Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4202EUK-T

Overview

The MAX4202EUK-T from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, ultra-high-speed, open-loop buffer optimized for driving 75Ω coaxial transmission lines in IF/communications systems. It delivers 780MHz -3dB bandwidth, 280MHz 0.1dB gain flatness, 4200V/μs slew rate, ±44mA output current, and features integrated 75Ω back-termination resistors - enabling direct interface to video and broadband data lines without external components.

For engineers reviewing the MAX4202EUK-T datasheet, MAX4202EUK-T pinout, MAX4202EUK-T application, or MAX4202EUK-T equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specifications, SOT23-5 package layout guidance, real-world capacitive-load stability behavior, and validated alternatives for 75Ω line-driving applications in high-speed ADC/DAC interfaces and wireless infrastructure.

Technical Context

The MAX4202EUK-T employs a proprietary open-loop architecture with local feedback around its class-AB output stage, eliminating dominant-pole compensation and achieving near-constant 405ps group delay across frequency. Its 75Ω integrated termination resistor forms a voltage divider with the load, reducing delivered amplitude by ~50% but ensuring impedance-matched signal integrity on 75Ω lines.

This device operates from ±4V to ±5.5V dual supplies, draws only 2.2mA quiescent current per buffer, and maintains stable performance into capacitive loads up to 120pF - unlike closed-loop buffers, it avoids oscillation due to absence of phase-shifted negative feedback, though RC roll-off and L-C peaking require careful PCB layout.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX4202EUK-T is housed in a space-saving 5-pin SOT23-5 package (package code U5-1), with exposed pad not connected. The device uses a single-ended input/output topology and requires dual ±5V supplies. Pin 1 is NC (no internal connection); pins 2–5 are functionally assigned as shown below.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar open-loop buffer applications.

Compared with MAX4202ESA and LMH6723MA/NOPB, the MAX4202EUK-T uniquely combines SOT23-5 footprint, 780MHz bandwidth, and guaranteed 280MHz 0.1dB gain flatness - making it optimal for miniaturized, high-fidelity IF and broadcast video designs where board area and phase linearity are critical.

Availability

MAX4202EUK-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed ADC input buffering, 75Ω video line driving, wireless LAN IF amplification, digital transmission line driving, and IF/communications system signal conditioning requiring stable component supply and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX4202EUK-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) is a semiconductor company specializing in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and RF solutions for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX4200–MAX4205 family was designed specifically for ultra-high-speed, low-noise, open-loop buffering in RF, IF, and video signal chains - emphasizing impedance-matched line driving, minimal group delay variation, and robust capacitive-load stability.

FAQ

What is the recommended power supply bypassing for MAX4202EUK-T?

Each supply pin (VCC and VEE) of the MAX4202EUK-T must be bypassed to ground with a 0.1μF ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the respective pin. This minimizes high-frequency supply impedance and prevents instability. Additional bulk capacitance (e.g., 1–10μF tantalum) may be added nearby for low-frequency ripple suppression, but the 0.1μF cap is mandatory for RF stability. Failure to implement proper bypassing degrades gain flatness and increases harmonic distortion in the MAX4202EUK-T.

Does MAX4202EUK-T require external gain-setting resistors?

No, the MAX4202EUK-T is an open-loop buffer with fixed voltage gain slightly less than +1V/V (typically 0.50V/V when driving 75Ω). It does not use external feedback resistors. Its gain is set internally by the integrated 75Ω termination and output stage architecture. External resistors are unnecessary and would disrupt the calibrated 75Ω source match - the MAX4202EUK-T is intended for direct 75Ω line driving without gain adjustment.

Can MAX4202EUK-T drive a 50Ω load?

The MAX4202EUK-T is optimized for 75Ω loads and includes a 75Ω internal series termination. Driving a 50Ω load results in impedance mismatch, increased reflections, reduced output voltage swing (~2.0V_P-P instead of 2.3V_P-P), and degraded gain flatness above 100MHz. For 50Ω applications, use MAX4201EUK-T instead - its internal 50Ω termination ensures proper matching. Using MAX4202EUK-T on 50Ω lines compromises signal integrity and violates its specified operating conditions.

What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX4202EUK-T can drive without oscillation?

The MAX4202EUK-T remains unconditionally stable into ≥120pF capacitive load without oscillation, as confirmed by manufacturer test data and application notes. However, bandwidth rolls off progressively: at 47pF, -3dB point remains near 780MHz; at 120pF, bandwidth drops to ~350MHz due to RC filtering with the 75Ω output impedance. Layout parasitics should be minimized - keep output traces short and avoid stubs to preserve the MAX4202EUK-T's high-frequency performance.

Is the NC pin (Pin 1) on MAX4202EUK-T required to be grounded?

No, Pin 1 of the MAX4202EUK-T is a true no-connect (N.C.) with no internal connection. It may be left floating, tied to ground, or routed as a keep-out zone - none affects device operation. Maxim's datasheet explicitly states "No Connection. Not Internally Connected." Grounding Pin 1 is acceptable for mechanical stability or EMI shielding but provides no electrical benefit. Do not route signals or power through Pin 1 on any MAX4202EUK-T PCB layout.