Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4278EUK
- Part No.:
- MAX4278EUK
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Instrumentation, Op Amps, Buffer Amps
- Package:
- SC-74A, SOT-753
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4278EUK.pdf
- Description:
- GAIN OF 2 CLOSED-LOOP BUFFER
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:282
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Product details
Overview
MAX4278EUK from Maxim Integrated is a +2 voltage-gain (6dB), ±5V dual-supply, high-speed closed-loop video buffer IC optimized for 75Ω video cable driving. It delivers 310MHz -3dB bandwidth, 1600V/µs slew rate, and 0.01°/0.04% differential phase/gain error - enabling broadcast-grade analog video routing in HD TV systems and medical imaging equipment.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4278EUK datasheet, MAX4278EUK pinout, MAX4278EUK application, or MAX4278EUK equivalent, this page provides verified technical context, real-world design meaning of key specs, SOT23-5 package layout, application-specific implementation guidance, and two validated alternative parts with functional trade-offs.
Technical Context
The MAX4278EUK implements a hybrid current-feedback/voltage-feedback architecture: its unique input stage retains high slew rate and low power while achieving low input offset voltage (0.5mV) and high PSRR (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, requiring no external gain-setting components. Its output drives 75Ω or 50Ω coaxial cables directly, supports short-circuit protection (150mA typical limit), and maintains stability with up to 100pF capacitive loads - critical for video distribution amplifier designs.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| -3dB Bandwidth | 310MHz - supports full NTSC/PAL/HD video signal integrity up to 1080i without attenuation. |
| Voltage Gain | +2 (6dB) - fixed internal gain ideal for back-terminated 75Ω video line drivers without external resistors. |
| Slew Rate | 1600V/µs - ensures <12ns settling time to 0.1%, preserving fast video edge transitions. |
| Differential Phase/Gain Error | 0.01° / 0.04% - meets broadcast video fidelity requirements for color accuracy in HDTV systems. |
| Supply Current | 8mA - enables low-power multi-channel video distribution without thermal derating in SOT23-5. |
| Input Offset Voltage | 0.5mV - minimizes DC error in precision video buffering and ADC preamp applications. |
| Output Short-Circuit Current | 150mA - allows safe driving of multiple parallel 75Ω loads (up to six ±2Vp-p loads at +25°C). |
Pinout & Package
SOT23-5 surface-mount package (5-pin, 1.6mm × 2.9mm footprint), rated for -40°C to +85°C operation. Pin 1 marked with dot; pin 1 = OUT, pin 2 = IN, pin 3 = GND, pin 4 = VCC (+5V), pin 5 = VEE (-5V).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 (OUT) | Amplifier Output | Drives 50Ω/75Ω transmission lines directly; requires no series termination when back-terminated. |
| 2 (IN) | Inverting Input | High-impedance node (1MΩ) accepting video baseband signals; referenced to ground via internal topology. |
| 3 (GND) | Analog Ground Reference | Single-point ground connection for noise-sensitive video signal path; must be isolated from digital ground. |
| 4 (VCC) | Positive Supply | +5V supply rail; bypassed with 0.1µF ceramic capacitor placed ≤2mm from pin per layout guidelines. |
| 5 (VEE) | Negative Supply | -5V supply rail; substrate tied to VEE per chip information - requires clean, low-impedance return path. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Hybrid Feedback Architecture | Combines current-feedback speed (1600V/µs) with voltage-feedback precision (0.5mV VOS, 90dB PSRR). |
| Fixed +2 Gain Configuration | Eliminates external feedback resistors - reduces board space and matching errors in video routing systems. |
| 75Ω Cable Drive Capability | Optimized output stage delivers ±2Vp-p into 75Ω loads with <0.04% differential gain error for broadcast compliance. |
| Capacitive Load Tolerance | Stable with up to 100pF load capacitance - supports PCB trace lengths and connector parasitics in compact layouts. |
| ESD Protection | 8000V HBM - protects against handling damage during SMT assembly and field service of video equipment. |
Applications
| Broadcast Video Routing | Medical Imaging Signal Chain |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Switching and distributing composite video signals across multiple monitors in surgical control rooms. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fixed-gain +2 buffer isolating source from multiple 75Ω coaxial cable runs while preserving color fidelity. Use Value: 0.01° differential phase error prevents hue shift; 310MHz bandwidth passes full HD luminance/chroma spectrum. |
Use Scenario: Driving analog outputs of ultrasound beamformers to display processors over 1–3m coaxial cables. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-current video buffer maintaining signal integrity through long cable runs with minimal group delay variation. Use Value: 150mA short-circuit current enables driving multiple downstream ADC inputs; low noise (5nV/√Hz) preserves SNR. |
| HD TV Production Equipment | Video Digitizer Preamp |
|
Use Scenario: Distribution amplifiers in live OB vans feeding simultaneous feeds to recording, monitoring, and transmission subsystems. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: +2 gain video driver delivering identical amplitude-matched signals to six parallel 75Ω loads. Use Value: Guaranteed 1.0% max gain error across temperature ensures consistent brightness between outputs; SOT23-5 saves board area in dense I/O modules. |
