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Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3741HETE
- Part No.:
- MAX3741HETE
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Laser Drivers
- Package:
- 16-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX3741HETE.pdf
- Description:
- COMPACT VCSEL DRIVER
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,070
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Product details
Overview
MAX3741HETE from Maxim Integrated is a high-speed VCSEL driver IC for SFP/SFF optical transmitters, delivering up to 3.2Gbps data rate, 2–15mA programmable modulation current, and 1–15mA bias current in a 3mm × 3mm 16-pin thin QFN package. It integrates bias generation, laser modulation, and optional peaking current control to enhance VCSEL edge speed in fiber-optic LAN modules.
For engineers reviewing the MAX3741HETE datasheet, MAX3741HETE pinout, MAX3741HETE application, or MAX3741HETE equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, validated pin functions, and two confirmed alternative drivers for multirate optical transmitter designs.
Technical Context
The MAX3741HETE implements a SiGe bipolar-based laser modulation circuit with differential input buffer, current mirror, and high-speed current switch driving up to 15mA into 50Ω loads. Its bias generator uses an internal bandgap reference and current mirror controlled by RBIASSET, with BIASMON providing 1/9× proportional monitoring current.
It supports both common-cathode and differential VCSEL configurations, features on-chip 100Ω differential input termination, and enables peaking compensation via RPEAKSET to reduce deterministic jitter (13–25psP-P) and improve transition times (65–95ps) at 3.2Gbps.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rate | Up to 3.2Gbps - supports full SFP MSA-compliant multirate operation (1Gbps to 3.2Gbps). |
| Modulation Current | 2–15mAP-P - programmable via RMODSET; enables precise VCSEL drive level tuning across process/voltage/temperature. |
| Bias Current | 1–15mA - set by RBIASSET; maintains VCSEL above threshold for low-jitter eye opening. |
| Peaking Current | 0.2–2mA - adjustable via RPEAKSET; reduces rise/fall time degradation caused by VCSEL package inductance. |
| Supply Voltage | +2.97V to +3.63V - compatible with standard 3.3V SFP power rails; PSR > –2dB up to 100MHz. |
| Operating Temp | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade optical module deployment in telecom and datacom environments. |
| Input Impedance | 100Ω differential - eliminates external termination components and ensures signal integrity with AC-coupled SFP inputs. |
Pinout & Package
MAX3741HETE is housed in a 3mm × 3mm, 0.8mm-thick 16-pin thin QFN package with exposed thermal pad (EP) connected to GND. The package uses hybrid lead-free construction (T1633FH-3), compliant with RoHS/lead-exempt exemption for internal high-lead bumps.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | TX_DISABLE | Active-high disable control; places driver in low-power state (<1mA ICC-SHDW) and shuts off bias/modulation outputs. |
| 2, 3 | IN+, IN- | Differential data inputs; self-biased, 100Ω on-chip termination enables direct connection to SFP MSA-compliant AC-coupled sources. |
| 4 | N.C. | No internal connection; must be left unconnected or tied to GND per layout guidelines. |
| 5, 9, 15 | VCC | +3.3V supply pins; three dedicated VCC connections minimize supply impedance and improve high-frequency stability. |
| 6 | MODSET | Modulation current programming node; resistor to GND (RMODSET) sets IMOD from 2–15mAP-P. |
| 7 | PEAKSET | Peaking current programming node; resistor to GND (RPEAKSET) adds transient boost (0.2–2mA) to sharpen edges. |
| 8, 16 | GND | Ground terminals; low-inductance return paths critical for minimizing EMI and maintaining output symmetry. |
| 10, 11 | OUT-, OUT+ | Differential modulation-current outputs; 63–80Ω single-ended output resistance matches 50Ω VCSEL loads. |
| 12 | BIASMON | Bias monitor output; sourced current = IBIAS / 9 - enables closed-loop bias regulation using external op-amp feedback. |
| 13 | BIAS | VCSEL bias current output; delivers up to 15mA with ±8% accuracy over temperature and supply variation. |
| 14 | BIASSET | Bias current programming node; resistor to GND (RBIASSET) sets IBIAS from 1–15mA with monotonic tracking. |
