Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4278EPA+
- Part No.:
- MAX4278EPA+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4278EPA+.pdf
- Description:
- IC BUFFER 1 CIRCUIT 8DIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,902
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX4278EPA+ from Maxim Integrated is a ±5V, closed-loop video/RF cable driver IC with fixed +2 voltage gain (6dB), 310MHz -3dB bandwidth, 1600V/µs slew rate, and low differential gain/phase error (0.04%/0.01°) - optimized for driving 75Ω coaxial video lines in broadcast and HD TV routing systems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4278EPA+ datasheet, MAX4278EPA+ pinout, MAX4278EPA+ application, or MAX4278EPA+ equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, DIP-8 package layout, real-world video distribution use cases, and validated alternative options for high-speed analog signal integrity design.
Technical Context
The MAX4278EPA+ uses a hybrid current-feedback/voltage-feedback architecture to achieve both high slew rate (1600V/µs) and low input offset voltage (0.5mV), enabling fast settling (<12ns to 0.1%) while maintaining precision gain accuracy (±1.0% max with 100Ω load). Its input stage avoids trade-offs typical of pure current-feedback amplifiers, delivering low bias current (1µA) and high PSRR (70–90dB).
Designed for 75Ω video line driving, it features short-circuit protection (150mA typical limit), 8000V HBM ESD rating, and stable operation into capacitive loads up to 100pF - supporting back-terminated cable runs without external compensation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| -3dB Bandwidth | 310MHz - supports full NTSC/PAL/HD video spectrum without attenuation |
| Voltage Gain | +2 (6dB) - fixed internal gain ideal for level-shifting and impedance-matched video distribution |
| Slew Rate | 1600V/µs - ensures distortion-free reproduction of fast video edges and sync pulses |
| Differential Gain/Phase Error | 0.04% / 0.01° - preserves color fidelity in broadcast-grade analog video signals |
| Input Offset Voltage | 0.5mV - minimizes DC shift in cascaded video amplifier stages |
| Supply Current | 8mA - enables multi-channel designs with constrained power budgets |
| Output Short-Circuit Current | 150mA - provides robust fault tolerance during cable hot-plug or mis-termination |
Pinout & Package
MAX4278EPA+ is housed in an 8-pin plastic DIP (dual in-line package) with 0.300" body width, through-hole mounting, and industry-standard pin spacing. Pin 1 is marked by a notch or dot; leads are tin-lead plated for compatibility with standard wave soldering.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | OUT | Amplified output terminal - drives 75Ω or 50Ω loads directly; requires proper termination to prevent reflections |
| 2 | N.C. | No connection - must remain unconnected; not internally bonded |
| 3 | GND | Analog ground reference - connects to system ground plane for noise control and stability |
| 4 | IN | Inverting input - accepts single-ended video signal; noninverting input is internally tied to GND |
| 5 | N.C. | No connection - must remain unconnected; not internally bonded |
| 6 | VCC | Positive supply - connect to +5V with local 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor |
| 7 | VEE | Negative supply - connect to -5V with local 0.1µF ceramic bypass capacitor |
| 8 | N.C. | No connection - must remain unconnected; not internally bonded |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hybrid feedback topology | Combines current-mode speed (1600V/µs) with voltage-mode precision (0.5mV VOS, 1µA IB) |
| 75Ω video line drive capability | Stable into 75Ω loads with <0.04% differential gain error - meets SMPTE 253M broadcast compliance |
| Capacitive load tolerance | Drives up to 100pF without oscillation - supports PCB traces and connector parasitics in compact layouts |
| High ESD immunity | 8000V HBM rating - protects against handling damage in production and field service environments |
| Short-circuit protected output | 150mA current limit prevents latch-up or thermal failure during sustained output-to-ground faults |
Applications
| Broadcast Video Routing | HD TV Signal Distribution |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Switching and distributing composite video between multiple studio monitors and recording devices. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Closed-loop buffer with +2 gain, driving back-terminated 75Ω coaxial cables to maintain signal integrity across 100m runs. Use Value: Preserves color fidelity (0.04% DG/0.01° DP) and edge sharpness (310MHz BW) required for SDI-adjacent analog infrastructure. |
Use Scenario: Feeding multiple HD component video outputs (Y/Pb/Pr) from a central source to wall plates or matrix switchers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current video driver providing ±2Vp-p swing into 75Ω loads at 1080i/720p rates. Use Value: Enables simultaneous drive of ≥6 video loads without gain droop or phase skew, reducing need for active splitters. |
| Medical Imaging Display Interface | Video Digitizer Preamp |
Use Scenario: Transmitting high-resolution endoscopic or ultrasound video over long coaxial cables to display processors. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-noise buffer (5nV/√Hz) with minimal group delay variation across 5MHz bandwidth. Use Value: Maintains diagnostic image contrast and spatial resolution by suppressing differential phase-induced hue shifts. |
