Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9484ETP

Overview

MAX9484ETP from Maxim Integrated is a programmable audio clock generator IC designed for MPEG-2 audio systems, providing two buffered clock outputs (256×, 384×, or 768× sampling frequency f_S) with 21ps RMS jitter at 73.728MHz, integrated VCXO with ±200ppm tuning range, and 27MHz buffered MCLK output - all operating from a single 3.3V supply in DVD players, digital HDTV, and set-top boxes.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9484ETP datasheet, MAX9484ETP pinout, MAX9484ETP application, or MAX9484ETP equivalent, this device supports I²C or hardwired configuration of audio sampling rates (12–96kHz), offers dual independent clock enables, requires no external PLL components, and delivers low-jitter timing critical for high-fidelity audio ADC/DAC synchronization in consumer multimedia systems.

Technical Context

The MAX9484ETP implements a PLL-based clock synthesis architecture using an internal VCXO referenced to a 27MHz crystal or system clock, generating precisely scaled audio clocks via integer multiplication (256/384/768×f_S). Its dual-output structure allows independent enable control of CLK_OUT1 and CLK_OUT2, each configurable for identical or different scaling factors and sampling frequencies.

It supports two distinct programming modes: software mode (MODE = low) using I²C with programmable 7-bit slave address, and hardwire mode (MODE = high) using three-level inputs (FS0/FS1/FS2) for sampling rate, scaling factor, and rate selection. The VCXO's 10µs tuning response and 5ms power-on settling ensure rapid system lock under dynamic conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9484ETP is housed in a 20-pin thin QFN package (4mm × 4mm) with exposed ground pad. Pin functions are electrically identical to MAX9485ETP per Maxim's documentation and pin compatibility assurance across the family.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar programmable audio clock generator applications.

Compared with MAX9485ETP, the MAX9484ETP shares identical timing performance and pin compatibility but may reflect a factory-trimmed variant optimized for specific production lots; versus Si5338A-D-GM, it trades broader programmability for lower jitter, integrated VCXO, and simpler audio-specific configuration - making it superior for cost-sensitive, high-fidelity MPEG-2 audio systems.

Availability

MAX9484ETP is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for DVD players, digital HDTV receivers, and set-top boxes requiring stable component supply, low-jitter audio clocking, and industrial temperature operation.

Supply support for MAX9484ETP 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) is a semiconductor company specializing in precision analog, mixed-signal, and power management ICs for industrial, communications, and consumer applications.

The MAX9484ETP belongs to Maxim's audio timing product line, engineered specifically to replace discrete crystal oscillators and PLLs in MPEG-2 audio decoding systems - delivering low-jitter, multi-output clock generation with system-level VCXO synchronization.

FAQ

What is the function of the TUN pin on the MAX9484ETP?

The TUN pin on the MAX9484ETP is the voltage-controlled tuning input for the integrated VCXO. Applying a DC voltage from 0V to 3V adjusts the 27MHz MCLK output frequency over a ±200ppm range, enabling precise alignment with the host MPEG processor's system clock. This eliminates the need for external tuning components and ensures robust audio-video synchronization in real-time decoding systems. The MAX9484ETP's TUN input has 94kΩ impedance and responds within 10µs to voltage changes.

Does the MAX9484ETP support both I²C and hardwired configuration simultaneously?

No, the MAX9484ETP does not support simultaneous I²C and hardwired configuration. The MODE pin selects one exclusive mode: when MODE is low, SCL/FS0 and SDA/FS1 operate as I²C bus lines, and FS2 is ignored; when MODE is high, those pins become three-level function selection inputs (FS0/FS1/FS2), and I²C communication is disabled. This hardware-muxed design prevents bus contention and ensures deterministic startup behavior in the MAX9484ETP.

What is the maximum output frequency achievable with the MAX9484ETP?

The MAX9484ETP achieves a maximum output frequency of 73.728MHz, realized when configured for 768×f_S with f_S = 96kHz. This frequency is fully supported across the −40°C to +85°C operating range and exhibits 21ps RMS period jitter under typical conditions (VDD = 3.3V, CL = 20pF). The MAX9484ETP's output drivers maintain 45–55% duty cycle and ≤2ns rise/fall times at this frequency, meeting LVCMOS timing requirements for high-speed audio interfaces.

How does the MAX9484ETP handle power-on reset and external reset?

The MAX9484ETP incorporates an internal power-on reset that activates when VDD exceeds 2.2V and completes after 1024 cycles of the 27MHz reference clock (~37.7µs). An external reset is triggered by driving the RST pin low for >20ns, also requiring 1024 reference cycles to complete. During reset, the MAX9484ETP initializes registers to defaults: in I²C mode, CLK_OUT1/2 = 256×32kHz; in hardwire mode, outputs follow FS0/FS1/FS2 states. RST is internally pulled high, so no external pull-up is required.

Can the MAX9484ETP generate different frequencies on CLK_OUT1 and CLK_OUT2 simultaneously?

Yes, the MAX9484ETP can generate different frequencies on CLK_OUT1 and CLK_OUT2 simultaneously. Each output is independently configurable for scaling factor (256/384/768×f_S) and sampling frequency (12–96kHz) via either I²C register bits (C2–C0 for CLK_OUT1, C3–C1 for CLK_OUT2) or hardwired inputs (FS0/FS1/FS2 plus SAO1/SAO2 enable logic). This allows, for example, CLK_OUT1 = 768×48kHz (36.864MHz) for a front DAC and CLK_OUT2 = 384×96kHz (36.864MHz) for a subwoofer DAC - both at identical frequency but with independent enable control in the MAX9484ETP.