| EP | Exposed Pad | Thermal and electrical ground; must be soldered to PCB ground plane for <15°C/W junction-to-board thermal resistance. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Programmable peaking current | 0.2–2mA adjustment via RPEAKSET - directly compensates for VCSEL package inductance-induced edge rounding. |
| Dual configuration support | Validated operation in both common-cathode and differential VCSEL topologies - simplifies reuse across multiple module designs. |
| Integrated bias monitor | BIASMON provides 1/9× scaled current output - enables real-time bias health monitoring without additional sensing circuitry. |
| SFP MSA-compatible inputs | On-chip 100Ω differential termination and self-biasing - eliminates external resistors and improves layout flexibility in tight SFP footprints. |
| Hybrid lead-free packaging | T1633FH-3 package with RoHS-compliant external finish and exempted internal high-lead bumps - meets environmental compliance without sacrificing reliability. |
Applications
| Gigabit Ethernet Optical Transmitter | Fibre Channel Optical Transmitter |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 1.25Gbps or 2.125Gbps short-reach multimode fiber link in enterprise switches or storage area networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: VCSEL driver providing precise bias and modulation current control to maintain ER > 8.8dB and deterministic jitter < 25psP-P at 2.125Gbps. Use Value: Enables stable eye opening under temperature variation (–40°C to +85°C) using factory-trimmed bias/modulation scaling and on-chip peaking. |
Use Scenario: 2.125Gbps Fibre Channel transceiver in SAN equipment requiring low-power, high-reliability optical interface. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Laser driver managing VCSEL turn-on delay (<3µs) and extinction ratio via TX_DISABLE-controlled shutdown with <10µA IBIAS_OFF leakage. Use Value: Reduces system-level power consumption during link idle states while preserving fast re-enable timing (ton = 111µs). |
| Multirate SFP Module (1–3.2Gbps) | SFF Fiber-Optic LAN Transmitter |
|
Use Scenario: Hot-pluggable SFP module supporting auto-negotiated speeds from 1Gbps to 3.2Gbps in routers and media converters. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-speed driver with wide IMOD/IBIAS range and 65–95ps transition time - ensures compliance with SFP MSA eye mask at all supported rates. Use Value: Single-part solution eliminates need for multiple drivers across speed grades, reducing BOM count and qualification effort. |
Use Scenario: Cost-sensitive small-form-factor pluggable optical transmitter for industrial Ethernet or embedded diagnostics. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Compact VCSEL driver in 3mm × 3mm QFN - fits within TO-46 header-based SFF layouts with minimal board area. Use Value: Supports low-cost VCSEL packages (e.g., TO-46) via programmable bias/modulation and integrated peaking, avoiding external compensation networks. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar VCSEL driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3738ETE | Lower max data rate (2.7Gbps); no peaking current option; identical 3mm × 3mm QFN package and pinout. | Targeted at cost-optimized 1.25G/2.5G SFP only; lacks edge-speed enhancement needed for 3.2Gbps eye compliance. | Select when 3.2Gbps operation is not required and peaking compensation is unnecessary for chosen VCSEL. |
| LMH6522MA/NOPB | General-purpose high-speed current-output DAC driver; no integrated bias generator or TX_DISABLE logic; requires external bias control. | Used in custom optical subsystems where full analog control and higher bandwidth (>4Gbps) are prioritized over SFP MSA compliance. | Choose only for non-standard optical modules requiring flexible analog bias/modulation tuning and absence of digital disable functionality. |
Compared with MAX3738ETE and LMH6522MA/NOPB, the MAX3741HETE uniquely combines SFP MSA-compliant 3.2Gbps operation, integrated bias generation, programmable peaking, and hybrid lead-free packaging-making it the only drop-in solution for production multirate SFP modules requiring RoHS/lead-exempt compliance and guaranteed eye margin.
Availability
MAX3741HETE is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for Gigabit Ethernet optical transmitters, Fibre Channel optical transmitters, and multirate SFP modules requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS/lead-exempt compliance.
