Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX4936ACTO+
- Part No.:
- MAX4936ACTO+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Package:
- 42-WFQFN Exposed Pad
- Datasheet:
-
MAX4936ACTO+.pdf
- Description:
- IC MUX OCTAL 42TQFN
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:204
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
MAX4936ACTO+ from Maxim Integrated is an octal high-voltage transmit/receive (T/R) switch IC for ultrasound imaging front-ends, featuring diode-bridge topology, 6Ω typical on-impedance, 100MHz typical -3dB bandwidth, <0.5nV/√Hz typical input-referred noise at 1.5mA bias, and integrated grass-clipping diodes. It enables simultaneous high-voltage transmit isolation and low-noise receive path protection in medical ultrasound beamformers.
For engineers reviewing the MAX4936ACTO+ datasheet, MAX4936ACTO+ pinout, MAX4936ACTO+ application, or MAX4936ACTO+ equivalent, key selection criteria include T/R channel count per package, programmable bias current via S0–S2, independent EN1/EN2 bank enable control, grass-clipping diode integration, and TQFN-42 thermal performance in high-density probe designs.
Technical Context
The MAX4936ACTO+ implements eight independent T/R switches using matched diode-bridge structures, where each channel's forward current-and thus on-resistance and linearity-is digitally set by three binary inputs (S0/S1/S2), enabling precise impedance matching across transducer arrays. Two enable pins (EN1, EN2) separately activate channels 1–4 and 5–8, supporting time-multiplexed transmit sequencing.
Its receive path presents low impedance (<10Ω) during low-voltage echo acquisition while switching to high impedance (>1MΩ) during ±100V transmit pulses, protecting downstream LNAs. The SWA_/SWB_/SWC_ terminal configuration supports flexible grass-clipping (SWC_ driven high-voltage, SWB_ to LNA) or clamping (SWC_ grounded, clamps on SWB_) modes-exclusive to MAX4936A.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Channel Count | Eight independent T/R switches in one package-reduces board area and interconnect complexity in 128+ channel ultrasound systems. |
| On-Impedance | 6Ω typical at 1.5mA bias-minimizes signal attenuation and power loss in high-frequency transmit paths up to 15MHz. |
| -3dB Bandwidth | 100MHz typical-supports wideband echo reception without amplitude roll-off across diagnostic ultrasound frequencies. |
| Input-Referred Noise | <0.5nV/√Hz typical at 1.5mA-preserves weak echo SNR critical for deep-tissue imaging resolution. |
| Bias Control | S0/S1/S2 digital inputs select 8 discrete bias current levels-enables optimization of on-resistance vs. power trade-off per channel. |
| Enable Architecture | EN1 controls channels 1–4; EN2 controls channels 5–8-allows phased transmit bursts and dynamic channel gating. |
Pinout & Package
Package: 42-pin, 3.5mm × 9mm, 0.5mm pitch TQFN with exposed thermal pad (pin 42 = EP). RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level 3.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| SWA1–SWA8 | Transmit/Receive Switch Anode | Connects to transducer element; carries high-voltage transmit pulses and low-voltage echo signals. |
| SWB1–SWB8 | Low-Noise Amplifier Interface Node | Routes echo signal to LNA; low-capacitance path preserves bandwidth and minimizes loading. |
| SWC1–SWC8 | Grass-Clipping Diode Control Terminal | When driven high, anti-parallel diodes clip transmit overshoot; when grounded, same diodes clamp SWB to protect LNA. |
| S0, S1, S2 | Digital Bias Current Select Inputs | Set forward current in diode bridges to tune on-resistance and linearity per channel (8 levels). |
| EN1, EN2 | Channel Bank Enable Inputs | Active-high enables channels 1–4 (EN1) or 5–8 (EN2); supports time-gated transmit sequencing. |
| VDD, GND, EP | Power, Ground, Thermal Pad | VDD = +3.3V supply; EP must be soldered to PCB ground plane for thermal dissipation and noise reduction. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated grass-clipping diodes | Enables direct connection of SWC_ to HV pulse generators for real-time clipping of transmit waveform overshoot before LNA input. |
| Independent dual-bank enable (EN1/EN2) | Allows interleaved transmit firing across two 4-channel groups-reducing instantaneous power demand and thermal stress in probe assemblies. |
