Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9692EPE+

Overview

The MAX9692EPE+ from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, ultra-fast ECL-output comparator with latch-enable functionality, designed for high-speed signal conditioning in timing-critical systems. It delivers 1.2ns typical propagation delay, 100ps skew, and operates from +5V/-5.2V supplies to drive 50Ω-terminated transmission lines - enabling use in >600MHz high-speed line receivers and peak detectors.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9692EPE+ datasheet, MAX9692EPE+ pinout, MAX9692EPE+ application, or MAX9692EPE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include latch-enable timing (0.5ns setup/hold), ECL-compatible differential inputs, open-emitter outputs requiring external pull-down resistors, and PDIP-16 package compatibility with legacy high-speed test and instrumentation designs.

Technical Context

The MAX9692EPE+ implements a BiCMOS-based ECL comparator core with fully differential inputs and complementary open-emitter outputs. Its latch-enable (LE) input enables sample-hold operation: when LE is ECL-high, it functions as a comparator; when LE transitions low, outputs lock to unambiguous ECL states based on instantaneous input conditions.

This device requires dual-rail supplies (+5V VCC, -5.2V VEE), uses two independent ground pins (GND1 for input stage bias, GND2 for output stage bias), and mandates microstrip layout with ground-plane PCBs and local 0.01µF ceramic decoupling at supply pins to maintain sub-2ns timing integrity.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9692EPE+ is housed in a 16-pin plastic DIP (PDIP) package with 0.3-inch width, RoHS-compliant lead finish, and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is VCC; pins 15 and 16 are GND1 and GND2 respectively; pin 13 is LE (latch-enable input); pins 2 and 3 are IN+ and IN−; pins 6 and 7 are Q OUT and Q OUT; pin 4 is VEE.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar ultra-fast ECL comparator applications.

Compared with MAX9692ESE+ and ADCMP572BCPZ-R7, the MAX9692EPE+ uniquely combines through-hole PDIP robustness, native ECL dual-rail support, and integrated latch-enable - making it the only option among the three qualified for legacy high-speed test instrumentation requiring socketed, thermally stable, and synchronously sampled comparators.

Availability

MAX9692EPE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed line receivers, peak detectors, threshold detectors, and high-speed triggers requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges and long-lifecycle programs.

Supply support for MAX9692EPE+ 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 high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and power-management ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX9691/MAX9692/MAX9693 family was engineered specifically for ultra-high-speed signal acquisition and timing-critical decision circuits where sub-2ns propagation and ECL interoperability are mandatory - targeting test equipment, radar, and optical communication front-ends.

FAQ

What is the recommended power supply configuration for MAX9692EPE+?

The MAX9692EPE+ requires dual-rail supplies: +5V on VCC (Pin 1) and -5.2V on VEE (Pin 4). Each supply must be bypassed to GND with a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor placed as close as possible to the respective pin. GND1 (Pin 15) and GND2 (Pin 16) must both connect to a low-inductance ground plane, as they serve distinct internal bias domains. Failure to separate bypassing or share grounds degrades propagation delay consistency and increases jitter in the MAX9692EPE+.

How should unused latch-enable (LE) functionality be handled on MAX9692EPE+?

When the latch-enable feature is not used on the MAX9692EPE+, Pin 13 (LE) must be connected directly to ground (VEE potential). This forces the MAX9692EPE+ into continuous-compare mode. Leaving LE floating is prohibited - it may cause metastability or erratic output behavior. The MAX9692EPE+ has no complementary LE pin; unlike the MAX9693, only one LE input exists, so no companion high-level connection is required.

What external components are mandatory for MAX9692EPE+ output interfacing?

The MAX9692EPE+ features open-emitter Q and Q̅ outputs (Pins 6 and 7), which require external pull-down resistors to establish valid ECL logic levels. For VT = -2V termination, use 50Ω–200Ω resistors; for VT = -5.2V, use 240Ω–2000Ω. These resistors must connect to the appropriate termination voltage rail - not to GND. No internal termination exists in the MAX9692EPE+, and omitting pull-downs results in undefined output states and failed signal integrity.

Can MAX9692EPE+ operate with input signals outside the specified common-mode range?

The MAX9692EPE+ tolerates one input in the valid common-mode range (-2.5V to +3.0V) while the other is outside that range, without false tripping - a key reliability feature for noisy or mismatched signal paths. However, full AC performance (propagation delay, skew, dispersion) is only guaranteed when both inputs remain within the specified common-mode window. Operating outside this range may increase offset drift or reduce noise immunity, but will not damage the MAX9692EPE+ under absolute maximum ratings.

What PCB layout practices are critical for achieving 1.2ns propagation delay with MAX9692EPE+?

To achieve the specified 1.2ns propagation delay and avoid oscillation or timing jitter, the MAX9692EPE+ requires a multilayer PCB with uninterrupted ground plane, microstrip routing for all high-speed nodes (inputs, outputs, LE), and localized 0.01µF ceramic decoupling at VCC and VEE pins. Input traces must be impedance-controlled (50Ω), and output loads terminated at the destination - not at the MAX9692EPE+ pins. GND1 and GND2 must join the ground plane at separate low-inductance vias to prevent coupling between input and output stages in the MAX9692EPE+.