MAX1209ETL+T - 12-Bit 80Msps 3.3V IF-Sampling ADC | Maxim Integrated
MPN: MAX1209ETL+T ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18.45 | $18.45 |
| 10 | $16.92 | $169.20 |
| 100 | $14.55 | $1,455.00 |
| 500 | $12.4 | $6,200.00 |
| 1,000 | $10.85 | $10,850.00 |
MAX1209ETL+T Overview
An ADC, or analog-to-digital converter, is a semiconductor device that samples continuous-time analog signals and converts them into discrete digital codes for downstream processing. IF-sampling ADCs are a specialized category designed to digitize intermediate-frequency (IF) signals directly in communication receivers, bypassing traditional baseband downconversion stages. The MAX1209ETL+T sits within the broader hierarchy of data converters -> ADC -> flash/pipelined ADC -> IF-sampling ADC -> power management and signal-chain ICs.
Key features include an 80 mega-sample-per-second (Msps) maximum sampling rate, 12-bit resolution, a 3.3V analog supply, and operation over the industrial -40 to +85 C temperature range. The internal pipelined/flash quantizer architecture delivers wide input bandwidth suitable for IF frequencies, while the differential T/H amplifier minimizes distortion on demanding input waveforms.
Architecturally, the MAX1209ETL+T uses a multi-stage pipelined core fed by a high-bandwidth differential track-and-hold front end, allowing it to capture high-IF signals at the second or third Nyquist zone with low aperture jitter. Parallel CMOS-compatible digital outputs simplify interface to FPGAs or DSPs.
Typical applications include cellular base-station IF digitizers, digital predistortion feedback paths in wireless infrastructure, radar and electronic-countermeasure receivers, medical imaging front ends, and broadband instrumentation. Industrial screening and a wide operating temperature window also suit it for test-and-measurement systems.
When designing with this part, place the exposed pad on a contiguous ground pour with multiple thermal vias to minimize die-to-ambient thermal resistance. Use an external low-noise LDO on the 3.3V AVDD rail and decouple it with 10 uF and 0.1 uF ceramics placed as close as possible to the supply pins.
This page synthesizes distributor pricing, drop-in alternatives, and practical design notes not found in the manufacturer datasheet alone.
Drop-in alternatives for MAX1209ETL+T — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with MAX1209ETL+T (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Architecture, Operating Temperature, Package, Number of Channels, Analog Supply Voltage.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
MAX1209ETL+
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX1209ETL+G3U
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$10.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →AD9228ABCPZRL7-40
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$21.4 / Unit
View Datasheet →ADS6123IRHB25
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$23.85 / Unit
View Datasheet →LTC2283CUP
✅ Drop-In✓ In Stock
$38.95 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX1209ETL+T Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Resolution | 12 bit |
| Sampling Rate | 80 Msps |
| Architecture | Flash / Pipelined IF-Sampling |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Analog Supply Voltage | 3.3 V |
| Input Configuration | Fully Differential or Single-Ended |
| Input Type | Differential, wideband track-and-hold |
| Package Type | TQFN-40 (6 x 6 mm, 0.8 mm height) |
| Package Outline | MO-220WJJD-2 |
| Pins | 40 |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C |
| Screening Level | Industrial |
| Terminal Form | No Lead (HVQCCN package code) |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
MAX1209ETL+T Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | AIN+ — Differential analog input positive |
| Pin 2 | AIN- — Differential analog input negative |
| Pin 3 | AVDD — Analog 3.3 V supply |
| Pin 4 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 5 | REFIO — Reference voltage I/O |
| Pin 6 | REFRTN — Reference return |
| Pin 7 | REFIN — Reference input |
| Pin 8 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 9 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 10 | D0 — Digital output bit 0 (LSB) |
| Pin 11 | D1 — Digital output bit 1 |
| Pin 12 | D2 — Digital output bit 2 |
| Pin 13 | D3 — Digital output bit 3 |
| Pin 14 | D4 — Digital output bit 4 |
| Pin 15 | D5 — Digital output bit 5 |
| Pin 16 | D6 — Digital output bit 6 |
| Pin 17 | D7 — Digital output bit 7 |
| Pin 18 | D8 — Digital output bit 8 |
| Pin 19 | D9 — Digital output bit 9 |
| Pin 20 | D10 — Digital output bit 10 |
| Pin 21 | D11 — Digital output bit 11 (MSB) |
| Pin 22 | OVDD — Output driver 3.3 V supply |
| Pin 23 | OGND — Output ground |
| Pin 24 | CLK — Clock input |
| Pin 25 | CLKOUT — Clock output (data ready) |
| Pin 26 | PD — Power-down control input |
| Pin 27 | MODE — Mode select input |
| Pin 28 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 29 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 30 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 31 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 32 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 33 | AVDD — Analog 3.3 V supply |
| Pin 34 | AGND — Analog ground |
| Pin 35 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 36 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 37 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 38 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 39 | NC — Not connected (per datasheet) |
| Pin 40 | EP — Exposed thermal pad - ground |
Typical Applications
MAX1209ETL+T is suitable for 6 applications: Cellular Base-Station IF Digitizer, Digital Predistortion Feedback Path, Radar / ECM Receiver Front End, Medical Imaging Signal Chain, Broadband Test and Measurement, Software Defined Radio IF Sampling.
