Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3391EETD+

Overview

MAX3391EETD+ from Maxim Integrated is a quad unidirectional logic-level translator enabling bidirectional voltage translation between 1.2V–5.5V (VL) and 1.65V–5.5V (VCC) domains, supporting up to 16Mbps data rate at +2.5V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +3.3V, with ±15kV HBM ESD protection on VCC-side I/Os, and 1μA three-state supply current - used in SPI/I²C interfaces between low-voltage microcontrollers and higher-voltage peripherals.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3391EETD+ datasheet, MAX3391EETD+ pinout, MAX3391EETD+ application, or MAX3391EETD+ equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed 8Mbps operation across full voltage range, slew-rate limiting for EMI reduction, thermal short-circuit protection, three-state enable control referenced to VL, and compatibility with UCSP-12 (3×4 mm), TDFN-14, and TSSOP-14 packages.

Technical Context

The MAX3391EETD+ implements unidirectional level translation (VL → VCC only) using MOSFET-based pass-gate architecture with integrated speed-up circuitry - a one-shot generator that activates pull-up transistors PU1/PU2 to accelerate rising edges on both I/O VL_ and I/O VCC_ lines. This enables 15ns propagation delay and 15ns rise/fall times under +2.5V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +3.3V conditions.

It features dual-supply operation with independent VL and VCC rails, three-state output mode controlled by a VL-referenced THREE-STATE input, and internal 10kΩ pull-ups on I/O lines disabled during three-state mode. Thermal shutdown triggers at +152°C junction temperature and recovers at +142°C.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX3391EETD+ is packaged in a 14-pin TDFN-EP (3mm × 3mm) with exposed pad, pin-compatible with TSSOP-14 and 3×4 UCSP variants. The package supports reflow soldering (260°C) and provides low thermal resistance for sustained 16Mbps operation.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TXB0104RGYR and SN74AVCH4T245PW, the MAX3391EETD+ delivers superior ESD robustness, wider voltage scalability (up to 5.5V), integrated thermal protection, and deterministic unidirectional timing - making it optimal for industrial, medical, and portable communication designs demanding reliability over cost.

Availability

MAX3391EETD+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial sensor interfaces, smart card readers, portable POS systems, and GPS module integration requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.

Supply support for MAX3391EETD+ 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, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX3372E–MAX3379E/MAX3390E–MAX3393E family was engineered specifically for multivoltage system interoperability - delivering robust, low-power, high-speed level translation with integrated protection for portable, battery-operated, and harsh-environment applications.

FAQ

What voltage ranges does the MAX3391EETD+ support on its VL and VCC supplies?

The MAX3391EETD+ accepts VL from +1.2V to +5.5V and VCC from +1.65V to +5.5V, with the constraint VL ≤ VCC + 0.3V. This allows direct interfacing between ultra-low-voltage logic (e.g., 1.2V FPGA I/O banks) and legacy 5V peripherals. Operation outside these ranges risks damage or undefined behavior - always verify supply sequencing per the datasheet's absolute maximum ratings before powering the MAX3391EETD+.

Does the MAX3391EETD+ support bidirectional level translation?

No, the MAX3391EETD+ is a unidirectional level translator (VL → VCC only). It lacks the transmission-gate architecture found in MAX3377E/MAX3378E and instead uses optimized MOSFET pass gates with speed-up circuitry for high-speed single-direction signaling. For bidirectional use cases like I²C, select MAX3377EETD+ or MAX3378EETD+ - the MAX3391EETD+ is intended for SPI, UART, or GPIO applications where data flow direction is fixed.

How does the three-state mode function on the MAX3391EETD+?

The MAX3391EETD+ enters three-state mode when the THREE-STATE pin is driven low (≤0.15V or VL − 0.2V), placing all eight I/Os (I/O VL1–VL4 and I/O VCC1–VCC4) into high-impedance state and reducing total supply current to <1μA. The pin is VL-referenced, so logic-high is defined as VL − 0.2V minimum. During three-state, internal 10kΩ pull-ups are disconnected - external biasing may be needed for open-drain buses.

What is the maximum guaranteed data rate for the MAX3391EETD+ across its full operating voltage range?

The MAX3391EETD+ guarantees 8Mbps operation across its entire specified voltage range (+1.2V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +5.5V). Higher rates - up to 16Mbps - are achievable only within narrower domains: +1.8V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +2.5V and +2.5V ≤ VL ≤ VCC ≤ +3.3V. These higher speeds require CLOAD ≤ 15pF and driver impedance ≤ 50Ω; actual performance depends on PCB layout, termination, and capacitive loading.

Is the MAX3391EETD+ pin-compatible with other devices in the MAX3372E–MAX3393E family?

Yes, the MAX3391EETD+ shares identical pinout and footprint with MAX3377EETD+, MAX3378EETD+, and MAX3392EETD+ in the 14-pin TDFN-EP, TSSOP-14, and 3×4 UCSP packages. However, functional differences exist: MAX3391EETD+ is unidirectional (VL→VCC), while MAX3377E/MAX3378E are bidirectional, and MAX3392E is also unidirectional but with different timing characteristics. Always validate signal direction and timing margins before substitution.