Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4278EUA
- Part No.:
- MAX4278EUA
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4278EUA.pdf
- Description:
- IC BUFFER 1 CIRCUIT 8UMAX
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:4,533
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX4278EUA from Maxim Integrated is a +2 voltage-gain (6dB), ±5V dual-supply, high-speed closed-loop buffer IC optimized for 75Ω video/RF cable driving. It delivers 310MHz -3dB bandwidth, 1600V/µs slew rate, and <0.01° differential phase / 0.04% differential gain error - enabling broadcast-grade analog video routing in HD TV systems and video switching matrices.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4278EUA datasheet, MAX4278EUA pinout, MAX4278EUA application, or MAX4278EUA equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, µMAX-8 package pin mapping, real-world video distribution use cases, and validated alternative options for high-fidelity signal buffering where low distortion, fast settling, and 75Ω drive capability are critical.
Technical Context
The MAX4278EUA implements a hybrid current-feedback/voltage-feedback architecture: its unique input stage retains high slew rate (1600V/µs) and low power while achieving low input offset voltage (0.5mV typ) and high PSRR (70–90dB). This enables precision gain accuracy (±1.0% max with 100Ω load) without sacrificing speed.
It operates as a fixed-gain +2 closed-loop buffer with internal feedback resistors, eliminating external component dependencies. Its output drives 75Ω coaxial cables directly, supports short-circuit protection (150mA typical limit), and maintains stability with ≤100pF capacitive loads - making it suitable for back-terminated video distribution amplifiers and flash ADC preamps.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| -3dB Bandwidth | 310MHz - supports full NTSC/PAL/HD video baseband signals without attenuation. |
| Voltage Gain | +2 (6dB) - fixed internal gain, eliminates external resistor matching errors in video gain stages. |
| Slew Rate | 1600V/µs - ensures sub-12ns settling to 0.1% for 2V step inputs, critical for sharp video edges. |
| Differential Phase/Gain Error | 0.01° / 0.04% - preserves color fidelity in broadcast video transmission over 75Ω coax. |
| Supply Current | 8mA - enables low-power operation in multi-channel video distribution amplifiers. |
| Input Offset Voltage | 0.5mV max - minimizes DC shift in cascaded analog video paths, reducing baseline drift. |
| Output Short-Circuit Current | 150mA - protects against sustained ground faults without latch-up or damage. |
Pinout & Package
MAX4278EUA is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3mm × 3mm, 0.5mm pitch), pin-compatible with SO and PDIP variants. The µMAX package enables high-density PCB layouts for multi-channel video routing boards while maintaining thermal performance up to +85°C.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 5, 8 | No Connection | Unused pins; must be left floating - no internal connection or function. |
| 2 | IN | Inverting input terminal; accepts single-ended video signal referenced to GND. |
| 3 | GND | Analog ground reference; requires low-impedance connection to system ground plane. |
| 4 | OUT | Buffered output; drives 75Ω coax directly with minimal external components. |
| 6 | VCC | Positive supply (+5V); bypass with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor close to pin. |
| 7 | VEE | Negative supply (−5V); bypass with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor close to pin. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hybrid feedback topology | Combines current-mode speed (1600V/µs) with voltage-mode precision (0.5mV VOS, 70–90dB PSRR). |
| 75Ω video drive capability | Optimized output stage delivers ±2Vp-p into 75Ω loads with <0.04% differential gain error. |
| Fixed +2 gain configuration | Internally set gain eliminates external resistor tolerance errors and layout sensitivity in video gain blocks. |
| Capacitive load tolerance | Stable with up to 100pF load capacitance - accommodates PCB trace capacitance and connector parasitics. |
| ESD protection | 8000V HBM - robust handling during board assembly and field service of video equipment. |
Applications
| Broadcast Video Routing | HD TV Signal Distribution |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Switching and distributing composite video signals across multiple studio monitors and recording devices in broadcast control rooms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-gain +2 buffer isolating source from cable impedance mismatches and fan-out loading effects. Use Value: Maintains <0.01° differential phase error across 3.58MHz color subcarrier, preserving hue accuracy in NTSC/PAL feeds. |
Use Scenario: Driving multiple 75Ω coaxial outputs from a single HD video source in consumer AV receivers or professional media servers. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current output stage delivering ±2Vp-p into six parallel 150Ω loads (equivalent to three 75Ω cables). Use Value: Enables lossless signal splitting without external active components - reduces BOM count and layout complexity. |
| Video Digitizer Preamp | Medical Imaging Signal Conditioning |
|
Use Scenario: Buffering analog video before digitization by high-speed flash ADCs (e.g., MAX100/MAX101) in endoscopic or surgical imaging systems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-output-impedance driver matching 50Ω ADC input impedance while preserving transient fidelity. Use Value: 250MHz full-power bandwidth ensures accurate capture of fast video edges without slew-induced distortion. |
