My Inquiry
My Account
Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4178EPA+
- Part No.:
- MAX4178EPA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4178EPA+.pdf
- Description:
- GAIN OF +1 CLOSED-LOOP BUFFER
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:4,709
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX4178EPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a ±5V, unity-gain (0 dB), high-speed closed-loop video buffer IC optimized for 75Ω video cable driving. It delivers 330MHz -3dB bandwidth, 1300V/µs slew rate, and <0.01° differential phase / 0.04% differential gain error - enabling broadcast-grade analog video routing in SD/HD systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4178EPA+ datasheet, MAX4178EPA+ pinout, MAX4178EPA+ application, or MAX4178EPA+ equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, pin-level design meaning, real-world video system use cases, and validated alternative options for 75Ω cable driver selection.
Technical Context
The MAX4178EPA+ implements a hybrid current-feedback/voltage-feedback architecture, combining high slew rate and low power with low input offset voltage (0.5mV typ) and bias current (1µA typ). Its fixed +1 closed-loop gain eliminates external feedback resistor networks, simplifying layout for high-frequency stability.
It operates from dual ±5V supplies, drives 50Ω or 75Ω loads directly, and maintains 150MHz 0.1dB flatness bandwidth - critical for composite, S-video, and component video signal integrity. Output short-circuit protection limits current to 150mA, ensuring robustness in field-deployed video distribution hardware.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| -3dB Bandwidth | 330MHz - supports full NTSC/PAL bandwidth and HD baseband video without attenuation |
| Slew Rate | 1300V/µs - enables clean 2Vp-p step response with ≤12ns settling to 0.1% |
| Differential Phase/ Gain Error | 0.01° / 0.04% - meets broadcast video fidelity requirements per SMPTE 253M |
| Input Offset Voltage | 0.5mV max - minimizes DC shift in cascaded video amplifier stages |
| Supply Current | 8mA - enables multi-channel video distribution without excessive thermal load |
| Output Short-Circuit Current | 150mA - protects against sustained shorts to GND without latch-up or damage |
| ESD Protection | 8000V HBM - ensures reliability during board handling and system integration |
Pinout & Package
MAX4178EPA+ uses an 8-pin plastic DIP package (0.300" wide), compatible with through-hole prototyping and legacy video equipment PCB layouts. Pin 1 is top-left corner (notch side), with standard DIP numbering.
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | No Connection | Internally unused; must be left floating or tied to GND for mechanical stability only |
| 2 | Inverting Input (N.C.) | No internal connection - not used in fixed-gain configuration; leave unconnected |
| 3 | GND | Analog ground reference; requires low-impedance star connection to minimize video noise coupling |
| 4 | VEE | Negative supply rail (–5V); bypass to GND with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor within 5mm |
| 5 | No Connection | Internally unused; must be left floating or tied to GND for mechanical stability only |
| 6 | VCC | Positive supply rail (+5V); bypass to GND with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor within 5mm |
| 7 | IN | High-impedance input (1MΩ typical); accepts ±2.5V linear video signals with minimal loading |
| 8 | OUT | Low-output-impedance driver (0.1Ω typ); directly drives 75Ω coaxial cable with back-termination |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hybrid Feedback Architecture | Combines current-mode speed (330MHz BW) with voltage-mode precision (0.5mV VOS) |
| Fixed Unity-Gain Configuration | Eliminates external resistors - reduces layout sensitivity and parasitic capacitance at RF frequencies |
| 75Ω Video Cable Drive | Optimized output stage delivers ±2Vp-p into 75Ω with <0.04% differential gain error |
| Capacitive Load Tolerance | Stable with up to 100pF load - accommodates PCB trace capacitance and connector parasitics |
| Broadcast-Grade Linearity | 0.01° differential phase error at 3.58MHz - preserves color fidelity in NTSC composite video |
Applications
| SD/HD Broadcast Routing | Professional Video Switcher Output Stage |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Distribution of composite or component video signals across multiple studio monitors and recording devices via 75Ω coaxial infrastructure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage unity-gain buffer isolating switcher core from cable capacitance and termination mismatches. Use Value: Maintains <0.04% differential gain error across 0–5.5MHz, preserving luminance/chrominance amplitude relationships required by SMPTE RP 168. |
Use Scenario: Driving multiple outputs from a broadcast-grade video switcher with simultaneous feed to on-air, preview, and record paths. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current output driver delivering ±2Vp-p into six parallel 75Ω loads without gain droop or phase skew. Use Value: 150mA short-circuit current capability enables safe fan-out to ≥6 back-terminated cables at +25°C. |
| Medical Endoscopy Imaging | Legacy CCTV System Upgrade |
Use Scenario: Transmitting high-resolution analog video from endoscopic camera heads over long coaxial runs to display processors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise, low-distortion buffer placed at camera head output to overcome cable loss and preserve SNR. Use Value: 5nV/√Hz input voltage noise and –81dBc SFDR ensure diagnostic image clarity without false contours or ghosting artifacts. |
Use Scenario: Retrofitting aging analog CCTV matrix switchers to support higher-resolution analog cameras (e.g., 800TVL+) without replacing entire infrastructure. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Drop-in replacement for obsolete video drivers, restoring 0.1dB flatness to 150MHz for improved edge sharpness. Use Value: 150MHz 0.1dB flatness bandwidth extends usable frequency range beyond legacy 50MHz designs, enhancing resolution retention. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar video buffer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4278EPA+ | Fixed +2V/V gain (6dB), 310MHz -3dB bandwidth, 1600V/µs slew rate | Used where signal amplification is required before cable transmission (e.g., compensating for splitter loss) | Select when system gain budget requires +2x voltage gain rather than unity; same pinout and thermal profile |
| THS3091D | Single-ended output, 210MHz bandwidth, ±15V supply capable, higher quiescent current (11mA) | Preferred in industrial systems requiring wider supply range or single-supply operation with level-shifting | Choose for ±12V/±15V systems or where higher output voltage swing (>±3V) is needed; not pin-compatible |
Compared with MAX4278EPA+, the MAX4178EPA+ offers superior gain flatness and lower differential phase error at unity gain, making it optimal for direct cable drive without amplification. Versus THS3091D, it consumes less power and achieves higher bandwidth at ±5V, but lacks rail-to-rail output swing and wide-supply flexibility.
