Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9248ETM+

Overview

MAX9248ETM+ from Maxim Integrated is a 27-bit DC-balanced LVDS deserializer IC that converts high-speed serial video/control data into 18-bit RGB video and 9-bit control parallel outputs. It operates at 5MHz–42MHz parallel clock frequency, features ±2% or ±4% programmable spread-spectrum output for EMI reduction, and interfaces with MAX9247 serializer in automotive display systems.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9248ETM+ datasheet, MAX9248ETM+ pinout, MAX9248ETM+ application, or MAX9248ETM+ equivalent, this page delivers verified technical context, real-world timing behavior, latch-edge configuration options, spread-spectrum modulation impact on system-level EMI, and validated alternatives for in-vehicle infotainment video links.

Technical Context

The MAX9248ETM+ implements a dual-phase deserialization architecture: video data (RGB_OUT[17:0]) is latched during DE_OUT high periods, while control data (CNTL_OUT[8:0]) is recovered during DE_OUT low periods-leveraging video blanking intervals to reduce required serial bandwidth. Its proprietary DC-balanced encoding enables AC-coupling across long cables without common-mode drift.

It integrates two PLLs: a reference-lock PLL synchronizing to REFCLK (±2% tolerance), and a spread-spectrum PLL (SSPLL) modulating PCLK_OUT and data outputs at 32kHz base rate (scaling linearly with input clock). Input-to-output delay ranges from (4.5t_T + 8.0)ns to (36t_T + 16)ns due to SSPLL variation, with lock time up to 33,600 REFCLK cycles.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9248ETM+ is housed in a 48-lead LQFP package (7mm × 7mm, 0.5mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad. Pin functions are electrically and physically distinct between MAX9248 and MAX9250 variants; this part uses SS (not OUTEN) and lacks output enable functionality.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar LVDS deserializer applications.

Compared with MAX9250ETM+, MAX9248ETM+ prioritizes EMI suppression over output flexibility; versus DS90UB928QSQ, it offers lower latency, smaller footprint, and zero-config operation-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, high-volume automotive display links where deterministic timing and proven EMC performance are mandatory.

Availability

MAX9248ETM+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for navigation system displays, in-vehicle entertainment systems, and automotive LCD displays requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX9248ETM+ 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 automotive, industrial, and communications markets-with emphasis on high-reliability, AEC-Q100-qualified components.

The MAX9248ETM+ belongs to Maxim's automotive serial-link portfolio, engineered specifically for noise-immune, low-latency video transport in safety-critical display systems-balancing EMI resilience, timing determinism, and seamless interoperability with MAX9247 serializer.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported cable length for MAX9248ETM+ at 42MHz?

At 42MHz parallel clock frequency, MAX9248ETM+ supports up to 12 meters of CAT5 STP cable with bit-error rate < 10⁻¹², as verified in Maxim's typical operating characteristics (Figure TOC05). Performance assumes proper AC-coupling with 0.1µF capacitors and 100Ω differential termination. Longer runs require reduced data rates or enhanced shielding.

Does MAX9248ETM+ require external configuration registers or I²C programming?

No, MAX9248ETM+ is a pin-strapped, fixed-function deserializer. All key behaviors-including spread-spectrum selection (SS pin), latch edge (R/F), frequency range (RNG[1:0]), and power-down (PWRDWN)-are controlled by dedicated LVTTL/LVCMOS inputs. No firmware, I²C, or SPI interface is needed, ensuring deterministic startup and eliminating configuration failure modes.

How does the LOCK pin behave during power-up and loss-of-signal conditions?

During power-up with PWRDWN high, LOCK starts high-impedance, then drives high during REFCLK lock (≤33,600 cycles), and finally goes low only after detecting a valid transition word on the serial stream. During loss-of-signal, LOCK returns high after 222 PCLK_OUT cycles without transition word-signaling invalid data and triggering system-level fault recovery without software polling.

Can MAX9248ETM+ interface directly with 1.8V FPGA I/O banks?

Yes. MAX9248ETM+ supports VCCO from 1.8V to 3.3V, and its RGB_OUT[17:0], CNTL_OUT[8:0], PCLK_OUT, and DE_OUT outputs are fully compliant with 1.8V LVTTL/LVCMOS logic levels when VCCO = 1.8V. VOH/VOL specifications guarantee 0.1V–0.35V low-level and VCCO–0.4V high-level margins-meeting Xilinx and Intel FPGA I/O voltage thresholds.

What is the purpose of the RNG[1:0] pins on MAX9248ETM+?

RNG[1:0] selects both the operating frequency range (5–10MHz, 10–20MHz, or 20–42MHz) and corresponding output transition time (slow/fast). This dual function optimizes signal integrity: slower edges in low-frequency modes reduce EMI, while faster edges at 42MHz preserve timing margins. Incorrect RNG setting causes invalid lock or excessive jitter-must match the MAX9247 serializer's PCLK_IN frequency.