Use Scenario: Conditioning real-time ultrasound or fluoroscopy video signals prior to compression and display in diagnostic imaging workstations. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Precision gain block with <0.04% differential gain error to prevent contrast nonlinearity in grayscale medical images. Use Value: Low 5nV/√Hz input noise prevents SNR degradation in low-light imaging modalities. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar high-speed video buffer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4278ESA | Same electrical specs; 8-pin SO package (5.0mm × 6.2mm) instead of µMAX (3mm × 3mm). | Preferred for through-hole prototyping or legacy SO-based video boards requiring larger pad spacing. | Select when board space allows larger footprint and thermal mass improves power dissipation at ambient >70°C. |
| THS3201DR | Higher 1.8GHz bandwidth but +1 gain only; requires external gain-setting resistors for +2 configuration. | Used in wideband test equipment where bandwidth >1GHz is required, not broadcast video. | Choose only if >1GHz small-signal bandwidth is mandatory and design can accommodate external resistor matching tolerances. |
Compared with MAX4278ESA, the MAX4278EUA saves 73% PCB area in µMAX packaging while maintaining identical AC/DC performance; versus THS3201DR, it trades raw bandwidth for guaranteed +2 gain accuracy and lower differential distortion - making it superior for broadcast video integrity.
Availability
MAX4278EUA is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for broadcast video routing, HD TV signal distribution, and medical imaging signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges (−40°C to +85°C) and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX4278EUA 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 and mixed-signal ICs for demanding industrial, communications, and consumer applications - emphasizing high performance, integration, and reliability.
The MAX4278EUA belongs to Maxim's high-speed video buffer product line, engineered specifically for low-distortion, 75Ω/50Ω cable driving in broadcast, medical, and instrumentation systems where differential gain/phase fidelity is non-negotiable.
FAQ
What is the operating supply voltage range for the MAX4278EUA?
The MAX4278EUA operates from dual ±5V supplies (VCC = +5V, VEE = −5V), with absolute maximum ratings allowing up to ±6V. It is not rated for single-supply operation. All published specifications - including 310MHz bandwidth and 1600V/µs slew rate - are guaranteed under ±5V conditions per the datasheet's test conditions.
Does the MAX4278EUA require external gain-setting resistors?
No. The MAX4278EUA is internally configured for a precise +2 voltage gain (6dB) using laser-trimmed thin-film resistors. Unlike general-purpose op-amps, it needs no external feedback network - simplifying layout and eliminating resistor tolerance-induced gain error in video signal paths.
Can the MAX4278EUA drive multiple 75Ω coaxial cables simultaneously?
Yes. The MAX4278EUA's high output current (150mA short-circuit limit) allows driving up to six parallel 150Ω loads (equivalent to three 75Ω cables) at ±2Vp-p output swing. For higher channel counts, output amplitude should be reduced to ±1Vp-p to maintain stability and thermal safety.
What is the maximum capacitive load the MAX4278EUA can drive without oscillation?
The MAX4278EUA remains stable with up to 100pF of total capacitive load at its output, including PCB trace capacitance and connector parasitics. Beyond 100pF, ringing or peaking may occur; adding a 20Ω isolation resistor between OUT and the load restores stability for larger capacitances.
Is the MAX4278EUA pin-compatible with the MAX4178EUA?
Yes - both MAX4278EUA and MAX4178EUA share identical 8-pin µMAX packaging and pinout (IN, GND, OUT, VCC, VEE, and N.C. pins in same positions). They differ only in internal gain configuration: MAX4178EUA is unity-gain (+1), while MAX4278EUA is +2-gain. Direct substitution changes system gain but preserves mechanical fit.
MAX4278EUA Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 8-TSSOP, 8-MSOP (0.118", 3.00mm Width)
- 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:
- 100 mA
- Voltage - Supply Span (Min):
- -
- Voltage - Supply Span (Max):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 8-uMAX/uSOP
MAX4278EUA FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4278EUA through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4278EUA 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 MAX4278EUA reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4278EUA are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4278EUA is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4278EUA?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4278EUA transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4278EUA?
MAX4278EUA orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4278EUA 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 MAX4278EUA?
For technical support, including MAX4278EUA datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4278EUA requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4278EUA is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4278EUA 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 MAX4278EUA meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4278EUA?
All MAX4278EUA units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4278EUA, 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 MAX4278EUA part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4278EUA:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX4278EUA 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…

