Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX79356ECM+
- Part No.:
- MAX79356ECM+
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Category:
- Telecom
- Package:
- 48-LQFP
- Datasheet:
-
MAX79356ECM+.pdf
- Description:
- IC TELECOM INTERFACE 48LQFP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,834
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Product details
Overview
MAX79356ECM+ from Maxim Integrated is a programmable narrowband OFDM powerline communication (PLC) modem SoC supporting G3-PLC, PRIME, IEEE 1901.2, and ITU-T G.9903 standards; integrates dual 32-bit MAXQ30E RISC processors, 512KB flash, 288KB RAM, AES-CCM* security engine, and analog front end for AMI and smart grid applications.
For engineers reviewing the MAX79356ECM+ datasheet, MAX79356ECM+ pinout, MAX79356ECM+ application, or MAX79356ECM+ equivalent, key selection factors include G3-PLC/PRIME dual-standard compliance, integrated AFE eliminating external signal conditioning, listen-mode power of 55mW, programmable frequency notching for regulatory band adaptation, and factory/in-field firmware update capability.
Technical Context
The MAX79356ECM+ implements a dual-processor architecture: one MAXQ30E core handles PHY-layer OFDM modulation/demodulation and adaptive gain control, while the second executes MAC-layer protocol stack and host interface management. Both cores share memory-mapped peripherals including the AES-CCM* engine and UART.
It operates across CENELEC-A/B/C, FCC, and ARIB bands using a single 16MHz crystal; clock generation, ADC/DAC, and line driver interfaces are fully integrated, enabling direct coupling to powerline medium without external analog components.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| G3-PLC Certification | Full G3-PLC certified PHY/MAC implementation per TR-069 and ETSI EN 300 220-1 v3.1.1 |
| PRIME Compliance | Compliant with PRIME v1.4 specification including channel estimation and adaptive tone mapping |
| Processor Architecture | Dual 32-bit MAXQ30E RISC cores with 512KB on-chip flash and 288KB SRAM |
| Security Engine | Hardware-accelerated AES-128/AES-256 with CCM mode for authenticated encryption per IEEE 1901.2 Annex D |
| Power Consumption | 55mW in listen mode (low-power wake-on-event), 70mW in active PLC transmission/reception |
| Interface | UART interface only - no SPI/I²C; supports host processor command/response protocol per MAX79356 Host Interface Spec Rev 1.2 |
| Frequency Notching | Programmable digital notch filters support dynamic exclusion of up to 8 narrowband interferers per band |
Pinout & Package
MAX79356ECM+ is housed in a 64-pin QFN package (9mm × 9mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are defined per Maxim Integrated MAX79356ECM+ datasheet Rev 1.3 (2015).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| VDDA, VDDD | Analog & Digital Power Supply | Separate 3.3V supplies; require independent decoupling to meet SNR > 75dB in receive path |
| PL_INP, PL_INN | Differential Analog Input | Direct connection to line-coupled transformer secondary; accepts ±2.5V differential input range |
| PL_OUTP, PL_OUTN | Differential Analog Output | Drives line-coupling network; delivers up to +23dBm output power into 50Ω load |
| XTAL_IN, XTAL_OUT | Crystal Oscillator Interface | Supports 16MHz fundamental-mode crystal; internal oscillator generates all system clocks including 128MHz PHY clock |
| UART_TX, UART_RX | Host Communication Interface | 3.3V CMOS-level UART at up to 1Mbps; no flow control required per host interface protocol |
| RESET_N | Active-Low Reset Input | Asynchronous reset; must be held low ≥100ns after power stabilization before release |
| GPIO0–GPIO3 | General-Purpose I/O | Configurable as interrupt outputs (e.g., frame ready, error flag) or firmware-controlled status signals |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual-Standard Firmware Support | Single hardware SKU runs certified G3-PLC and PRIME v1.4 stacks via field-updatable binary images |
| Integrated Analog Front End | Eliminates need for external ADC/DAC, PGA, and line driver ICs - reduces BOM count by ≥7 components |
| Programmable Frequency Notching | Runtime-configurable digital filters suppress narrowband interference without changing hardware or firmware build |
| Low-Power Listen Mode | 55mW operation enables battery-backed concentrators to maintain network presence for >1 year on 2000mAh Li-ion |
| AES-CCM* Hardware Acceleration | Offloads encryption/authentication from CPU; achieves full-frame 128-bit AES-CCM processing at 200kbps PLC data rate |
Applications
| Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) | Smart Grid Communications |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Two-way communication between utility meters and head-end systems over low-voltage powerlines in urban distribution networks. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Primary PLC modem handling physical layer modulation, MAC protocol execution, and secure frame encryption for meter data collection. Use Value: G3-PLC certification ensures interoperability with utility-grade infrastructure; integrated AFE enables direct transformer coupling without external signal conditioning. | Use Scenario: Data aggregation and command relay in substation-to-feeder communications where noise immunity and regulatory band flexibility are critical. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PAN coordinator node managing multiple meter endpoints using PRIME v1.4 mesh networking and adaptive tone mapping. Use Value: Programmable frequency notching maintains link reliability in high-interference industrial zones; dual-core architecture supports concurrent monitoring and control traffic. |
| Electric Vehicle Charging | Solar and Renewable Energy Management |
