Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated MAX9693ESE-T

Overview

The MAX9693ESE-T from Maxim Integrated is a dual ultra-fast ECL-output comparator with latch-enable functionality, designed for high-speed signal acquisition and timing-critical sampling in RF and test equipment. It delivers 1.2ns typical propagation delay, 100ps channel-to-channel propagation match, and operates from +5V/-5.2V supplies to drive 50Ω-terminated transmission lines at >600MHz signal rates.

For engineers reviewing the MAX9693ESE-T datasheet, MAX9693ESE-T pinout, MAX9693ESE-T application, or MAX9693ESE-T equivalent, key selection criteria include latch-enable timing (0.5ns setup/hold), ECL-compatible differential inputs, open-emitter output architecture requiring external pull-down resistors, and QSOP-16 package thermal performance (771.5mW at +70°C).

Technical Context

The MAX9693ESE-T integrates two independent high-speed comparators sharing common power rails but with separate latch-enable inputs (LEA/LEB) and complementary outputs per channel. Its BiCMOS process enables simultaneous low input offset voltage (±11.5mV) and sub-2ns propagation delay across -40°C to +85°C.

Each channel features fully differential ECL-level inputs (common-mode range -2.5V to +3.0V), open-emitter outputs requiring external 50Ω–200Ω pull-downs to -2.0V or 240Ω–2000Ω to -5.2V, and latch-enable logic that forces unambiguous output states on LE falling edge based on instantaneous input conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The MAX9693ESE-T is housed in a 16-pin narrow SO (Small Outline) package with 1.27mm pitch, 10.3mm × 7.5mm body size, and exposed pad for thermal enhancement. Pin 1 is marked by a beveled corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX9693ESE-T, MAX9693EEE offers identical performance in a smaller QSOP package with lower thermal capacity, while LMH7322MA/NOPB provides single-supply flexibility at the cost of ECL compatibility, latch-enable functionality, and dual-channel integration - making MAX9693ESE-T uniquely suited for precision dual-channel strobed acquisition in ECL-based instrumentation.

Availability

MAX9693ESE-T is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for high-speed line receivers, peak detectors, threshold detectors, high-speed triggers, and time-of-flight measurement systems requiring stable component supply across industrial temperature ranges.

Supply support for MAX9693ESE-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 and mixed-signal ICs for industrial, communications, and computing applications.

The MAX9691/MAX9692/MAX9693 family targets high-speed instrumentation and test equipment requiring sub-nanosecond timing fidelity, ECL interoperability, and dual-channel synchronized sampling capability.

FAQ

What power supply configuration does the MAX9693ESE-T require?

The MAX9693ESE-T requires dual supplies: +5V on VCC (Pin 11) and -5.2V on VEE (Pin 16). These rails establish the ECL-compatible voltage domain for both inputs and open-emitter outputs. Local 0.1µF ceramic decoupling capacitors must be placed adjacent to each supply pin. The device draws up to 50mA total supply current across temperature, with 34–46mA typical at +25°C.

How are the open-emitter outputs of the MAX9693ESE-T terminated?

The MAX9693ESE-T outputs are open-emitter and require external pull-down resistors to define logic thresholds and terminate transmission lines. For -2.0V termination, use 50Ω–200Ω resistors; for -5.2V termination, use 240Ω–2000Ω. Output swing ranges from -1.06V (VOH) to -1.89V (VOL) into 50Ω loads. Improper termination causes signal reflections, increased jitter, and degraded propagation delay consistency.

What is the function of the dual latch-enable inputs (LEA/LEB) on the MAX9693ESE-T?

The MAX9693ESE-T provides separate differential latch-enable inputs (LEA/LEA and LEB/LEB) for each comparator channel. When driven low, each LE pair freezes the corresponding Q/Q outputs to unambiguous ECL states reflecting input conditions at the latch transition. Unused LE inputs must be tied to defined logic levels: LE to GND and complementary LE to ECL-high. This architecture enables independent, noise-immune sampling control per channel.

Can the MAX9693ESE-T operate with input signals outside its specified common-mode range?

The MAX9693ESE-T tolerates one input within the valid common-mode range (-2.5V to +3.0V) while the other is outside it, without false tripping. However, full AC/DC specifications-including propagation delay, skew, and dispersion-are guaranteed only when both inputs remain within the specified range. Operation beyond this range may increase input bias current and offset drift, degrading timing predictability in precision applications.

What layout practices are essential for stable operation of the MAX9693ESE-T?

Stable operation of the MAX9693ESE-T requires a solid ground plane, microstrip routing for all high-speed traces, and 0.01µF ceramic decoupling capacitors placed within 2mm of VCC and VEE pins. Input and output traces must be impedance-controlled (50Ω), and GND connections (Pins 3 and 14) must tie directly to the ground plane. Floating inputs or poor decoupling induce oscillation due to the device's high gain-bandwidth product, especially near the linear region.