Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3664ESA

Overview

MAX3664ESA from Maxim Integrated is a 622Mbps transimpedance preamplifier IC designed for SDH/SONET optical receivers, operating from a single +3.3V supply with 55nA_RMS input-referred noise, 6kΩ transimpedance gain, and 590MHz small-signal bandwidth. It delivers differential output swing into 100Ω loads while consuming only 85mW, enabling high-sensitivity (-33.2dBm at 1300nm) receiver front-ends.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3664ESA datasheet, MAX3664ESA pinout, MAX3664ESA application, or MAX3664ESA equivalent, key selection criteria include input noise performance, pulse-width distortion (≤200ps), DC cancellation loop configuration via COMP pin, and compatibility with PIN photodiodes in 8-pin SO packaging for telecom-grade 622Mbps signal conditioning.

Technical Context

The MAX3664ESA integrates a shunt-feedback transimpedance amplifier, paraphase stage for single-ended-to-differential conversion (×2 voltage gain), and a user-configurable DC cancellation loop. Its transimpedance stage uses internal 6kΩ feedback with diode clamping to limit output swing at ≥100µA_p-p input.

The DC cancellation loop-enabled by external capacitor (≥400pF) from COMP to GND-centers the differential output within the dynamic range to suppress pulse-width distortion on 50% duty-cycle data; disabling it (COMP = GND) removes low-frequency feedback but increases baseline distortion under large DC input components.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX3664ESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (Small Outline) package, surface-mount compatible with standard PCB assembly processes. Pin layout follows JEDEC MS-012AC outline with 1.27mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transimpedance preamplifier applications.

Compared with MAX3664ESA, MAX3665ESA trades bandwidth and noise for higher gain at lower data rates, while LMH6521MA offers flexibility over telecom-optimized performance - neither provides the integrated DC cancellation, 622Mbps-optimized noise floor, or SONET-specific pulse-width distortion control of MAX3664ESA.

Availability

MAX3664ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for SDH/SONET receiver front-ends, PIN diode-based optical modules, and regenerator circuits requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C).

Supply support for MAX3664ESA 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 RF ICs for communications, computing, and industrial applications.

The MAX3664ESA belongs to Maxim's optical receiver IC product line, engineered specifically for low-noise, low-power transimpedance amplification in 622Mbps SDH/SONET infrastructure equipment.

FAQ

What is the maximum input current the MAX3664ESA can handle without excessive pulse-width distortion?

The MAX3664ESA maintains ≤200ps pulse-width distortion up to 300µA_p-p peak input current, as specified in AC Electrical Characteristics. Beyond this level, distortion increases nonlinearly; for SDH/SONET compliance, operation is typically limited to ≤300µA_p-p to ensure eye opening meets ITU-T G.957 mask requirements. The MAX3664ESA datasheet confirms this value under TA = -40°C to +85°C conditions with CCOMP = 400pF.

How does the COMP pin affect noise performance in the MAX3664ESA?

Connecting the COMP pin to GND through ≥400pF enables the DC cancellation loop, which reduces pulse-width distortion but adds low-frequency noise from the cancellation current. With no capacitor (COMP = GND), the loop is disabled, lowering low-frequency noise but increasing distortion on large DC-biased inputs. The MAX3664ESA's input-referred noise rises from 55nA_RMS to ~62nA_RMS at +85°C when the loop is active, per Typical Operating Characteristics.

Can the MAX3664ESA drive a 50Ω differential load, or is 100Ω mandatory?

The MAX3664ESA is characterized for 100Ω differential load (50Ω per side), delivering full 900mV_p-p swing. Driving 50Ω differentially (25Ω per side) is possible but reduces output swing and increases power dissipation; AC Electrical Characteristics specify parameters only for 100Ω loading. For 50Ω systems, external termination or buffer stages are recommended to preserve MAX3664ESA performance and avoid violating output impedance specs (60Ω per side).

What is the role of INREF1 and INREF2 pins in the MAX3664ESA, and how should they be routed?

INREF1 and INREF2 provide AC ground reference points for the photodiode cathode, directly tied to the emitter of the input transistor for optimal common-mode rejection. They must be connected to the photodiode's AC ground return - typically the ground side of the filter capacitor - with total loop length ≤2cm. Poor routing introduces imbalance, degrading CMRR and increasing noise; the MAX3664ESA functional diagram shows these pins as essential for maintaining transimpedance accuracy and low distortion.

Is the MAX3664ESA pin-compatible with other packages in the MAX3664 family, such as the µMAX version?

Yes - the MAX3664ESA (8-pin SO), MAX3664EUA (8-pin µMAX), and MAX3664E/D (die) share identical pinout and electrical specifications across -40°C to +85°C. The SO and µMAX packages differ only in footprint and thermal characteristics (SO: 383mW max dissipation; µMAX: 268mW), but both use the same 1–8 pin numbering: VCC, IN, INREF1, INREF2, GND, OUT+, OUT-, COMP. This allows direct PCB footprint substitution where thermal limits permit.