Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9378EUA+

Overview

MAX9378EUA+ from Maxim Integrated is a fully differential, high-speed LVDS translator with pin-selectable divide-by-four function, 2.0GHz switching frequency, 363ps typical propagation delay (low-to-high), and 30ps maximum pulse skew. It accepts LVDS/LVPECL/HSTL/CML inputs ≥100mV differential amplitude and delivers ANSI EIA/TIA-644-compliant LVDS outputs into 100Ω loads for backplane and telecom routing applications.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9378EUA+ datasheet, MAX9378EUA+ pinout, MAX9378EUA+ application, or MAX9378EUA+ equivalent, this page provides verified electrical parameters, termination guidance, temperature-compensated timing behavior, and real-world substitution options for high-speed signal integrity design.

Technical Context

The MAX9378EUA+ implements a current-steering LVDS output stage optimized for point-to-point 100Ω differential transmission, with guaranteed 250–450mV differential output voltage (VOD) across -40°C to +85°C. Its input stage supports wide common-mode range (0.05V to VCC–0.05V) and accepts any differential standard within supply rails.

Frequency division is controlled asynchronously via RST and SEL pins: SEL = high enables divide-by-four with ≤1.0ns clock-to-divider output delay (tPCO), while RST forces known low-state reset. Propagation delay variation over temperature is <100ps across full operating range, and added random jitter is ≤2psRMS at 1.34GHz input.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9378EUA+ uses an 8-pin µMAX package (3.05mm × 3.05mm × 0.8mm, 0.5mm pitch), thermally enhanced for high-speed operation with exposed pad (not electrically connected). Bypassing requires 0.1µF and 0.01µF ceramic capacitors placed adjacent to VCC pin.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with SN65LVDS32DR and LMH0384SQ/NOPB, MAX9378EUA+ uniquely integrates pin-selectable divide-by-four, broad input standard support (LVDS/LVPECL/HSTL/CML), and lowest jitter (≤2psRMS), making it optimal for clock-domain bridging in space-constrained telecom and networking hardware where both translation and division are required.

Availability

MAX9378EUA+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for backplane routing, DSLAM line cards, WAN edge routers, and LTE baseband processing requiring stable component supply, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle continuity.

Supply support for MAX9378EUA+ 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 high-speed interface ICs for industrial, communications, and computing markets.

The MAX9377/MAX9378 family targets high-speed differential signal translation in telecom infrastructure, specifically addressing clock domain bridging, backplane interconnect, and multi-standard interface consolidation.

FAQ

What is the maximum input frequency supported by MAX9378EUA+?

MAX9378EUA+ supports up to 2.0GHz switching frequency with guaranteed performance when differential output voltage (VOD) remains ≥250mV. At 1.34GHz input, it adds ≤2psRMS random jitter and maintains ≤30ps pulse skew - critical for 2.5Gbps serial links. Operation beyond 2.0GHz is possible but not production-tested or guaranteed per datasheet specifications.

How should MAX9378EUA+ LVDS outputs be terminated?

MAX9378EUA+ LVDS outputs require a 100Ω ±1% differential termination resistor between OUT (Pin 7) and OUT (Pin 6) at the receiver end. This matches standard PCB trace impedance and produces the specified 250–450mV VOD. Termination values between 90Ω and 132Ω are acceptable depending on trace characteristic impedance, but 100Ω delivers optimal noise immunity and rise/fall time (93–220ps).

Does MAX9378EUA+ support LVPECL inputs?

Yes, MAX9378EUA+ accepts LVPECL inputs directly - its differential input stage supports LVDS, LVPECL, HSTL, and CML standards with a common-mode range of 0.05V to (VCC – 0.05V) and minimum 100mV differential amplitude. No external level-shifting circuitry is required, enabling direct connection to LVPECL clock generators or ASIC outputs.

What is the function of the RST pin on MAX9378EUA+?

The RST pin on MAX9378EUA+ is an asynchronous active-high reset that forces both LVDS outputs to a differential low state, clearing internal divider state and ensuring deterministic startup. When asserted during power-up with SEL = high, it prevents unknown divider phase states from propagating to outputs - essential for systems requiring glitch-free clock initialization in telecom control planes.

Is MAX9378EUA+ pin-compatible with MAX9377EUA+?

Yes, MAX9378EUA+ and MAX9377EUA+ share identical 8-pin µMAX packaging, pinout, supply requirements (+3.3V), and logic-level control (SEL/RST), enabling board-level substitution where LVDS output is required instead of LVPECL. However, output termination differs: MAX9378EUA+ requires 100Ω differential load, while MAX9377EUA+ needs 50Ω to (VCC – 2V).