Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9692ESE+

Overview

The MAX9692ESE+ from Maxim Integrated is a single-channel, ultra-fast ECL-output comparator with latch-enable functionality, designed for high-speed signal conditioning in RF and digital test systems. It delivers 1.2ns typical propagation delay, 100ps skew, and operates from +5V/-5.2V supplies to drive 50Ω-terminated transmission lines up to 600MHz. Its differential inputs and complementary ECL-compatible outputs support precise timing-critical applications such as high-speed triggers and peak detectors.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9692ESE+ datasheet, MAX9692ESE+ pinout, MAX9692ESE+ application, or MAX9692ESE+ equivalent, key selection criteria include latch-enable timing (0.5ns setup/hold), input offset voltage (±11.5mV max), open-emitter output configuration requiring external pull-down resistors, and SO-16 narrow package compatibility with ECL-logic interface requirements.

Technical Context

The MAX9692ESE+ implements a BiCMOS-based comparator core optimized for minimal propagation delay dispersion (150ps) and tight channel-to-channel matching. Its latch-enable input enables sample-hold operation with sub-nanosecond timing control: 0.5ns minimum latch pulse width and 0.5ns setup time relative to the LE falling edge.

It features dual ground pins (GND1 for input stage bias, GND2 for ECL output stage), open-emitter outputs requiring external 50Ω–200Ω pull-downs to -2.0V or 240Ω–2000Ω to -5.2V, and guaranteed operation across -40°C to +85°C with ±5V supply rails.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

MAX9692ESE+ is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package with exposed pad option not specified. Pin assignments are fixed per Maxim's SO-16 pinout for the MAX9692 family.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX9692ESE+, MAX9692EUB+ offers space savings at the cost of reduced thermal margin and fewer N.C. pins for grounding, while MAX9693ESE+ provides dual-channel capability with identical speed but higher supply current and channel-to-channel match (100ps tPDM) for coherent signal processing.

Availability

MAX9692ESE+ is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed line receivers, peak detectors, and threshold detectors requiring stable component supply in industrial test equipment, RF instrumentation, and automated test systems.

Supply support for MAX9692ESE+ 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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX9691/MAX9692/MAX9693 product line delivers ultra-fast ECL comparators with latch-enable for timing-critical signal acquisition in test and measurement, radar, and high-speed data conversion systems.

FAQ

What is the recommended power supply bypassing scheme for MAX9692ESE+?

MAX9692ESE+ requires separate 0.1µF ceramic capacitors placed as close as possible to both VCC (Pin 1) and VEE (Pin 4), each connected directly to the ground plane. The device uses dual ground pins (GND1 at Pin 8, GND2 internally tied to VEE), so GND1 must connect to the same solid copper ground plane used for bypassing. This layout minimizes supply-induced noise and preserves sub-ns timing accuracy in the MAX9692ESE+.

How should unused pins be handled on MAX9692ESE+?

On MAX9692ESE+, Pins 5–7, 9, 10, 13–15 are marked N.C. (No Connection) and must remain unconnected - they are not internally bonded. The LE pin (Pin 16) must never be left floating: if latch functionality is unused, it must be tied to ground (VEE potential), and the complementary LE input (not present on MAX9692ESE+) is irrelevant. Leaving LE unconnected risks metastability and erratic output behavior in the MAX9692ESE+.

What external components are required for MAX9692ESE+ output termination?

MAX9692ESE+ outputs (Pins 11 and 12) are open-emitter and require external pull-down resistors. For VT = -2.0V operation, use 50Ω–200Ω resistors; for VT = -5.2V, use 240Ω–2000Ω. These resistors must connect to the appropriate negative termination voltage rail, not to ground. Improper resistor values or connection points will distort ECL logic levels and degrade the MAX9692ESE+ propagation delay and skew performance.

Does MAX9692ESE+ support operation with only one supply rail?

No, MAX9692ESE+ requires both +5V (VCC, Pin 1) and -5.2V (VEE, Pin 4) supplies to function. Its BiCMOS architecture and ECL-compatible output stage depend on the dual-rail configuration to achieve specified propagation delay, output voltage swing (-0.76V to -1.89V), and input common-mode range (-2.5V to +3.0V). Operating MAX9692ESE+ with only one supply will result in nonfunctional or damaged output stages.

What is the maximum input slew rate requirement to avoid oscillation in MAX9692ESE+?

With proper microstrip layout and 50Ω source termination, MAX9692ESE+ requires a minimum input slew rate of 1V/µs for clean switching without oscillation. Layout quality and source impedance directly affect this threshold: poor grounding or >50Ω source resistance increases the required slew rate. Adding regenerative feedback (e.g., 1kΩ/10pF) can reduce the minimum required slew rate by up to 4×, enabling reliable operation with slower input edges in the MAX9692ESE+.