Availability
MAX4178EPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for broadcast routing, professional video switching, and medical imaging systems requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX4178EPA+ 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 U.S.-based semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF solutions for demanding signal-chain applications.
The MAX4178/MAX4278 family was designed specifically for high-fidelity analog video signal conditioning - targeting broadcast, medical, and professional AV equipment where differential gain/phase accuracy and wide bandwidth are non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MAX4178EPA+?
The MAX4178EPA+ is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C. This industrial temperature range ensures reliable performance in broadcast control rooms, outdoor CCTV enclosures, and medical imaging carts without derating. All electrical specifications in the datasheet are guaranteed across this full range, including gain accuracy, bandwidth, and differential phase error.
Can MAX4178EPA+ drive 50Ω loads, or is it limited to 75Ω?
MAX4178EPA+ is explicitly characterized and optimized for both 50Ω and 75Ω loads. The datasheet confirms ±2.0V output swing into 50Ω and ±2.5V into 100Ω, with differential gain/phase error specified under 75Ω conditions. Its low 0.1Ω output impedance allows stable driving of either impedance without external matching networks.
Does MAX4178EPA+ require external feedback components?
No. MAX4178EPA+ is a fully integrated, fixed-gain +1 closed-loop buffer. Pins 1, 2, and 5 are no-connect; feedback is internal and factory-trimmed. This eliminates resistor tolerance errors, parasitic capacitance from external traces, and layout sensitivity - critical for maintaining 330MHz bandwidth and 0.01° differential phase accuracy.
How does MAX4178EPA+ handle capacitive loads like long PCB traces or connectors?
MAX4178EPA+ remains stable with up to 100pF of capacitive load without oscillation, though some peaking or ringing may occur. For loads >100pF, an isolation resistor (e.g., 20Ω) between OUT and the load restores stability. This behavior is documented in Figures 2a/3a of the datasheet and validated across temperature and supply variations.
Is MAX4178EPA+ pin-compatible with other packages in the same family?
Yes - the MAX4178EPA+ (8-pin DIP) shares identical pinout and function with MAX4178ESA+ (SO), MAX4178EUA+ (µMAX), and MAX4178EUK-T (SOT23-5), except that the SOT23-5 variant uses only 5 pins (IN, OUT, VCC, VEE, GND) and omits N.C. pins. This enables drop-in substitution across form factors without circuit redesign.
MAX4178EPA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- MAX4178
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Amplifier Type:
- Buffer, Current Feedback
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- Single-Ended
- Slew Rate:
- 1.3kV/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 330 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 1 µA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- 500 µV
- Current - Supply:
- 8mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 100 mA
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 12 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
MAX4178EPA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4178EPA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4178EPA+ 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 MAX4178EPA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4178EPA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4178EPA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4178EPA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4178EPA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4178EPA+?
MAX4178EPA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4178EPA+ 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 MAX4178EPA+?
For technical support, including MAX4178EPA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4178EPA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4178EPA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4178EPA+ 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 MAX4178EPA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4178EPA+?
All MAX4178EPA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4178EPA+, 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 MAX4178EPA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4178EPA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX4178EPA+ Tags
-
LM358DT
STMicroelectronics
-
LM358DR
Texas Instruments
-
LM2904DR
Texas Instruments
-
LM358ADR
Texas Instruments
-
LM2904DGKR
Texas Instruments
-
LM324DR
Texas Instruments
-
MCP6006T-E/OT
Microchip Technology
-
MCP6006UT-E/OT
Microchip Technology
-
LM324PWR
Texas Instruments
-
LM2902PWR
Texas Instruments
-
LM2902DR
Texas Instruments
-
LM358P
Texas Instruments
Tech Hub
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
Operational amplifier guide covering op amp basics, feedback, ideal vs real op amps, common configurations, buffer circuits, offset, bias current, gain-bandwidth, slew rate, rail-to-rail limits and sel…
Jumper cables guide covering safe connection order, red and black clamp placement, final ground connection, cable gauge, length, clamp quality, copper vs CCA cables, jump starter comparison and battery…
