Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3864ESA

Overview

MAX3864ESA from Maxim Integrated is a 2.5Gbps transimpedance preamplifier IC for fiber-optic SDH/SONET receivers, featuring 490nA (typ) input-referred RMS noise, 2.0GHz small-signal bandwidth, and 2mA AC input overload capability. It operates from a single +3.0V to +5.5V supply, delivers CML differential outputs into 100Ω loads, and integrates a 750Ω filter resistor and low-frequency compensation for PIN or APD photodiode interfacing in TO-46 header assemblies.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3864ESA datasheet, MAX3864ESA pinout, MAX3864ESA application, or MAX3864ESA equivalent, this device is selected for high-speed optical receiver front-ends requiring wide dynamic range (-24dBm to 0dBm), deterministic jitter control (<77ps), and stable transimpedance gain (2750Ω typ) across -40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX3864ESA implements a bipolar SiGe transimpedance amplifier stage with shunt-feedback RF, followed by a voltage amplifier converting single-ended to differential CML output, and an integrated DC cancellation circuit that reduces pulse-width distortion on 50% duty-cycle data. Its low-frequency cutoff is 30kHz, enabling baseband signal recovery while suppressing photodiode bias drift.

It features internal 50Ω source termination per output leg, delivering 220–575mV_P-P differential swing into 100Ω load, with PSRR of 50dB below 2MHz. The FILTER pin provides photodiode bias via integrated 750Ω resistor (600–930Ω range), and disabling it via grounding enables DC path testing.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX3864ESA is housed in an 8-pin SO (SOIC-N) package per MS012 outline, with 150-mil body width, 1.27mm lead pitch, and GND pins on both sides for optimal high-frequency grounding.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX3864ESA, MAX3748AETA+ offers lower noise but lacks 2.5Gbps bandwidth and integrated photodiode biasing, while LMH6521IRGZT provides wider gain control at the cost of added design complexity and no native optical receiver features.

Availability

MAX3864ESA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for SDH/SONET transmission systems, PIN photodiode preamplifier receivers, and 2.5Gbps ATM regenerators requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX3864ESA 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 high-speed ICs for communications, computing, and industrial applications.

The MAX3864ESA belongs to Maxim's optical receiver front-end product line, engineered specifically for 2.5Gbps fiber-optic infrastructure where wide dynamic range, low jitter, and photodiode integration are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range specified for the MAX3864ESA?

The MAX3864ESA is rated for operation from -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature, as confirmed in the Ordering Information table. This range covers industrial and telecom equipment environments. The device's electrical characteristics-including transimpedance gain, bandwidth, and input noise-are guaranteed across this full range, with typical values measured at +25°C. Junction temperature may reach +150°C under worst-case power dissipation, but the SO-8 package ensures safe operation within the specified ambient limits.

Does the MAX3864ESA require external components for basic photodiode interfacing?

The MAX3864ESA integrates a 750Ω filter resistor and low-frequency compensation capacitor, eliminating the need for external bias resistors or DC cancellation capacitors in standard PIN photodiode configurations. However, external 0.1µF AC-coupling capacitors on OUT+ and OUT-, a 0.01µF VCC bypass, and a photodiode filter capacitor (CFILTER) are required per the Typical Application Circuit. No external transimpedance feedback resistor is needed-the gain is fixed internally.

What is the function of the FILTER pin on the MAX3864ESA?

The FILTER pin on the MAX3864ESA provides a 750Ω (600–930Ω) internal resistor path to VCC, used to bias the photodiode cathode. When left open or connected to VCC, it enables normal DC cancellation operation. Grounding the FILTER pin disables the internal DC cancellation amplifier, establishing a direct DC path from IN to OUT+ and OUT--a mode used for bench testing and characterization. This pin does not accept external filtering components; its sole role is photodiode bias control and test-mode enablement.

Can the MAX3864ESA drive a 50Ω single-ended load directly?

No, the MAX3864ESA cannot drive a DC-coupled, 50Ω grounded load. Its CML outputs are designed for differential 100Ω termination between OUT+ and OUT-. If single-ended output is required, the unused output (e.g., OUT-) must be terminated with 50Ω to VCC-not to ground-while the active output (OUT+) drives the load. Driving a 50Ω load directly to ground violates the output stage's common-mode voltage specification and risks distortion or damage.

How does the MAX3864ESA achieve low deterministic jitter at 2.5Gbps?

The MAX3864ESA achieves low deterministic jitter (<77ps) through three integrated mechanisms: (1) a high-linearity transimpedance stage with 40µA_P-P linear range, minimizing pulse-width distortion; (2) an on-chip DC cancellation circuit that centers the signal in the amplifier's linear region for 50%-duty-cycle data; and (3) matched CML output drivers with 50Ω source impedance, ensuring clean edge fidelity into 100Ω differential loads. These features are validated using a 20-bit PRBS pattern (K28.5) per the Electrical Characteristics table.