Maxim's new high-dynamic-range TIA can amplify nanoamp signals to fit the needs of low-cost differential ADCs.
SUNNYVALE, CA—December 1, 2009—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) introduces the MAX3806, a high-sensitivity, high-dynamic-range TIA (transimpedance amplifier) for laser-based distance-measurement applications such as automotive active cruise control, industrial safety curtains, and consumer/construction range finders. This TIA can receive an input signal as low as 42nAP-P and amplify it to the range required by low-cost differential ADCs, while handling overload signals of up to 2mAP-P. A pin-selectable gain setting of 30kΩ or 60kΩ allows the MAX3806 to achieve typical bandwidths of 98MHz and 49MHz, respectively, for a variety of applications using the same device.
An on-chip attenuator can quickly reduce the gain by 14dB to help suppress unwanted signals. These integrated functions eliminate the need for multiple TIAs and analog switching multiplexers, thus saving board space and cost. The device's high dynamic range (42nAP-P to 40µAP-P) enables designers to use the same front-end receiver circuit for multiple applications.
The MAX3806 operates from a single 5.0V supply, and is specified over the -40°C to +105°C AEC-Q100 Level 2 temperature range. It is available in a lead-free, 12-pin TQFN package. Prices start at $2.35 (1000-up, FOB USA). An evaluation kit is available to speed designs.
Maxim Integrated Products is a publicly traded company that designs, manufactures, and sells high-performance semiconductor products. The Company was founded over 25 years ago with the mission to deliver innovative analog and mixed-signal engineering solutions that add value to its customers' products. To date, it has developed over 6100 products serving the industrial, communications, consumer, and computing markets.
Maxim reported revenue in excess of $1.6 billion for fiscal 2009. A Fortune 1000 company, Maxim is included in the Nasdaq 100, the Russell 1000, and the MSCI USA indices. For more information, go to www.maxim-ic.com.