Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3880ECB+D

Overview

The MAX3880ECB+D from Maxim Integrated is a 2.488Gbps SDH/SONET deserializer with integrated clock recovery, converting serial NRZ data to 16-bit LVDS parallel outputs at 155.52Mbps. It operates from a single +3.3V supply, delivers <0.46UI jitter tolerance at >10MHz, tolerates >2000 consecutive identical digits, and supports system loopback diagnostics via dedicated SLBI± inputs - deployed in add/drop multiplexers and digital cross-connects.

For engineers reviewing the MAX3880ECB+D datasheet, MAX3880ECB+D pinout, MAX3880ECB+D application, or MAX3880ECB+D equivalent, key selection criteria include its fully integrated PLL architecture, LVDS I/O compliance (IEEE 1596.3), TTL-compatible LOL monitor, 64-pin TQFP-EP package with exposed thermal pad, and guaranteed operation across –40°C to +85°C.

Technical Context

The MAX3880ECB+D implements a fully differential PLL with phase/frequency detector (PFD), digital frequency detector (FD), LC VCO running at 2.488GHz, and external loop filter (1.0µF capacitor between FIL+ and FIL–). Its clock recovery locks to 2.488Gbps serial input without external reference, enabling retiming of data on the recovered clock edge.

It features dual high-speed differential inputs (SDI± and SLBI±), LVDS synchronization inputs (SYNC±) for realignment within two PCLK cycles, and 16-bit LVDS parallel outputs (PD0± to PD15±) updated on the negative transition of PCLK. The LOL output is TTL-active-low with internal 10kΩ pull-up and valid only when data is present.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX3880ECB+D is housed in a 64-pin TQFP-EP (exposed pad) package measuring 10mm × 10mm × 1.0mm, requiring soldering of the EP pad to PCB ground for thermal performance per Maxim's package outline 21-0084.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar deserializer-with-clock-recovery applications.

Compared with MAX3880ECB+D, MAX3890ECB+D serves the opposite signal direction and offers no deserialization capability, while ICS873001AGI-01LFT shifts clock recovery responsibility to external components - increasing BOM cost, layout complexity, and total jitter budget versus the fully integrated solution.

Availability

MAX3880ECB+D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for SDH/SONET transmission systems, add/drop multiplexers, and digital cross-connects requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX3880ECB+D 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 solutions for communications, computing, and industrial markets.

The MAX3880ECB+D belongs to Maxim's high-speed communications IC portfolio, designed specifically for OC-48/STM-16 SDH/SONET physical-layer receivers requiring integrated clock recovery, low-power operation, and robust jitter performance.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX3880ECB+D in SDH/SONET systems?

The MAX3880ECB+D functions as a 2.488Gbps deserializer with integrated clock recovery, converting serial NRZ data to 16-bit LVDS parallel outputs at 155.52Mbps. It recovers timing directly from the incoming OC-48/STM-16 data stream using an on-chip PLL and delivers jitter-cleaned parallel data and clock signals to downstream framer or TSI logic. This eliminates the need for external clock synthesis in the receive path of MAX3880ECB+D-based line cards.

Does the MAX3880ECB+D require an external clock source?

No, the MAX3880ECB+D does not require an external clock source. Its fully integrated PLL recovers a synchronous 2.488GHz clock directly from the serial NRZ data input (SDI± or SLBI±), then divides it to generate the 155.52MHz parallel clock (PCLK±). External components are limited to the 1.0µF loop filter capacitor between FIL+ and FIL– - no crystal, VCXO, or reference clock is needed for MAX3880ECB+D operation.

How does the system loopback feature work on the MAX3880ECB+D?

The MAX3880ECB+D supports system-level loopback testing via dedicated SLBI± inputs and the TTL SIS pin. When SIS is driven high, the internal multiplexer routes the SLBI± signal instead of SDI± to the deserializer core. This allows a serializer (e.g., MAX3890ECB+D) output to be fed directly into the MAX3880ECB+D for end-to-end BER validation without external test equipment - enabling in-circuit diagnostics during manufacturing or field maintenance.

What is the role of the PHADJ+ and PHADJ– pins on the MAX3880ECB+D?

The PHADJ+ and PHADJ– pins on the MAX3880ECB+D provide differential control of internal PLL phase alignment, allowing fine adjustment of the sampling point within the data eye to optimize bit-error rate. These pins accept ±1.5V differential voltage; when unused, they must be tied to VCC. Unlike fixed-phase devices, this feature enables MAX3880ECB+D to compensate for channel-induced skew or PVT variations in high-margin SDH/SONET links.

Is the LOL output on the MAX3880ECB+D active during power-up or loss of input signal?

The LOL (loss-of-lock) output on the MAX3880ECB+D is a TTL-active-low indicator valid only when a data stream is present on SDI± or SLBI±. It asserts low within ~800ns of PLL unlock but does not detect loss of power or absence of input signal - if no data is applied, LOL remains indeterminate. Therefore, MAX3880ECB+D LOL cannot serve as a general power-good or signal-present monitor; external supervision circuitry is required for those functions.