Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3374EEKA+T

Overview

The MAX3374EEKA+T from Maxim Integrated is a unidirectional ±15kV ESD-protected logic-level translator enabling data transfer between 1.2V–5.5V VL and 1.65V–5.5V VCC domains. It supports guaranteed 8Mbps operation across full voltage range, features 1μA three-state supply current, and operates in SOT23-8 package. It is used in SPI/I²C interfaces between low-voltage microcontrollers and higher-voltage peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3374EEKA+T datasheet, MAX3374EEKA+T pinout, MAX3374EEKA+T application, or MAX3374EEKA+T equivalent, key selection criteria include unidirectional translation direction (VL → VCC), 8Mbps data rate at 1.2V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ 5.5V, ±15kV HBM ESD rating on VCC-side I/Os, thermal short-circuit protection, and SOT23-8 footprint compatibility with space-constrained portable designs.

Technical Context

The MAX3374EEKA+T implements fixed-direction level shifting using MOSFET-based pass-gate architecture optimized for VL-to-VCC translation only. Its internal speed-up circuitry and rise-time accelerators enable 8Mbps performance across the full operating voltage range and up to 16Mbps under specific conditions (+1.8V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +2.5V or +2.5V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +3.3V).

It integrates a dedicated THREE-STATE input referenced to VL that forces all I/O lines into high-impedance mode with <1μA total supply current. Thermal shutdown activates at +152°C junction temperature and recovers at +142°C, ensuring robust fault handling without external supervision.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT23-8 package (3.0mm × 1.7mm × 1.3mm height) with exposed pad (EP) connected to GND for thermal and EMI performance. Pin 1 marked by dot; pin order matches JEDEC MO-178AA standard.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TXB0104RGYR and SN74AVC4T245PW, the MAX3374EEKA+T delivers certified ±15kV ESD robustness without external components, integrated thermal fault protection, and guaranteed 8Mbps performance across its full 1.2V–5.5V operating range - critical for field-deployed portable electronics.

Availability

The MAX3374EEKA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for SPI/I²C level translation, smart card readers, and cell-phone cradles requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for MAX3374EEKA+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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, automotive, and communications markets.

The MAX3372E–MAX3379E family targets multivoltage system interoperability, specifically addressing the need for robust, low-power, ESD-hardened level translation in portable and battery-operated equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum guaranteed data rate for the MAX3374EEKA+T across its full operating voltage range?

The MAX3374EEKA+T guarantees 8Mbps operation for all combinations where +1.2V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +5.5V. Higher rates - up to 16Mbps - are only specified under narrower conditions: +1.8V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +2.5V or +2.5V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +3.3V. The MAX3374EEKA+T does not support 230kbps mode (reserved for MAX3372E/MAX3377E variants).

Can the MAX3374EEKA+T translate signals from VCC to VL (i.e., high-to-low direction)?

No. The MAX3374EEKA+T is strictly unidirectional: it translates only from VL-side inputs to VCC-side outputs (VL → VCC). It cannot accept signals on I/O VCC_ pins and drive corresponding outputs on I/O VL_ pins. For bidirectional translation, consider the MAX3373E or MAX3377E instead - the MAX3374EEKA+T is designed exclusively for fixed-direction use cases like SPI master-to-peripheral links.

How does the THREE-STATE pin function on the MAX3374EEKA+T, and what is its logic reference?

The THREE-STATE pin on the MAX3374EEKA+T is referenced to VL, not VCC. Pulling it low (≤0.15V) places both I/O VL_ and I/O VCC_ pins in high-impedance state and reduces total supply current to <1μA. For normal operation, connect THREE-STATE to VL (logic high). This architecture ensures predictable control even when VCC and VL differ significantly - a key feature of the MAX3374EEKA+T design.

Does the MAX3374EEKA+T require external pull-up resistors on its I/O lines?

No. The MAX3374EEKA+T does not integrate internal pull-up resistors on any I/O line. Its outputs are active-push-pull (not open-drain), so external pull-ups are unnecessary for standard CMOS logic interfacing. However, if interfacing with open-drain buses (e.g., I²C), external pull-ups to VCC or VL must be added per bus specification - the MAX3374EEKA+T itself provides no internal termination.

What thermal protection mechanism does the MAX3374EEKA+T implement, and how does it recover?

The MAX3374EEKA+T incorporates thermal short-circuit protection that triggers at +152°C junction temperature, forcing automatic entry into three-state mode to halt current flow. Recovery occurs autonomously when junction temperature cools to +142°C, restoring normal operation without reset or external intervention. This fail-safe behavior is integral to the MAX3374EEKA+T's reliability in compact, thermally constrained portable enclosures.