Cellular Base-Station IF Digitizer
The MAX1209ETL+T fits cellular base-station IF digitizers because its 80 Msps sample rate captures 30-40 MHz intermediate frequencies with comfortable Nyquist headroom. The 12-bit resolution provides ~70 dB SNR suitable for multi-carrier GSM/UMTS receivers. Place the ADC downstream of the SAW filter, drive the differential T/H inputs through a balun, and route the parallel CMOS outputs to an FPGA or baseband ASIC. The 3.3 V supply matches typical RF-board rail voltages, simplifying power architecture.
Recommended
Digital Predistortion Feedback Path
The MAX1209ETL+T serves digital predistortion (DPD) feedback paths in wireless infrastructure where the power amplifier output must be captured at high IF for linearization. The 80 Msps rate and 12-bit resolution deliver sufficient dynamic range to characterize the PA's distortion products, while the differential T/H input rejects common-mode noise from the high-power transmit chain. The TQFN-40 footprint sits adjacent to RF mixers with short trace lengths to preserve aperture jitter performance.
Recommended
Radar / ECM Receiver Front End
For radar and electronic-countermeasure (ECM) receivers, the MAX1209ETL+T digitizes wideband IF signals at the output of the second downconversion stage. Its 80 Msps rate covers IF bandwidths up to 35 MHz, and the 12-bit quantization supports pulse-compression and digital beamforming in modern phased-array systems. The industrial -40 to +85 C temperature range and rugged TQFN-EP package suit outdoor military and aerospace installations.
Recommended
Medical Imaging Signal Chain
The MAX1209ETL+T appears in medical ultrasound and imaging front ends where 12-bit dynamic range and 80 Msps conversion speed digitize beamformed analog channels. The differential input rejects switching noise from digital circuitry on the same board, while the low-power 3.3 V supply keeps per-channel dissipation under 200 mW - important for dense multi-channel probes. Designers pair the ADC with a low-noise LDO such as the ADP170 from ADI for the AVDD rail.
Recommended
Broadband Test and Measurement
In oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and arbitrary waveform digitizers, the MAX1209ETL+T provides 80 Msps of 12-bit capture for inputs up to 35 MHz. The parallel CMOS output bus connects directly to FPGA LVCMOS receivers for real-time DSP or on-screen FFT processing. The exposed-pad package ensures junction temperature stays within limits under continuous conversion at full speed.
Recommended
Software Defined Radio IF Sampling
The MAX1209ETL+T enables software-defined radio (SDR) platforms that sample the IF directly after the mixer, eliminating analog baseband stages. The 12-bit, 80 Msps converter delivers >70 dB spurious-free dynamic range, sufficient for narrow-band demodulation of FM, DVB, and tactical radio waveforms. The TQFN-40 footprint is layout-compatible with common SDR reference designs and pairs naturally with Xilinx or Altera FPGAs that absorb the parallel data bus.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MAX1209ETL+T — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MAX1209ETL+ | MAX1209ETL+G3U | AD9228 | ADS6123 | LTC2283CUP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Maxim Integrated | Maxim Integrated | Maxim Integrated | Analog Devices | Texas Instruments | Analog Devices |
| Package | TQFN-40 (6x6 mm) | TQFN-40 (6x6 mm) - same | TQFN-40 (6x6 mm) - same | TQFP-48 | QFN-48 | QFN-40 - same |
| Resolution | 12 bit | 12 bit | 12 bit | 12 bit | 12 bit | 12 bit |
| Sampling Rate | 80 Msps | 80 Msps | 80 Msps | 65 Msps | 80 Msps | 80 Msps |
| Supply Voltage | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.3 V | 3.0 V | 3.3 V | 3.0 V |
| Output Interface | Parallel CMOS | Parallel CMOS | Parallel CMOS | Parallel CMOS | LVDS | Parallel CMOS |
| Number of Channels | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 (dual) |
| Input Configuration | Fully Differential or Single-Ended | Fully Differential or Single-Ended | Fully Differential or Single-Ended | Differential | Differential | Differential |
Key Differentiators
- Single-channel 12-bit 80 Msps with parallel CMOS outputs in TQFN-40 (vs LTC2283CUP (dual-channel))
- Flexible single-ended or differential analog input (vs AD9228 (differential only))
- Industrial temperature screening in the standard +T catalog part (vs ADS6123)
Design Notes
Solder the exposed thermal pad to a continuous top-layer ground pour with at least nine thermal vias to the inner ground plane. The TQFN-40 package relies on the EP for both electrical ground and thermal conduction; missing this connection degrades thermal performance and injects noise into the analog front end. Place 10 uF bulk and 0.1 uF decoupling ceramics within 2 mm of each AVDD/OVDD pin pair.
Route the differential analog inputs (AIN+/AIN-) as a 100 ohm differential pair with matched length and continuous reference ground underneath. Keep digital output traces away from the analog input network and switch the OVDD supply from a separate low-noise LDO to avoid digital switching noise coupling into the analog core.
Do not drive the ADC clock with a long trace carrying another signal; the clock path must be a short, impedance-controlled route with a series damping resistor near the clock driver. Confirm that the input common-mode voltage is within the datasheet range - using a balun or transformer with center-tap biasing avoids common-mode drift that would otherwise compress the input dynamic range.
Compliance Information
RoHS and lead-free confirmed via Maxim product page. Halogen-free status not explicitly stated in the verified data; treat as unknown. Not AEC-Q100 qualified - select a Q1/automotive-grade Maxim ADC for automotive use.