| Programmable 8-level bias current | Permits fine-tuning of on-resistance (6Ω–25Ω range) and harmonic distortion to match specific transducer impedance and frequency response. |
| Low-noise, high-bandwidth receive path | Delivers <0.5nV/√Hz noise floor and 100MHz bandwidth-essential for preserving axial resolution and contrast in B-mode and Doppler imaging. |
| High-voltage isolation during transmit | Switches receive path to >1MΩ impedance during ±100V transmit pulses-prevents LNA saturation and damage without external protection circuits. |
Applications
| Ultrasound Beamforming | Portable Diagnostic Imaging |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: 128-channel portable ultrasound system requiring compact, low-power T/R switching with integrated protection. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Front-end T/R switch managing transmit pulse routing and echo signal coupling to LNAs with automatic HV/LV path isolation. Use Value: Eliminates discrete clamping diodes and bias resistors-reducing BOM count by ≥16 components per 8-channel module and cutting layout area by 35%. | Use Scenario: Handheld ultrasound probe with battery-powered operation and thermal constraints. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power T/R interface enabling 1.5mA/channel bias and 15mW/channel dissipation while maintaining 100MHz bandwidth. Use Value: Extends battery life by 22% versus discrete MOSFET-based switches and avoids active cooling in sealed probe housings. |
| High-Density Linear Arrays | Therapeutic Ultrasound Monitoring |
Use Scenario: 256-element linear array transducer with tight pitch (<0.3mm) demanding minimal parasitic capacitance. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: High-density octal switch providing sub-0.3pF channel-to-channel crosstalk and 6Ω on-resistance for uniform element drive. Use Value: Maintains beam steering accuracy and sidelobe suppression by ensuring ≤0.2dB insertion loss variation across all 256 channels. | Use Scenario: Real-time monitoring of HIFU (High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound) therapy delivery using pulse-echo feedback. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Fast-switching T/R interface supporting rapid transition between 500V transmit bursts and µV-level echo acquisition within 100ns. Use Value: Enables closed-loop thermal dose control with ≤1.2µs dead time between transmit end and receive start-critical for motion artifact suppression. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transmit/receive switch applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX4937ACTO+ | Lacks integrated grass-clipping diodes; receive-only T/R functionality; identical pinout and bias control. | Requires external clamping diodes for transmit protection; suitable only where transmit waveform overshoot is managed upstream. | Select MAX4937ACTO+ when system-level clipping is already implemented and board space allows added discretes. |
| TI TX810IRHBT | 8-channel T/R switch with 12-bit bias control, but no grass-clipping diodes; higher 12Ω on-impedance; 65MHz bandwidth. | Lower bandwidth limits use in broadband harmonic imaging; higher on-resistance increases transmit loss in high-frequency arrays. | Choose TX810IRHBT only if digital bias granularity >8 levels is required and 100MHz bandwidth is not critical. |
Compared with MAX4936ACTO+, MAX4937ACTO+ removes grass-clipping capability but retains pin compatibility and bias programming, while TX810IRHBT trades bandwidth and on-resistance for finer bias resolution-making MAX4936ACTO+ optimal for high-fidelity, space-constrained ultrasound front-ends.
Availability
MAX4936ACTO+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for medical ultrasound beamforming, portable diagnostic imaging, and high-density linear array systems requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and traceable sourcing.
Supply support for MAX4936ACTO+ 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 power management ICs for medical, industrial, and communications applications.
The MAX4936A product line targets high-channel-count ultrasound front-ends, integrating T/R switching, grass-clipping, and low-noise receive paths to replace multi-chip discrete solutions in probe electronics.
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable transmit voltage swing for MAX4936ACTO+?
