Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4201ESA+T
- Part No.:
- MAX4201ESA+T
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4201ESA+T.pdf
- Description:
- IC BUFFER 1 CIRCUIT 8SOIC
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:3,019
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Product details
Overview
The MAX4201ESA+T from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, ultra-high-speed open-loop buffer optimized for 50Ω transmission line driving. It delivers 780MHz -3dB bandwidth, 280MHz 0.1dB gain flatness, 4200V/μs slew rate, ±52mA output current, and integrated 50Ω output termination - enabling direct coaxial cable interface in IF/RF signal chains and high-speed ADC input buffering.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4201ESA+T datasheet, MAX4201ESA+T pinout, MAX4201ESA+T application, or MAX4201ESA+T equivalent, this page provides verified electrical parameters, package-specific layout guidance, real-world capacitive-load stability behavior, and validated alternatives for 50Ω high-frequency analog signal routing.
Technical Context
The MAX4201ESA+T employs a proprietary open-loop architecture with local feedback around a class-AB output stage, eliminating dominant-pole compensation to achieve near-constant 405ps group delay across its full bandwidth. Its fixed 50Ω output termination forms a voltage divider with the load, reducing delivered amplitude by half but ensuring impedance-matched signal integrity on 50Ω lines.
This architecture avoids closed-loop instability with capacitive loads while maintaining stable operation up to 220pF without external isolation resistors - unlike feedback-based buffers. Input presents 500kΩ || 2pF impedance, and output impedance is tightly controlled at 50Ω (typ) at DC, rising only to 6Ω at 10MHz per characterization data.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| -3dB Bandwidth | 780MHz - supports full-spectrum fidelity through UHF bands without roll-off |
| 0.1dB Gain Flatness | 280MHz - preserves amplitude accuracy across wide IF bandwidths |
| Slew Rate | 4200V/μs - enables clean 2V-step response in ≤12ns with 0.1% settling |
| Output Current | ±52mA - drives 50Ω loads to ±2.1V swing with <1.3% differential gain error |
| Voltage-Noise Density | 2.1nV/√Hz - maintains SNR >68dB in 100MHz baseband ADC front-ends |
| Power Supply | ±5V - compatible with standard dual-rail analog supply rails; draws only 2.2mA quiescent per buffer |
| Operating Temp | -40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial and communications infrastructure environments |
Pinout & Package
MAX4201ESA+T is housed in an 8-pin SOIC package (package code S8-2), with exposed pad not internally connected. Pin 1 is marked with a beveled corner or dot; pin numbering follows standard SOIC convention (counterclockwise from pin 1).
| Pin | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | OUT | Buffer output with integrated 50Ω series termination - connects directly to 50Ω coax or PCB trace |
| 2 | IN | Inverting-capable high-impedance input (500kΩ || 2pF); requires proper 50Ω source termination to avoid peaking |
| 3 | N.C. | No internal connection - must remain unconnected; no pull-up/down or bypassing |
| 4 | VEE | Negative power supply rail (−5V typical); requires local 0.1μF ceramic bypass to ground |
| 5 | N.C. | No internal connection - electrically isolated; leave floating |
| 6 | VCC | Positive power supply rail (+5V typical); requires local 0.1μF ceramic bypass to ground |
| 7 | N.C. | No internal connection - no internal tie; do not connect |
| 8 | N.C. | No internal connection - unused pin; maintain open circuit |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated 50Ω Output Termination | Eliminates external resistor count and layout parasitics for 50Ω line driving - reduces BOM and improves return loss |
| Open-Loop Architecture | Delivers constant 405ps group delay across 100kHz–1GHz - critical for phase-coherent IF sampling and vector signal analysis |
| Capacitive-Load Stability | Operates stably with up to 220pF load capacitance without oscillation - simplifies PCB routing and connector interface design |
| Low Noise Performance | 2.1nV/√Hz voltage noise + 0.8pA/√Hz current noise - preserves dynamic range when buffering low-level RF/IF signals |
| High Output Drive | ±52mA into 50Ω enables 2.1Vpp swing with <0.15° differential phase error - meets NTSC/PAL video and broadband comms specs |
Applications
| High-Speed ADC Input Buffer | 50Ω Coaxial Cable Driver |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Driving the analog input of a 125MSPS pipeline ADC in a software-defined radio receiver. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Open-loop buffer isolating ADC input from source impedance variations while preserving transient fidelity and phase linearity. Use Value: 780MHz bandwidth and 4200V/μs slew rate prevent aperture uncertainty-induced distortion; 405ps group delay ensures channel-to-channel timing alignment. |
Use Scenario: Transmitting IF signals from a mixer output to a downstream demodulator over 3m of RG-58 coax. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Impedance-matched driver with integrated 50Ω termination minimizing reflections and standing waves. Use Value: Fixed 50Ω output resistance eliminates need for discrete termination, reducing layout sensitivity and improving VSWR <1.2:1 up to 500MHz. |
| Wireless LAN Front-End | IF Signal Distribution Amplifier |
Use Scenario: Buffering 2.4GHz/5GHz IF outputs from a zero-IF transceiver before splitting to multiple filter banks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Wideband gain block delivering flat response and low group delay variation across WLAN channels. Use Value: 280MHz 0.1dB gain flatness ensures uniform amplitude response across 802.11ac 160MHz channels; low 2.1nV/√Hz noise prevents EVM degradation. |
Use Scenario: Distributing a 70MHz IF signal from a satellite LNB to four parallel demodulator paths in a broadcast headend. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-phase-distortion distribution amplifier maintaining signal coherence across all outputs. Use Value: Near-constant 405ps group delay across frequency enables coherent multi-path processing; ±52mA drive supports simultaneous 50Ω loads. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed open-loop buffer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| LMH6723MA/NOPB | Single 50Ω-terminated buffer; 650MHz -3dB bandwidth, 2.9nV/√Hz noise, ±60mA drive, SO-8 package | Lacks 0.1dB gain flatness spec; higher noise limits SNR-critical ADC buffering | Preferred where higher output current outweighs bandwidth and flatness requirements |
| ADA4817-1ARZ-R7 | Single FET-input op amp; 1GHz GBW, 250V/μs slew, no integrated termination, SO-8 package | Requires external 50Ω series resistor; closed-loop configuration introduces group delay variation | Selected when programmable gain or feedback-based precision is required alongside speed |
Compared with LMH6723MA/NOPB and ADA4817-1ARZ-R7, the MAX4201ESA+T uniquely combines guaranteed 280MHz 0.1dB flatness, integrated 50Ω termination, and open-loop group-delay linearity - making it the only option that delivers matched impedance, phase coherence, and amplitude fidelity simultaneously in fixed-gain 50Ω signal routing.