Use Scenario: Buffering analog video before 250Msps flash ADCs (e.g., MAX100) in digital oscilloscopes and test equipment. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-output-impedance driver interfacing high-Z video sources to 50Ω ADC inputs without signal loss. Use Value: 250MHz full-power bandwidth supports accurate digitization of fast video transients; 1300–1600V/µs slew rate avoids slew-induced distortion. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar video buffer applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4278ESA | 8-pin SO package; same electrical specs but larger footprint and higher thermal resistance (5.88mW/°C derating). | Preferred for prototyping or lower-frequency designs where SMT rework tolerance matters more than size. | Select when board space permits and thermal management via heatsinking or airflow is available. |
| THS3202D | Single-channel, +2 gain, 400MHz bandwidth, ±15V supply capable; higher quiescent current (12mA) and no integrated 75Ω drive optimization. | Better suited for wide-dynamic-range instrumentation; lacks broadcast-optimized differential error specs. | Choose only if wider supply range or higher bandwidth is required - not drop-in for broadcast video. |
Compared with MAX4278EUK, the MAX4278ESA offers identical performance in a larger SO package suitable for manual assembly, while the THS3202D trades broadcast-grade video fidelity for broader supply flexibility and higher bandwidth - making it less optimal for HD video routing where differential phase/gain error is critical.
Availability
MAX4278EUK is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for broadcast video routing, medical imaging signal chains, and HD TV production equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX4278EUK 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, medical, and communications applications - emphasizing low-noise, high-speed, and high-reliability performance.
The MAX4278EUK belongs to Maxim's high-speed video buffer product line, engineered specifically for broadcast-grade analog video signal integrity, low differential distortion, and robust 75Ω cable driving capability in space-constrained systems.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX4278EUK?
The MAX4278EUK is specified for operation from -40°C to +85°C. All electrical parameters are guaranteed over this full industrial temperature range, with 100% testing performed at +25°C and design validation ensuring performance compliance across extremes. This makes the MAX4278EUK suitable for deployment in broadcast trucks, medical imaging cabinets, and outdoor video enclosures where ambient temperatures fluctuate widely.
Does the MAX4278EUK require external gain-setting resistors?
No, the MAX4278EUK does not require external gain-setting resistors. It is internally configured for a fixed +2 voltage gain (6dB) using precision on-chip feedback resistors. This eliminates resistor matching errors, saves PCB area, and ensures consistent gain accuracy (±1.0% max with 100Ω load) across temperature and unit-to-unit variation - a key advantage in multi-channel video distribution systems.
Can the MAX4278EUK drive multiple 75Ω video cables simultaneously?
Yes, the MAX4278EUK can drive up to six parallel ±2Vp-p, 150Ω loads at +25°C, which translates directly to multiple back-terminated 75Ω coaxial cables. Its 150mA short-circuit output current and low output impedance enable this capability. For higher channel counts or elevated temperatures, derating is required - e.g., limiting output swing to ±1Vp-p doubles the number of supported loads under same conditions.
What is the significance of the 0.01° differential phase error in the MAX4278EUK?
The 0.01° differential phase error in the MAX4278EUK ensures minimal hue distortion in analog video signals - a critical parameter for broadcast compliance (e.g., SMPTE RP 168). This level of precision prevents visible color shifts during scene transitions and maintains chrominance timing alignment across the full video bandwidth, making the MAX4278EUK suitable for professional HD TV production and medical diagnostic displays where color fidelity is non-negotiable.
Is the MAX4278EUK compatible with single-supply operation?
No, the MAX4278EUK is designed exclusively for dual-supply operation at ±5V (VCC = +5V, VEE = -5V). Its input common-mode range and output swing are specified relative to this symmetric supply. Attempting single-supply use (e.g., 0V and +10V) violates absolute maximum ratings and will result in incorrect biasing, degraded distortion performance, and potential device damage. For single-supply video buffers, consider alternatives like the MAX4452 or THS3091.
MAX4278EUK Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- SC-74A, SOT-753
- Packaging:
- Bulk
- Product Status:
- Active
- Amplifier Type:
- Buffer, Current Feedback
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Output Type:
- Single-Ended
- Slew Rate:
- 1.6kV/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):
- 12 V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- SOT-23-5
MAX4278EUK FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4278EUK through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4278EUK 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 MAX4278EUK reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4278EUK are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4278EUK is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4278EUK?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4278EUK transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4278EUK?
MAX4278EUK orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4278EUK 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 MAX4278EUK?
For technical support, including MAX4278EUK datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4278EUK requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4278EUK is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4278EUK 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 MAX4278EUK meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4278EUK?
All MAX4278EUK units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4278EUK, 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 MAX4278EUK part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4278EUK:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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