Maxim Integrated Products has released a +3.3 V, multirate common-cathode VCSEL driver with automatic power control. The MAX3795 operates from 1 Gbps up to 4.25 Gbps and can be used in Gigabit Ethernet, Fibre Channel, and OC-48 modules for short-reach applications. Along with the MAX3793 TIA and MAX3794 limiting amplifier, the MAX3795 forms a complete chipset for 1 Gbps to 4.25 Gbps optical modules. Manufactured using Maxim's second-generation, in-house silicon germanium (SiGe) process, the MAX3795 has a small form-factor and excellent jitter performance. It is pin compatible with the MAX3740A, a 3.2 Gbps VCSEL driver.

Article Tools

• 

The MAX3795 is ideal for SFP and SFF-8472 compatible shortwave optical modules. When coupled with the DS1859/DS1856* SFP controller ICs, this new VCSEL driver meets all SFF8472 digital diagnostics and timing requirements.

Operating from a single +3.3 V supply, the MAX3795 has a programmable bias current range of 1 mA to 15 mA and a programmable modulation current range of 2 mA to 15 mA. The device accepts differential CML-compatible inputs and incorporates an automatic average power control circuit. The MAX3795 has edge-speed transition times of only 52 ps; it generates only 8.4 ps deterministic jitter, and 0.5 ps of random jitter. The VCSEL driver can be used in common-cathode as well as differential configurations. An optional peaking feature can improve VCSEL edge speed, if required.

Available in a 4-mm x 4-mm 24-pin QFN package, the MAX3795 operates over the extended temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). Prices start at $5.50 (1000-up, FOB USA). An evaluation kit is available to speed designs.

For more information, visit www.maxim-ic.com.