Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9378EUA+T

Overview

MAX9378EUA+T 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 routing and DSLAM timing interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9378EUA+T datasheet, MAX9378EUA+T pinout, MAX9378EUA+T application, or MAX9378EUA+T equivalent, this page provides verified functional role, real-world termination requirements, temperature-stable LVDS output behavior, and validated alternative options for high-speed differential signal translation in telecom infrastructure.

Technical Context

The MAX9378EUA+T implements a current-steering LVDS output stage optimized for point-to-point 100Ω transmission lines, 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-output delay (tPCO), while RST forces outputs to known low state independent of input phase. Propagation delay variation over temperature is <100ps across full operating range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9378EUA+T is housed in an 8-pin µMAX package (3.05mm × 3.05mm × 0.8mm body, 0.65mm pitch), RoHS-compliant, with exposed pad for thermal enhancement. Requires 0.1µF + 0.01µF ceramic bypass 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 MC100EP131DG, MAX9378EUA+T uniquely integrates pin-selectable divide-by-four while maintaining ANSI LVDS compliance and sub-30ps skew-enabling single-chip clock rate adaptation and protocol-level interoperability without layout or firmware changes.

Availability

MAX9378EUA+T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DSLAM line cards, WAN router backplanes, optical transport terminals, and cellular base station controllers requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed traceable sourcing.

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

The MAX9378EUA+T belongs to Maxim's high-speed differential translator product line, engineered specifically for telecom infrastructure clock distribution where low jitter, wide input compatibility, and integrated frequency division reduce system complexity.

FAQ

What is the maximum supported input frequency for MAX9378EUA+T in nondivided mode?

The MAX9378EUA+T supports up to 2.0GHz input frequency in nondivided mode, as guaranteed by its switching frequency specification (fMAX ≥ 2.0GHz). This enables direct use with OC-48 (2.488Gbps) and Gigabit Ethernet reference clocks. The device maintains full LVDS output compliance and ≤30ps pulse skew across this range when terminated properly with 100Ω differential load.

How should the LVDS outputs of MAX9378EUA+T be terminated?

The MAX9378EUA+T LVDS outputs require a 100Ω±1% differential termination resistor placed directly across OUT and OUT (Pins 6 and 7). This resistor completes the current-steering loop and sets the output voltage swing (VOD = 250–450mV). Termination must be located at the receiver end of the transmission line to prevent reflections; point-to-point topology is strongly recommended.

Does MAX9378EUA+T support LVPECL inputs?

Yes, MAX9378EUA+T fully supports LVPECL inputs. Its differential input stage accepts any standard-including LVPECL, LVDS, HSTL, and CML-as long as the differential amplitude is ≥100mV and common-mode voltage falls within 0.05V to (VCC – 0.05V). No external level shifting is required, making it suitable for mixed-signaling environments like telecom backplanes.

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

The RST pin on MAX9378EUA+T is an asynchronous active-high reset that forces both LVDS outputs to a differential low state, independent of input signal or SEL setting. It ensures deterministic startup behavior and eliminates metastability during power-up or clock reconfiguration. Internal 75kΩ pulldown holds RST low when unconnected, preventing unintended resets.

Is MAX9378EUA+T pin-compatible with MAX9377EUA+T?

Yes, MAX9378EUA+T is pin-compatible with MAX9377EUA+T: both share identical 8-pin µMAX footprint, pin numbering, and pin functions (SEL, IN, IN, GND, RST, OUT, OUT, VCC). However, MAX9377EUA+T outputs LVPECL (terminated to VCC–2V), while MAX9378EUA+T outputs LVDS (terminated differentially). Swapping requires changing termination network and verifying receiver compatibility.