Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the MAX4888A/MAX4889A high-speed PCI Express(R) (PCIe(R)) passive switches capable of switching data at a signaling data rate of 5.0Gbps. These passive switches support PCIe 2.0 data-switching requirements, offer low power consumption, and feature a flow-through pin configuration for optimized PCB layout.
The MAX4888A is a dual single-pole/double-throw (2 x SPDT) switch ideally suited for switching two equivalent lanes (either Rx or Tx) of PCIe data. The equivalent half lanes can be either one source and two destinations or two sources and one destination. By handling Rx and Tx data in separate devices, the MAX4888A minimizes the effects of crosstalk. The MAX4889A quad switch offers twice the capacity, handling four equivalent lanes (Rx or Tx) of PCIe data. The MAX4888A and MAX4889A feature a single digital-control input (SEL) to switch signal paths. The parts are also designed to minimize power and skew, in essence, offering a zero delay switch. Although originally designed for PCIe, the MAX4888A/MAX4889A may be useful for other differential-signaling applications, where signal levels are centered around ground level, such as DisplayPort.
The MAX4888/MAX4889 are fully specified to operate from a single +3.0V to +3.6V power supply over the extended -40 degrees Celsius to +85 degrees Celsius temperature range. These devices also operate down to +1.65V. The MAX4888A is available in a 3.5mm x 5.5mm, 28-pin TQFN package, and the MAX4889A is available in a 3.5mm x 9.0mm, 42-pin TQFN package. Pricing starts at $1.75 (1000-up, FOB USA).
