Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9278AGTM/V+T

Overview

MAX9278AGTM/V+T from Maxim Integrated is a 3.12Gbps GMSL deserializer for automotive video links, receiving serialized video/audio/control over 50Ω coax or 100Ω STP cable and outputting deserialized LVDS data on three of four oLDI lanes. It supports 104MHz high-bandwidth mode (1920×720p/60Hz, 24-bit color), 32kHz–192kHz audio with up to 32-bit depth, and operates from -40°C to +105°C.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9278AGTM/V+T datasheet, MAX9278AGTM/V+T pinout, MAX9278AGTM/V+T application, or MAX9278AGTM/V+T equivalent, key selection criteria include coax/STP input compatibility, HDCP-free operation (vs. MAX9282A), embedded control channel (UART/I2C modes up to 1Mbps), programmable cable equalization, and LVDS spread-spectrum EMI reduction.

Technical Context

The MAX9278AGTM/V+T implements a CDR-based serial link receiver with 7x PLL architecture, supporting both 4-channel (8b10b) and 9b10b encoding schemes. Its reverse control channel operates in UART-to-UART, UART-to-I2C, or I2C-to-I2C modes with clock-stretch capability and high-immunity mode for noise rejection.

It integrates a line equalizer with programmable boost levels (up to 24dB), a built-in PRBS tester for BER validation, and color lookup tables for gamma correction. The device features two GPIO ports, one dedicated "Up/Down" GPI for touch-screen interrupt, and supports remote/local wake-up from sleep mode.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX9278AGTM/V+T is housed in a lead-free, 48-pin, 7mm × 7mm TQFN package with exposed thermal pad and 0.5mm pitch.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX9278AGT/V+, the MAX9278AGTM/V+T adds AEC-Q100 qualification and extended temperature range; compared with MAX9282AGTM/V+, it omits HDCP logic - simplifying firmware, reducing latency, and lowering system security certification burden.

Availability

MAX9278AGTM/V+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-resolution automotive navigation, rear-seat infotainment, and megapixel camera systems requiring stable component supply across multi-year vehicle production cycles.

Supply support for MAX9278AGTM/V+T 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 MAX9278A product line delivers GMSL deserializers optimized for high-bandwidth, low-latency, EMI-resilient video transport in automotive cockpit and ADAS systems - emphasizing coax/STP flexibility, functional safety readiness, and AEC-Q100 compliance.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the MAX9278AGTM/V+T in an automotive video system?

The MAX9278AGTM/V+T serves as a GMSL deserializer that receives high-speed serialized video, audio, and control data over coax or STP cable and converts it into parallel LVDS outputs (oLDI) for display or image processing. It handles timing synchronization (HS/VS/DE), embedded control channel communication, and cable equalization - all critical for robust in-vehicle video links. The MAX9278AGTM/V+T does not include HDCP, distinguishing it from the MAX9282A variant.

Does the MAX9278AGTM/V+T support both coaxial and shielded twisted-pair (STP) cable inputs?

Yes, the MAX9278AGTM/V+T natively supports both 50Ω coaxial cable (e.g., with FAKRA connectors) and 100Ω shielded twisted-pair inputs. Cable type is auto-detected or configured via ADD[1:0] pins. This dual-input capability allows one PCB design to serve multiple vehicle platforms without hardware revision - a key advantage for Tier 1 suppliers managing diverse OEM requirements with the MAX9278AGTM/V+T.

What audio formats and sample rates does the MAX9278AGTM/V+T support?

The MAX9278AGTM/V+T supports L-PCM audio in stereo I2S mode or up to eight channels in TDM mode, with sample rates from 32kHz to 192kHz and sample depths up to 32 bits. It derives audio clock either from the source (serializer side) or sink (local oscillator), enabling flexible clock domain management. These capabilities make the MAX9278AGTM/V+T suitable for high-fidelity 7.1 surround sound distribution in premium rear-seat infotainment systems.

How does the embedded control channel of the MAX9278AGTM/V+T operate?

The MAX9278AGTM/V+T features a bidirectional embedded control channel supporting UART-to-UART, UART-to-I2C, and I2C-to-I2C modes at speeds up to 1Mbps. It allows a microcontroller to read/write registers of the serializer, deserializer, and attached peripherals (e.g., touch controllers, backlight drivers) at any time - independently of video frame timing. This eliminates the need for separate I2C buses and simplifies system-level control architecture when using the MAX9278AGTM/V+T.

Is the MAX9278AGTM/V+T qualified for automotive applications?

Yes, the MAX9278AGTM/V+T is AEC-Q100 Grade 2 qualified (-40°C to +105°C) and meets ISO 10605 and IEC 61000-4-2 ESD standards (±8kV contact / ±15kV air). Its design includes high-immunity reverse control channel mode, programmable spread spectrum, and robust power-supply filtering - all targeting reliability in demanding automotive environments. This qualification is explicitly confirmed in the official Maxim/Analog Devices datasheet for the MAX9278AGTM/V+T.