Use Scenario: Conditioning analog video prior to sampling by flash ADCs such as MAX100/MAX101. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-output-impedance driver (0.1Ω) delivering clean 2Vp-p signal into 50Ω ADC inputs. Use Value: Eliminates sampling errors caused by source impedance mismatch, ensuring >8 effective bits at 250Msps. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar video/RF cable driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4278ESA+ | Same electrical specs; SO-8 package (surface-mount) vs. DIP-8 (through-hole); 4.9mm × 6.0mm footprint | Preferred for automated PCB assembly and space-constrained layouts; lacks DIP's mechanical robustness for prototyping | Select MAX4278ESA+ when board area is limited and reflow soldering is available. |
| THS3201D | Higher 1.8GHz bandwidth but fixed unity gain; 2200V/µs slew rate; requires external gain-setting resistors | Better for wideband RF (>100MHz) but less optimized for 75Ω video flatness and differential error specs | Choose THS3201D only if >1GHz small-signal bandwidth is mandatory and video-specific DG/DP performance is secondary. |
Compared with MAX4278EPA+, MAX4278ESA+ offers identical analog performance in a smaller surface-mount package, while THS3201D trades video-optimized linearity for raw bandwidth - making MAX4278EPA+ the preferred choice for broadcast-compliant 75Ω video distribution where gain stability and differential error matter most.
Availability
MAX4278EPA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for broadcast video routing, HD TV signal distribution, and medical imaging display interfaces requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C).
Supply support for MAX4278EPA+ 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 power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.
The MAX4278EPA+ belongs to Maxim's high-speed video amplifier product line, engineered specifically for broadcast-grade analog video signal conditioning, cable driving, and distribution amplifier functions in professional AV infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for MAX4278EPA+?
The MAX4278EPA+ is rated for operation from -40°C to +85°C. This industrial temperature range ensures reliable performance in broadcast equipment racks, medical imaging consoles, and outdoor video enclosures where ambient temperatures fluctuate significantly. All DC and AC specifications in the datasheet are guaranteed across this full range.
Does MAX4278EPA+ require external gain-setting components?
No, MAX4278EPA+ does not require external gain-setting components. It is a fully integrated closed-loop buffer with a factory-trimmed fixed voltage gain of +2 (6dB). The internal feedback network eliminates resistor matching errors and layout sensitivity, ensuring consistent gain accuracy (±1.0% max) across production units and temperature.
Can MAX4278EPA+ drive multiple 75Ω video loads simultaneously?
Yes, MAX4278EPA+ can drive up to six back-terminated 75Ω video loads at ±2Vp-p output swing under +25°C conditions. Its high output current capability (150mA short-circuit limit) and low output impedance (0.1Ω) enable stable multi-drop configurations without gain droop or phase skew - a key advantage over general-purpose op-amps in video distribution amplifiers.
What is the recommended power supply bypassing for MAX4278EPA+?
For MAX4278EPA+, place a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor between each supply pin (VCC and VEE) and GND, located within 5mm of the device. Use short, low-inductance traces to minimize high-frequency loop area. For systems with noisy supplies, add a 10µF tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitor in parallel on each rail to suppress low-frequency ripple.
Is MAX4278EPA+ compatible with 50Ω RF systems?
Yes, MAX4278EPA+ is explicitly characterized for both 50Ω and 75Ω loads. Its output stage delivers full ±2Vp-p swing into 50Ω with <0.1dB gain flatness up to 150MHz, making it suitable for RF test equipment, CATV upstream paths, and instrumentation where 50Ω impedance matching is required alongside video bandwidth.
MAX4278EPA+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Amplifier Type:
- Buffer
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- -
- Slew Rate:
- 1600V/µs
- Gain Bandwidth Product:
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 310 MHz
- Current - Input Bias:
- 1 µA
- Voltage - Input Offset:
- 500 µV
- Current - Supply:
- 8mA
- Current - Output / Channel:
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-PDIP
MAX4278EPA+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4278EPA+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4278EPA+ 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 MAX4278EPA+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4278EPA+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4278EPA+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4278EPA+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4278EPA+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4278EPA+?
MAX4278EPA+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4278EPA+ 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 MAX4278EPA+?
For technical support, including MAX4278EPA+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4278EPA+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4278EPA+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4278EPA+ 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 MAX4278EPA+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4278EPA+?
All MAX4278EPA+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4278EPA+, 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 MAX4278EPA+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4278EPA+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX4278EPA+ 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…