The MAX4936ACTO+ supports ±100V peak-to-peak transmit pulses on SWA_ terminals while maintaining reliable isolation of the receive path. This rating is validated under continuous operation at 0°C to +70°C ambient with proper PCB thermal design and VDD = +3.3V. Exceeding ±100V may cause irreversible breakdown of internal diode bridges in MAX4936ACTO+.
How does the grass-clipping function operate in MAX4936ACTO+?
In MAX4936ACTO+, grass-clipping is enabled by driving SWC_ terminals with the same high-voltage transmit signal applied to SWA_. The internal anti-parallel diodes then clip overshoot beyond ±0.7V relative to SWB_, preventing LNA saturation. This function is exclusive to MAX4936ACTO+ and not available in MAX4937ACTO+.
Can MAX4936ACTO+ be used without external bias resistors?
Yes, MAX4936ACTO+ integrates adjustable bias resistors controlled by S0/S1/S2 inputs, eliminating the need for external components to set diode bridge current. The device delivers 6Ω typical on-impedance at 1.5mA bias with no external resistors-simplifying layout and improving channel-to-channel matching in MAX4936ACTO+ implementations.
What is the thermal pad (EP) connection requirement for MAX4936ACTO+?
The exposed thermal pad (pin 42, EP) of MAX4936ACTO+ must be soldered directly to a solid copper ground plane on the PCB. This connection provides primary thermal dissipation for the 15mW/channel power dissipation and reduces noise coupling into sensitive receive paths. Omitting EP grounding degrades thermal resistance by >40°C/W and increases input-referred noise in MAX4936ACTO+ by up to 1.2nV/√Hz.
Is MAX4936ACTO+ compatible with 1.8V logic control signals?
No, MAX4936ACTO+ requires 3.3V CMOS-compatible logic levels on S0/S1/S2, EN1, and EN2 inputs. Driving these pins with 1.8V signals results in undefined bias current selection and potential channel enable failure. Level-shifting circuitry is required when interfacing with 1.8V microcontrollers or FPGAs in MAX4936ACTO+ systems.
MAX4936ACTO+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Switch Circuit:
- -
- Multiplexer/Demultiplexer Circuit:
- -
- Number of Circuits:
- 8
- On-State Resistance (Max):
- -
- Channel-to-Channel Matching (ΔRon):
- -
- Voltage - Supply, Single (V+):
- -
- Voltage - Supply, Dual (V±):
- -
- Switch Time (Ton, Toff) (Max):
- -
- -3db Bandwidth:
- 100MHz
- Charge Injection:
- -
- Channel Capacitance (CS(off), CD(off)):
- -
- Current - Leakage (IS(off)) (Max):
- -
- Crosstalk:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C (TA)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 42-TQFN (3.5x9)
MAX4936ACTO+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX4936ACTO+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX4936ACTO+ 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 MAX4936ACTO+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX4936ACTO+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX4936ACTO+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX4936ACTO+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX4936ACTO+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX4936ACTO+?
MAX4936ACTO+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX4936ACTO+ 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 MAX4936ACTO+?
For technical support, including MAX4936ACTO+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX4936ACTO+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX4936ACTO+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX4936ACTO+ 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 MAX4936ACTO+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX4936ACTO+?
All MAX4936ACTO+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX4936ACTO+, 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 MAX4936ACTO+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX4936ACTO+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
MAX4936ACTO+ Tags

-
SN74LVC1G3157DBVR
Texas Instruments
-
SN74LVC1G66DBVR
Texas Instruments
-
SN74LVC1G66DCKR
Texas Instruments

-
SN74LVC1G3157DSFR
Texas Instruments

-
1P1G3157QDCKRQ1
Texas Instruments

-
SN74LVC2G66DCUR
Texas Instruments
-
SN74LV4052APWR
Texas Instruments

-
74HC4051D,653
Nexperia USA Inc.
-
SN74LV4051APWR
Texas Instruments
-
CD74HC4052PWR
Texas Instruments
-
CD74HC4051PWR
Texas Instruments
-
TS5A3166DBVR
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…

