Pre-emphasis driver sets benchmark for 8.5-, 10Gbps apps

Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the MAX3984, a 1-10Gbps pre-emphasis driver with receive equalizer. The new device is the company's next-generation pre-emphasis driver, which uses advanced analog equalization technology in order to set a performance benchmark for 8.5Gbps and 10Gbps applications.

A single MAX3984 increases the reach of, and reduces jitter in, system interconnect applications by compensating for up to 10m of 24 AWG cable or 30 inches of FR4 circuit board. Consequently, it is suitable for emerging generations of 8.5Gbps Fibre Channel, 10GbE, SFP active copper-cable assemblies and system-backplane drivers/receivers.

The MAX3984 provides four pre-emphasis settings on the transmit side to optimize signal quality for different transmission environments, while SFP-compliant loss-of-signal (LOS) detection on the receive side simplifies system design. The device's 3mm x 3mm, 16-pin TQFN package enables compact board layout and provides flexibility in chip placement and signal routing.

Additionally, its 1-10Gbps operating range allows backward compatibility for applications that require support for multiple generations of standards. The MAX3984 is fully specified over the 0 to 85°C temperature range, and achieves excellent performance down to -40°C. Prices start at $6.95 (1,000-up, FOB USA).