Supply support for MAX3741HETE 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs for communications, computing, and industrial applications.
The MAX3741 product line was designed specifically for compact, multirate fiber-optic transmitter modules - delivering integrated bias, modulation, and peaking functions in minimal footprint for SFP/SFF form factors.
FAQ
What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX3741HETE?
The MAX3741HETE supports up to 3.2Gbps operation, fully compliant with SFP MSA requirements for multirate optical transmitters. This rating is verified across –40°C to +85°C and with 5mAP-P ≤ IMOD ≤ 15mAP-P, delivering deterministic jitter of 13–25psP-P and transition times of 65–95ps under typical conditions. The MAX3741HETE achieves this performance using its SiGe bipolar process and integrated peaking control.
Does the MAX3741HETE require external termination resistors on its data inputs?
No, the MAX3741HETE does not require external termination resistors on IN+ and IN–. It features on-chip 100Ω differential input impedance and self-biasing circuitry, enabling direct connection to AC-coupled SFP MSA-compliant sources. This eliminates external components, saves board space, and ensures consistent signal integrity across voltage and temperature - a key design advantage confirmed in the MAX3741HETE's typical operating characteristics.
How is the bias current programmed on the MAX3741HETE?
The bias current on the MAX3741HETE is programmed using a resistor (RBIASSET) connected between pin 14 (BIASSET) and ground. The relationship is monotonic and documented in the Bias Current vs. RBIASSET graph: for example, 1.87kΩ yields ~15mA. Accuracy is ±8% over temperature and supply, and BIASMON provides a proportional 1/9× monitor current for closed-loop verification - all confirmed in the MAX3741HETE's electrical characteristics table.
What is the function of the PEAKSET pin on the MAX3741HETE?
The PEAKSET pin (pin 7) on the MAX3741HETE programs optional peaking current (0.2–2mA) to improve VCSEL edge speed by compensating for package inductance. A resistor (RPEAKSET) to ground sets the amplitude; leaving PEAKSET open disables peaking. This feature directly reduces deterministic jitter and sharpens transitions - validated in MAX3741HETE's eye diagrams and transition time vs. IMOD plots.
Is the MAX3741HETE pin-compatible with the MAX3741ETE?
Yes, the MAX3741HETE is pin-compatible with the MAX3741ETE. Both use the same T1633F-3/T1633FH-3 3mm × 3mm 16-pin thin QFN package, identical pinout, and share identical electrical specifications and functional behavior. The sole difference is the hybrid lead-free construction of the MAX3741HETE, which retains internal high-lead bumps under a RoHS-compliant external finish - confirmed in Maxim's ordering information and package drawings.
MAX3741HETE Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Modulator Driver
- Data Rate:
- 3.2Gbps
- Number of Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply:
- 5V
- Current - Supply:
- 51 mA
- Current - Modulation:
- 15mA
- Current - Bias:
- 15 mA
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TQFN-EP (3x3)
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
MAX3741HETE FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX3741HETE through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX3741HETE on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for MAX3741HETE reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX3741HETE are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX3741HETE is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX3741HETE?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX3741HETE transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX3741HETE?
MAX3741HETE orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX3741HETE order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for MAX3741HETE?
For technical support, including MAX3741HETE datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX3741HETE requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX3741HETE is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX3741HETE products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that MAX3741HETE meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX3741HETE?
All MAX3741HETE units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX3741HETE, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The MAX3741HETE part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX3741HETE:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX3741HETE Tags
-
EPC21701
EPC
-
EPC21601
EPC
-
MAX3799ETJ+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
AD9665ACPZ-REEL7
Analog Devices Inc.
-
MAX3740AETG+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
MAX3795ETG+
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
EPC21603
EPC
-
ONET8501VRGPT
Texas Instruments
-
MAX3738ETG+T
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
-
SY88022ALMG-TR
Microchip Technology
-
ISL78365ARZ-T7A
Renesas
-
EPC21603ENGRT
EPC
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