Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX3967AE/D
- Part No.:
- MAX3967AE/D
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Laser Drivers
- Package:
- -
- Datasheet:
-
MAX3967AE/D.pdf
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- IC LASER
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Product details
Overview
MAX3967AE/D from Maxim Integrated is a 270Mbps SFP-compliant LED driver IC designed for fiber-optic multimode transmitters. It delivers programmable modulation current up to 84.5mA, adjustable prebias voltage (0.400V–0.925V), and temperature coefficient tuning from 2500ppm/°C to 12,000ppm/°C. Used in Fast Ethernet/FDDI and 155Mbps LAN ATM transceivers, it operates from a single +2.97V to +5.5V supply with PECL-compatible differential inputs.
For engineers reviewing the MAX3967AE/D datasheet, MAX3967AE/D pinout, MAX3967AE/D application, or MAX3967AE/D equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, exact pin functions, real-world SFP transmitter design constraints, modulation-current tempco programming methods, and die-level thermal and electrical interface requirements.
Technical Context
The MAX3967AE/D implements a bipolar-based, high-speed current-switching architecture with dual output stages: main (OUT+) and complementary (OUT−) drivers operating 180° out of phase to maintain constant supply current and suppress EMI. Its modulation-current generator uses a resistor-programmed reference (RMODSET) and dual-reference voltage sources-one stable, one with ~12,000ppm/°C tempco-to enable precise temperature compensation across -40°C to +85°C.
Prebias voltage is set via three digital-select pins (PB1–PB3) tied to VEE or left open, enabling eight discrete levels (0.400V–0.925V); peaking current is derived from the internal 78Ω prebias resistor. The PECL input buffer accepts differential data with -1.810V to -0.880V DC-coupled thresholds and features internal pull-ups/pull-downs when unconnected.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Data Rate | 270Mbps - supports SFP-compliant optical links including 155Mbps ATM and Fast Ethernet. |
| Modulation Current | 66.0–84.5mA - programmed via RMODSET; enables direct drive of high-efficiency multimode LEDs. |
| Tempco Range | 2500–12,000ppm/°C - selectable via TC/TCNOM/TCMIN connections to compensate LED output power drift. |
| Prebias Voltage | 0.400–0.925V - digitally set by PB1/PB2/PB3; improves LED switching speed via controlled peaking current. |
| Supply Voltage | +2.97V to +5.5V - single-rail operation compatible with standard SFP module power rails. |
| Input Compatibility | PECL differential - accepts -1.810V to -0.880V logic thresholds; no external level-shifting required. |
| Output Edge Speed | 300–1230ps (20%–80%) - ensures clean optical eye diagrams at 266Mbps with <80ps pulse-width correction. |
Pinout & Package
Dice form (no package); requires wire-bond assembly with gold metallization. Exposed die backside connected to VEE. Pad size: 4 mils × 4 mils (100µm); thickness: 15 mils (375µm). Thermal and electrical performance depend on grounding the substrate to VEE.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| TCMIN, TCNOM, TC | Tempco programming nodes | Set modulation-current temperature coefficient: TCMIN→TC = 2500ppm/°C; TC→TCNOM = 3600ppm/°C; open = 12,000ppm/°C. |
| PB1, PB2, PB3 | Prebias voltage select inputs | Digital control lines-each tied to VEE or left open-to select one of eight prebias levels (0.400V–0.925V). |
| MODSET | Modulation current reference | Resistor to VEE sets full-scale modulation current (e.g., 1kΩ → ~75mA at TA=+25°C, nominal tempco). |
| MON | Modulation current monitor | Sources 1/96×IMOD current; used for closed-loop bias control or diagnostics when routed through external resistor to VEE. |
| TX_DISABLE | Transmit disable control | Open = enabled; pulled high (>2.0V) = disabled; internal pull-down ensures fail-safe OFF state during hot-plug. |
| IN+, IN- | Differential PECL data input | Accepts standard PECL logic; unconnected defaults to low-output state; 50kΩ input impedance. |
| OUT+, OUT- | Complementary current outputs | OUT+ drives LED anode; OUT- sinks complementary current to stabilize supply current and reduce EMI. |
| VEEOUT, VCCOUT, VCC, VEE | Power distribution terminals | VEEOUT grounds output drivers; VCCOUT supplies output stage; VCC powers internal amplifiers; VEE is substrate ground. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| TX_DISABLE pin | Enables SFP MSA compliance with hardware-controlled transmitter shutdown and hot-plug safety. |
| Complementary outputs | Reduces supply current ripple and EMI by maintaining near-constant total current draw from VCCOUT. |
| Programmable prebias voltage | Eight discrete levels (0.400V–0.925V) optimize trade-off between LED switching speed and extinction ratio. |
| Adjustable modulation-current tempco | 2500–12,000ppm/°C range compensates for LED optical power drift over industrial temperature range. |
| Dual-rail power separation | VCC (amplifiers) and VCCOUT/VEEOUT (output drivers) isolation minimizes noise coupling into sensitive analog blocks. |
Applications
| Fast Ethernet/FDDI Transmitter | 155Mbps LAN ATM Transceiver |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: 100BASE-FX fiber link using multimode LED and 1310nm wavelength. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: LED driver providing 270Mbps NRZ modulation current with prebias peaking to meet IEEE 802.3u jitter and rise/fall time specs. Use Value: Achieves <150psP-P data-dependent jitter at 155Mbps and maintains >20dB extinction ratio across -40°C to +85°C via tempco tuning. |
Use Scenario: SONET OC-3/STM-1 optical interface in enterprise LAN switches. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: SFP-compliant LED driver delivering precise 155Mbps optical pulses with integrated TX_DISABLE for MSA-defined management. Use Value: Complementary outputs suppress supply noise, enabling clean eye diagrams even with shared board-level 3.3V rails. |
| SFP Multimode Transceiver Module | ESCON Receiver Interface |
|
Use Scenario: Pluggable SFP module with digital diagnostics (DDM) and thermal monitoring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary LED driver with MON pin feeding diagnostic IC for real-time modulation current telemetry. Use Value: MON output (1/96×IMOD) enables accurate closed-loop bias calibration without additional sensing circuitry. |