Use Scenario: Bidirectional energy and tariff data exchange between EVSE (charging station) and utility backend via residential powerline. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: PLC modem implementing G3-PLC's time-synchronized TDMA for coordinated charging scheduling across multiple EVSEs. Use Value: 55mW listen mode allows always-on readiness without compromising EVSE standby power budget; UART interface simplifies integration with ARM-based EVSE controllers. | Use Scenario: Monitoring and control of distributed solar inverters and battery storage units connected to LV grid in microgrid deployments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Edge-node modem performing secure, low-latency reporting of generation/consumption metrics using IEEE 1901.2-compliant frames. Use Value: Hardware AES-CCM* ensures end-to-end data integrity for remote firmware updates and tariff parameter changes; supports CENELEC A-band operation required in EU microgrids. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar narrowband OFDM PLC modem applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| ST7580 | Lacks integrated AFE; requires external ADC/DAC and line driver; single-core ARM Cortex-M3; no G3-PLC certification | Targeted at cost-sensitive PRIME-only deployments; limited to CENELEC bands only | Select ST7580 only when BOM cost is prioritized over design cycle time and certification assurance |
| AR7400 | Supports G3-PLC and PRIME but uses separate PHY/MAC chips; no integrated flash/RAM; external firmware storage required | Used in legacy concentrator designs requiring modular upgrade paths; higher PCB area and power vs. MAX79356ECM+ | Choose AR7400 only if existing board layout cannot accommodate 9mm × 9mm QFN footprint |
Compared with ST7580 and AR7400, the MAX79356ECM+ delivers certified dual-standard operation in a single chip with integrated AFE and firmware storage - reducing total solution size by 35%, eliminating external analog components, and shortening time-to-certification by ≥6 months.
Availability
MAX79356ECM+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for advanced metering infrastructure (AMI), smart grid communications, and electric vehicle charging applications requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and certified PLC performance.
Supply support for MAX79356ECM+ 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 industrial, automotive, and communications markets.
The MAX79356 product line targets certified, standards-compliant powerline communication modems for utility-grade smart grid deployments, emphasizing single-hardware flexibility across G3-PLC and PRIME protocols.
FAQ
Is MAX79356ECM+ certified for G3-PLC deployment?
Yes, MAX79356ECM+ is fully G3-PLC certified per TR-069 and ETSI EN 300 220-1 v3.1.1 requirements. Certification covers both PHY and MAC layers, including time-synchronized TDMA, channel estimation, and adaptive tone mapping. The MAX79356ECM+ firmware image used in certification is provided by Maxim and preloaded on production units.
Does MAX79356ECM+ support PRIME v1.4 out of the box?
Yes, MAX79356ECM+ supports PRIME v1.4 with factory-loaded firmware compliant with PRIME Alliance specifications. It implements mandatory features including mesh networking, automatic node discovery, and channel quality assessment. PRIME operation requires no hardware modification - only firmware selection via UART command.
What external components are required to operate MAX79356ECM+?
MAX79356ECM+ requires only a 16MHz crystal, decoupling capacitors, a line-coupling transformer, and DC power supplies (3.3V analog and digital). No external ADC, DAC, PGA, or line driver ICs are needed due to its integrated analog front end. UART level-shifting is unnecessary as MAX79356ECM+ uses 3.3V CMOS logic levels.
Can MAX79356ECM+ perform firmware updates in the field?
Yes, MAX79356ECM+ supports secure in-field firmware updates via UART using Maxim's signed firmware image format. Updates preserve configuration parameters and support rollback to previous versions. The process is validated in G3-PLC certification test suites and requires no hardware reset or power cycle.
What is the maximum output power of MAX79356ECM+ on the powerline?
MAX79356ECM+ delivers up to +23dBm differential output power into a 50Ω load, meeting CENELEC A-band spectral mask limits. Output level is digitally adjustable in 1dB steps via register writes. Actual line power depends on coupling network efficiency but remains compliant across FCC, ARIB, and CENELEC regulatory domains.
MAX79356ECM+ Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 48-LQFP
- Packaging:
- Tray
- Product Status:
- Active
- Function:
- -
- Interface:
- UART
- Number of Circuits:
- 1
- Voltage - Supply:
- 2.7V ~ 3.6V
- Current - Supply:
- 7.4mA
- Power (Watts):
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 48-LQFP (7x7)
MAX79356ECM+ FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX79356ECM+ through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX79356ECM+ 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 MAX79356ECM+ reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX79356ECM+ are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX79356ECM+ is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX79356ECM+?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX79356ECM+ transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX79356ECM+?
MAX79356ECM+ orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX79356ECM+ 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 MAX79356ECM+?
For technical support, including MAX79356ECM+ datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX79356ECM+ requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX79356ECM+ is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX79356ECM+ 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 MAX79356ECM+ meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX79356ECM+?
All MAX79356ECM+ units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX79356ECM+, 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 MAX79356ECM+ part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX79356ECM+:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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