Availability
MAX4201ESA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed ADC input buffering, 50Ω coaxial cable driving, and IF signal distribution requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX4201ESA+T 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 demanding industrial, communications, and automotive applications.
The MAX4200–MAX4205 family was engineered specifically for open-loop, impedance-matched analog signal routing in RF/IF signal chains - prioritizing group-delay linearity, termination integration, and capacitive-load robustness over closed-loop precision.
FAQ
What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX4201ESA+T can drive without oscillation?
The MAX4201ESA+T remains stable with up to 220pF of capacitive load without external isolation components, as confirmed by Figure 2 and Figure 5 in the official datasheet. This stability arises from its open-loop architecture, which avoids phase-shift-induced positive feedback. For optimal flatness beyond 100pF, a 10Ω isolation resistor is recommended - though the integrated 50Ω termination already provides inherent damping for many 50Ω system interfaces.
Does the MAX4201ESA+T require external termination resistors when driving a 50Ω coaxial cable?
No, the MAX4201ESA+T does not require external termination resistors when driving a 50Ω coaxial cable because it integrates a precise 50Ω series output termination. As shown in the Typical Application Circuit, this internal resistor forms a matched source termination with the cable's characteristic impedance, minimizing reflections. However, the receiving end must still be terminated in 50Ω to complete the match - the MAX4201ESA+T handles only the source-side termination.
What is the actual voltage gain of the MAX4201ESA+T when driving a 50Ω load?
The MAX4201ESA+T has a nominal small-signal voltage gain of 0.50 V/V (−6dB) when driving a 50Ω load, due to its integrated 50Ω output resistor forming a voltage divider with the load. Datasheet Table "Voltage Gain" specifies a typical value of 0.50 V/V (range 0.42–0.58 V/V) under REXT = 50Ω conditions. This fixed attenuation is intentional and enables predictable, impedance-stable signal transfer without feedback network design.
Can the MAX4201ESA+T operate from a single +10V supply instead of dual ±5V rails?
No, the MAX4201ESA+T is specified exclusively for dual-supply operation from ±4V to ±5.5V. The Absolute Maximum Ratings table explicitly defines voltage on any pin relative to GND as (VEE − 0.3V) to (VCC + 0.3V), and the DC Electrical Characteristics are tested only under ±5V conditions. Single-supply operation is not characterized, and attempting +10V/GND would violate the VEE pin rating and risk permanent damage.
How does the group delay performance of the MAX4201ESA+T compare to conventional op amps?
The MAX4201ESA+T achieves a nearly constant 405ps group delay from 100kHz to 1GHz, as stated in the AC Electrical Characteristics table and confirmed in Figure 7. In contrast, conventional voltage-feedback op amps exhibit group delay variation exceeding 100ps across similar bandwidths due to dominant-pole compensation. This flatness makes the MAX4201ESA+T uniquely suitable for phase-sensitive applications like I/Q signal processing and time-interleaved ADCs where delay matching is critical.
MAX4201ESA+T Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Last Time Buy
- Amplifier Type:
- Buffer
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- -
- Slew Rate:
- 4200V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 780 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 800 nA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- 1 mV
- Current - Supply:
- 2.2mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- 52 mA
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- 8 V
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- 11 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-SOIC
MAX4201ESA+T FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4201ESA+T through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4201ESA+T 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 MAX4201ESA+T reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4201ESA+T are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4201ESA+T is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4201ESA+T?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4201ESA+T transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4201ESA+T?
MAX4201ESA+T orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4201ESA+T 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 MAX4201ESA+T?
For technical support, including MAX4201ESA+T datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4201ESA+T requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4201ESA+T is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4201ESA+T 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 MAX4201ESA+T meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4201ESA+T?
All MAX4201ESA+T units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4201ESA+T, 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 MAX4201ESA+T part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4201ESA+T:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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