3.3V, 2.5Gbps Low-Power Laser Driver

The MAX3273 is a compact, low-power laser driver for applications up to 2.7Gbps. The device uses a single +3.3V supply and typically consumes 30mA. The bias and modulation current levels are programmed by external resistors. An automatic power-control (APC) loop is incorporated to maintain a constant average optical power over temperature and lifetime. The laser driver is fabricated using Maxim's in-house, second-generation SiGe process.

The MAX3273 accepts differential CML-compatible clock and data input signals. Inputs are self-biased to allow AC-coupling. An input data-retiming latch can be enabled to reject input jitter if a clock signal is available.

The driver can provide bias current up to 100mA and modulation current up to 60mAP-P with typical (20% to 80%) edge speeds of 59ps. A failure-monitor output is provided to indicate when the APC loop is unable to maintain average optical power. The MAX3273 is available in 4mm x 4mm, 24-pin QFN and thin QFN packages, as well as in die form.

Applications

* 2.5Gbps Optical Transmitters * Add/Drop Multiplexers * Digital Cross-Connects * SONET OC-48 and SDH STM-16 * Transmission Systems

* 30mA Power-Supply Current

* Single +3.3V Power Supply

* Up to 2.7Gbps (NRZ) Operation

* Automatic Average Power Control with Failure Monitor

* Programmable Modulation Current from 5mA to 60mA

* Programmable Bias Current from 1mA to 100mA

* Typical Fall Time of 59ps

* Selectable Data Retiming Latch

* Complies with ANSI, ITU, and Bellcore SDH/SONET Specifications