The external autozero capacitor (C
AZ
), in parallel with
internal capacitance (C
INT
), determines the time con-
stant of the DC offset correction loop. With C
AZ
= 0.1µF
(recommended), the -3dB frequency cutoff of the signal
path is typically 0.5kHz.
Power Detector and LOS Indicators
The external resistor R
TH
sets the gain of the first limit-
ing stage. This gain setting controls the threshold at
which the power detector indicates an LOS condition.
Power detection is accomplished by rectifying and low-
pass filtering the data signal, then comparing it to the
programmed threshold voltage. A hysteresis of 2dB
prevents the LOS output from chattering when the input
signal is near the threshold.
PECL Output Buffer
The data outputs (DOUT+, DOUT-) and the loss-of-sig-
nal outputs (LOS+, LOS-) are PECL outputs. The equiv-
alent PECL output circuit is shown in Figure 4.
Applications Information
Programming LOS Assert/Deassert Levels
The appropriate value of R
TH
is determined by using
the Loss-Of-Signal Threshold vs. R
TH
graph in the
Typical Operating Characteristics.
LOS Time Constant
The lowpass filter of the power detector comprises a
20kΩ on-chip resistor (R
SD
) and an external capacitor
(C
SD
). The C
SD
capacitor value determines the power-
detector time constant, which determines the LOS
assert/deassert time. With C
SD
= 1nF the assert/
deassert time is in the range of 2.3µs to 80µs. This pro-
vides a long enough time constant to avoid false trig-
gering due to variations in mark density.
Disable Function
When the DIS input is forced high, the disable function
is enabled, which holds DOUT+ low and DOUT- high.
The disable function is used to prevent the data outputs
from toggling due to noise when no signal is present.
The LOS output can be connected to the DIS input for
automatic squelch.
PECL Output Terminations
The proper termination for a PECL output is 50Ω to
(V
CC
- 2V), but other standard termination techniques
can be used. For more information on PECL termina-
tions and how to interface with other logic families, refer
to Maxim Application Note HFAN-01.0: Introduction to
LVDS, PECL, and CML.
Layout Considerations
For best performance, use good high-frequency layout
techniques. Filter power supplies, keep ground con-
nections short, and use multiple vias where possible.
Power-supply decoupling should be placed close to
the V
CC
pins. Minimize the distance from the preampli-
fier and use controlled-impedance transmission lines to
interface with the outputs when possible.
MAX3645
+2.97V to +5.5V, 125Mbps to 200Mbps Limiting
Amplifier with Loss-of-Signal Detector
_______________________________________________________________________________________ 7
