Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9259GTN/V+

Overview

MAX9259GTN/V+ from Maxim Integrated is a gigabit multimedia serializer IC for automotive serial video links, supporting up to 3.125Gbps over STP cable, 18-/24-bit RGB video up to XGA (1280×768), embedded I²S audio up to 192kHz/32-bit, and full-duplex UART control channel (100kbps–1Mbps). It operates from 1.8V core and 1.8V–3.3V I/O supplies in -40°C to +105°C.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9259GTN/V+ datasheet, MAX9259GTN/V+ pinout, MAX9259GTN/V+ application, or MAX9259GTN/V+ equivalent, this page delivers verified electrical specs, automotive-grade ESD protection (±10kV contact), preemphasis/deemphasis tuning for 15m cable reach, spread-spectrum EMI reduction, and AEC-Q100 qualification - all critical for infotainment and camera link design.

Technical Context

The MAX9259GTN/V+ implements a CML differential serializer with programmable preemphasis (0x00–0x0F) and PLL-based clock recovery. Its parallel interface accepts 24- or 32-bit video data synchronized to PCLKIN (6.25–104MHz), while its reverse control channel uses differential IN+/IN− inputs on the paired MAX9260 to enable bidirectional UART/I²C bridging.

It integrates line-fault monitoring (LMN0/LMN1), interrupt signaling (INT), and spread-spectrum enable (SSEN) with latch-on-power-up behavior. The device supports autostart (AUTOS), edge-select (ES), and bus-width select (BWS) configuration pins, enabling flexible system initialization without firmware overhead.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9259GTN/V+ is housed in a 56-pin TQFN package (8mm × 8mm × 0.75mm) with exposed pad (EP), thermally and electrically connected to AGND/GND. Pin functions are validated per Maxim's official datasheet Rev 4 (10/14).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX9275GTN/V+, the MAX9259GTN/V+ offers lower power and simpler configuration for XGA-class displays, while DS90UB953TRGCRQ1 demands full protocol revalidation but provides greater flexibility in multi-sensor timing alignment.

Availability

MAX9259GTN/V+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution automotive navigation, rear-seat infotainment, and megapixel camera systems requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long product lifecycles.

Supply support for MAX9259GTN/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 MAX9259GTN/V+ belongs to Maxim's Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link family, engineered specifically for robust, low-EMI video transport in automotive safety-critical and infotainment systems - emphasizing AEC-Q100 compliance, cable diagnostics, and seamless integration with display and camera ECUs.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported cable length for MAX9259GTN/V+ at full 3.125Gbps data rate?

The MAX9259GTN/V+ supports up to 15m of shielded twisted-pair (STP) cable at 3.125Gbps when preemphasis is configured to 3.3dB and equalization is optimized per Tables 11–12 in the datasheet. Performance is validated at BER < 10⁻⁹; shorter lengths (<10m) achieve BER < 10⁻¹² with optimal PE/EQ settings. Cable quality, termination, and connector shielding directly impact achievable length.

Does MAX9259GTN/V+ require an external crystal or can it use the incoming PCLKIN as the sole timing reference?

The MAX9259GTN/V+ uses PCLKIN exclusively as its timing reference - no external crystal is needed. The internal PLL locks to PCLKIN to generate the high-speed serial bit clock. PCLKIN must meet specified jitter (≤800ps P-P at 3.125Gbps) and duty cycle (35–65%) requirements. Stable, low-jitter pixel clock generation upstream is essential for reliable link lock.

How does the control channel in MAX9259GTN/V+ operate when the host microcontroller resides on the deserializer side (MAX9260)?

When the host microcontroller is on the MAX9260 side (CDS = high), the MAX9259GTN/V+ acts as a transparent UART/I²C bridge: RX/SDA and TX/SCL pins route commands from the host to the remote side via the differential control channel. The MAX9259GTN/V+ forwards I²C writes to MAX9260's internal registers or relays them to downstream peripherals - no local processing is required.

Can MAX9259GTN/V+ drive both 24-bit and 32-bit parallel input buses, and how is the mode selected?

Yes, the MAX9259GTN/V+ supports both modes. BWS pin selects bus width: BWS = low enables 24-bit mode (DIN0–DIN20 active); BWS = high enables 32-bit mode (DIN0–DIN28 active). In 24-bit mode, DIN21–DIN28 are unused; in 32-bit mode, they carry auxiliary data such as metadata or touch coordinates. Mode selection is static and latched at power-up or wake-from-PWDN.

What thermal considerations apply to MAX9259GTN/V+ in the 56-pin TQFN package?

The MAX9259GTN/V+ in 56-pin TQFN has θ_JA = 21°C/W and θ_JC = 1°C/W (JEDEC JESD51-7, 4-layer board). To maintain junction temperature ≤150°C, the exposed pad (EP) must be soldered to a minimum 200mm² copper pour connected to AGND/GND. At 135mA worst-case supply current and 3.3V IOVDD, power dissipation reaches ~3.8W - requiring ≥4cm² thermal pad area and optional airflow for sustained 104MHz operation.