Use Scenario: Mainframe channel-to-peripheral optical link using ESCON protocol (200MB/s). IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-reliability LED driver supporting ESCON's strict jitter and extinction requirements in mission-critical environments. Use Value: Gold-metallized die construction and chip-and-wire layout ensure >10-year operational life under continuous thermal cycling. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LED driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3968ETG | Same die, 24-pin QFN package with exposed thermal pad; includes full pinout and PCB-mounting support. | Used where surface-mount assembly, thermal management, and production testability are required instead of hybrid die bonding. | Select MAX3968ETG for volume SFP modules; MAX3967AE/D only for custom hybrid assemblies with wire-bond capability. |
| LMH6521MA | Wideband current-feedback amplifier (not dedicated LED driver); no built-in tempco, prebias, or TX_DISABLE logic. | Requires external circuitry for modulation current control, disable function, and temperature compensation-increasing BOM and layout complexity. | Choose LMH6521MA only for non-standard, high-flexibility designs where programmability and SFP compliance are secondary. |
Compared with MAX3968ETG, MAX3967AE/D eliminates PCB footprint and thermal pad constraints but demands gold-wire bonding expertise; versus LMH6521MA, it integrates SFP-specific functions-reducing design risk, component count, and qualification effort for telecom-grade LED transmitters.
Availability
MAX3967AE/D is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for SFP transceiver modules, enterprise LAN optical interfaces, and ESCON channel designs requiring stable component supply, long-lifecycle assurance, and die-level integration flexibility.
Supply support for MAX3967AE/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) designs precision analog, mixed-signal, and RF ICs for communications, computing, and industrial systems.
The MAX3967 product line targets fiber-optic infrastructure applications, delivering SFP-compliant LED drivers with integrated tempco, prebias, and disable functionality for reliable multimode optical transmission.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX3967AE/D?
The MAX3967AE/D is specified for operation from -40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. While the die itself supports junction temperatures up to +150°C, electrical characteristics-including modulation current accuracy and tempco-are guaranteed only across the -40°C to +85°C range. Die testing occurs exclusively at TA = +25°C per datasheet note.
How is modulation current programmed on the MAX3967AE/D?
Modulation current on the MAX3967AE/D is set by an external resistor (RMODSET) connected between the MODSET pin and VEE. For example, a 1kΩ resistor yields ~75mA at +25°C with nominal tempco; values from 698Ω to 3.0kΩ support 66–22mA ranges. Capacitance must be avoided at MODSET to prevent high-frequency noise.
Does the MAX3967AE/D support SFP MSA-compliant transmit disable?
Yes, the MAX3967AE/D includes a dedicated TX_DISABLE pin that meets SFP Multi-Source Agreement requirements. When pulled high (>2.0V), it forces OUT+ to low state; when left open, the internal pull-down enables normal operation-ensuring safe default behavior during hot-plug events.
What is the purpose of the MON pin on the MAX3967AE/D?
The MON pin on the MAX3967AE/D sources a current equal to 1/96 of the modulation current (IMON = IMOD / 96), enabling real-time monitoring without shunt resistors. It must be connected to VEE through a resistor sized to keep MON voltage below 1.1V; unused, it should be left open to avoid loading the internal current source.
Can the MAX3967AE/D drive lasers, or is it limited to LEDs?
The MAX3967AE/D is specifically designed for high-speed multimode light-emitting diodes-not laser diodes. Its output architecture, prebias scheme, and 100mA max current align with LED forward-voltage and dynamic resistance profiles. Laser drivers require different biasing, safety interlocks, and APC feedback not present in the MAX3967AE/D.
MAX3967AE/D Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- -
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- -
- Data Rate:
- -
- Number of Channels:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- -
- Current - Supply:
- -
- Current - Modulation:
- -
- Current - Bias:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Supplier Device Package:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- -
MAX3967AE/D FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX3967AE/D through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX3967AE/D 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 MAX3967AE/D reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX3967AE/D are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX3967AE/D is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX3967AE/D?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX3967AE/D transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX3967AE/D?
MAX3967AE/D orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX3967AE/D 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 MAX3967AE/D?
For technical support, including MAX3967AE/D datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX3967AE/D requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX3967AE/D is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX3967AE/D 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 MAX3967AE/D meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX3967AE/D?
All MAX3967AE/D units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX3967AE/D, 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 MAX3967AE/D part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX3967AE/D:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX3967AE/D Tags

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EPC21701
EPC

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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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