN pin that reduces supply current to <1µA and places I/O pins in high-impedance state. The MAX3370EXK+T's ordering code "EXK+T" explicitly denotes the 5-pin SC70 variant without SHDN, confirmed in the Ordering Information table.

What decoupling capacitors are recommended for stable operation of the MAX3370EXK+T?

Per the Applications Information section, a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor should be placed as close as possible to each supply pin: one between VL and GND, and another between VCC and GND. These capacitors suppress high-frequency supply ripple and prevent false triggering due to transient coupling - especially critical when operating near the 1.6V VL minimum or at 2Mbps data rates.