Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9258AGCM/V+

Overview

MAX9258AGCM/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a fully programmable deserializer IC for automotive and industrial camera links, pairing with MAX9257A serializer to form a bidirectional LVDS serial link. It supports 10–18-bit parallel data width, pixel clock range of 5MHz–70MHz, up to 840Mbps serial data rate, and eliminates need for external reference clock via embedded clock recovery. Used in rear-view camera systems requiring robust ESD protection and AC-coupled cabling.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9258AGCM/V+ datasheet, MAX9258AGCM/V+ pinout, MAX9258AGCM/V+ application, or MAX9258AGCM/V+ equivalent, key selection criteria include its spread-spectrum programmability, integrated UART/I²C control channel over same differential pair, DC-balanced coding for AC coupling, ±10kV ISO 10605 ESD rating on LVDS I/O, and operation across –40°C to +105°C.

Technical Context

The MAX9258AGCM/V+ implements dual PLL architecture - one for serial-data clock recovery (SPLL) and another for spread-spectrum generation (SPLL), both supporting programmable edge alignment for HSYNC/VSYNC. Its control channel operates during video blanking intervals using the same SDI+/SDI− pair, enabling remote configuration of the serializer or peripheral camera without CAN/LIN.

It features automatic resynchronization after loss of lock, programmable preemphasis (0–100%) for STP cable drive up to 20m, and on-chip PRBS generator/checker for integrity testing. The device supports parity protection on both video and control channels and includes an activity detector with configurable offset thresholds.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX9258AGCM/V+ is packaged in a 40-pin TQFN (5mm × 5mm) with exposed pad, optimized for thermal performance in space-constrained camera modules.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX9275A and DS90UB954-Q1, the MAX9258AGCM/V+ uniquely combines clock recovery, UART/I²C control channel reuse, and AC-coupling support in a compact 40-pin TQFN - making it optimal for space-constrained, single-camera ADAS nodes where BOM simplicity and thermal efficiency are critical.

Availability

MAX9258AGCM/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for automotive camera modules, industrial vision systems, and in-vehicle display interfaces requiring stable component supply, AEC-Q100-compliant operation, and long-term production continuity.

Supply support for MAX9258AGCM/V+ 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.

The MAX9258AGCM/V+ belongs to Maxim's GMSL-family-equivalent serializer/deserializer product line, engineered specifically for high-reliability, low-latency video transport in safety-critical automotive camera applications.

FAQ

Does MAX9258AGCM/V+ require an external reference clock?

No, the MAX9258AGCM/V+ does not require an external reference clock. It implements embedded clock recovery from the incoming LVDS serial data stream (SDI+/SDI−), eliminating the need for a crystal oscillator or clock distribution network. This feature simplifies PCB layout, reduces component count, and improves system-level EMI performance - all confirmed in the MAX9257A/MAX9258A datasheet Rev 1 section "General Description" and AC Electrical Characteristics.

What is the maximum supported cable length for MAX9258AGCM/V+ at 840Mbps?

The MAX9258AGCM/V+ achieves bit error rates below 10⁻⁹ for STP cables up to 20 meters at 840Mbps when using 100% preemphasis and 4% spread spectrum, as verified in Figure toc10 and toc11 of the MAX9257A/MAX9258A datasheet. For lengths beyond 10m, preemphasis and spread spectrum must be enabled to maintain signal integrity and meet automotive EMC requirements.

Can MAX9258AGCM/V+ interface directly with a 1.8V FPGA I/O bank?

Yes, the MAX9258AGCM/V+ supports 1.8V to 3.3V I/O voltage levels via its VCCOUT and VCCIO supplies. When VCCOUT = 1.8V, DOUT[0:15], PCLK_OUT, HSYNC_OUT, and VSYNC_OUT operate at 1.8V LVCMOS levels with VOL ≤ 0.3V and VOH ≥ VCCOUT − 0.35V - meeting standard FPGA I/O thresholds. This is specified in the MAX9258A DC Electrical Characteristics table on page 7 of the datasheet.

How does the control channel function in MAX9258AGCM/V+ without interfering with video data?

The control channel in MAX9258AGCM/V+ operates exclusively during horizontal and vertical video blanking intervals, sharing the same SDI+/SDI− differential pair used for video. Bidirectional UART/I²C commands are time-multiplexed into unused serial-word slots, ensuring zero impact on active video transmission. This behavior is documented in the "General Description" and "Control Channel Transceiver" sections of the MAX9257A/MAX9258A datasheet.

Is MAX9258AGCM/V+ qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the MAX9258AGCM/V+ is specified for operation from –40°C to +105°C and features ±10kV contact ESD protection per ISO 10605 - meeting core requirements for automotive camera modules. While not explicitly labeled "AEC-Q100 Grade 2" in this datasheet revision, its thermal, ESD, and supply specifications align with AEC-Q100 stress test conditions, and Maxim's automotive-grade variants (e.g., MAX9258A/V+) are certified accordingly.