General Description
The MAX2092 high-linearity analog variable-gain ampli fier
(VGA) is a monolithic SiGe BiCMOS attenuator/
amplifier/
error amplifier with an alarm circuit designed to interface
with 50I systems operating in the 700MHz to 2700MHz
frequency range. The device features a gain range of
+18.1dB to -22.3dB, a noise figure of 5.2dB, OIP3 linear-
ity of +32.5dBm, and a wide RF bandwidth. Each of these
features makes the device an ideal VGA for numerous
receiver and transmitter applications. When paired with
the MAX2091 or MAX2091B variable gain upconverter, a
complete 2-chip IF-RF signal conditioning solution is pos-
sible for microwave point-to-point transmitters.
The MAX2092 operates from a single +5V supply, and
is available in a compact 20-pin TQFN pack age (5mm
x 5mm) with an exposed pad. Electrical per formance is
guaranteed over the extended temperature range from
TC = -40NC to +95NC.
Applications
●Microwave Point-to-Point Receivers and Transmitters
●RF Variable-Gain Stages
●Temperature Compensation Circuits
●Cellular Applications
●WiMAX® Applications
●LTE Applications
●Fixed Broadband Wireless Access
●Wireless Local Loop
Benets and Features
●Wide Band Analog VGA Increases System
Performance
• 700MHz to 2700MHz RF Frequency Range
• High Linearity
• +32.5dBm OIP3
• +18.2dBm Output -1dB Compression Point
• 18.1dB Gain with 40.4dB Attenuation Range and
0.03dB Gain Variation Over 100MHz Bandwidth at
1835MHz
• 5.2dB Noise Figure (Includes Attenuator Insertion
Loss)
●Integrated Error Amplifier and Alarm Circuit Simplifies
ALC Operation
●Lowers Power Consumption with Power-Down
Capability
●Package with Exposed Pad Improves Heat
Dissipation and System Performance
Ordering Information appears at end of data sheet.
WiMAX is a registered certification mark and registered service
mark of WiMAX Forum.
19-6377; Rev 1; 7/15
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
VCC_RF, VCC_A ........................................................-0.3V to +6V
RF_OUT, RF_IN ........................................ -0.3V to (VCC + 0.3V)
R_BIAS, CTRL1, CTRL2,
PLVLSET, DET_VIN ... -0.3V to Minimum (VCC + 0.3V, +3.6V)
RF_IN Input Power ........................................................ +15dBm
RF_OUT Output Power .................................................. +23dBm
Continuous Power Dissipation (Note 1) .............................2.5W
Operating Case Temperature
Range (Note 2) ............................................... -40NC to +95NC
Maximum Junction Temperature .....................................+150NC
Storage Temperature Range ............................ -65NC to +150NC
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s) ................................+300NC
Soldering Temperature (reflow) .................................... +260NC
Junction-to-Ambient Thermal Resistance (qJA)
(Notes 3, 4) ................................................................. 32°C/W
Junction-to-Case Thermal Resistance (qJC)
(Notes 1, 4) ................................................................... 7°C/W
Absolute Maximum Ratings
Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings only, and functional operation
of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational sections of the specifications is not implied. Exposure to absolute maximum
rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
Package Thermal Characteristics
DC Electrical Characteristics
(Typical Application Circuit with VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, VGND = 0V, and TC = -40°C to +95°C. Typical values are at VCC = 5.5V and
TC = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 5)
Note 1: Based on junction temperature TJ = TC + (BJC x VCC x ICC). This formula can be used when the temperature of the
exposed pad is known while the device is soldered down to a PCB. See the Applications Information section for details.
The junction temperature must not exceed +150NC.
Note 2: TC is the temperature on the exposed pad of the package. TA is the ambient temperature of the device and PCB.
Note 3: Junction temperature TJ = TA + (qJA x VCC x ICC). This formula can be used when the ambient temperature of the PCB is
known. The junction temperature must not exceed +150NC.
Note 4: Package thermal resistances were obtained using the method described in JEDEC specification JESD51-7, using a four-layer
board. For detailed information on package thermal considerations, refer to www.maximintegrated.com/thermal-tutorial.
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Supply Voltage VCC 4.75 5.8 V
Total Supply Current IDC
Power down: CTRL1 = 0, CTRL2 = 0 2 3
mAVGA-only mode: CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0 80 90
ALC mode: CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 1 93 110
CTRL1/CTRL2 Logic-Low Input
Voltage VIL 0.8 V
CTRL1, CTRL2 Logic-High Input
Voltage VIH 2.2 V
Input Logic Current IIH, IIL -1 +1 µA
PLVLSET Input-Voltage Range VIN 0 2.5 V
DET_VIN Input-Voltage Range VIN 0 2.5 V
AC Electrical Characteristics
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set for maximum gain, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = 1835MHz, PRFIN = -16dBm
(CW), TC = -40°C to +95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at
TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V, PRF_IN = -16dBm, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0. Min/max specifications apply over supply,
process, and temperature, unless otherwise noted.) (Notes 5, 7)
Recommended AC Electrical Characteristics
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
RF Frequency fRF (Note 6) 700 2700 MHz
PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
Small-Signal Gain G
fRF = 974MHz 17.3
dBfRF = 1835MHz 18.1
fRF = 2200MHz 18.1
Gain vs. Temperature -0.007 dB/°C
Gain Flatness vs. Frequency
974MHz ±50MHz 0.22
dBP-P
1835MHz ±50MHz 0.03
1835MHz ±80MHz 0.03
1835MHz ±100MHz 0.03
2200MHz ±100MHz 0.1
Noise Figure NF
fRF = 974MHz 5.0
dBfRF = 1835MHz 5.2
fRF = 2200MHz 5.5
Total Attenuation Range
fRF = 974MHz 40.1
dBfRF = 1835MHz 40.4
fRF = 2200MHz 39.2
Output Second-Order Intercept
Point OIP2 PRFOUT = +2dBm/tone,
Df = 1MHz, f1+ f250 dBm
Output Third-Order Intercept
Point OIP3
PRFOUT =
+2dBm/tone,
Df = 1MHz
fRF = 974MHz 34.3
dBmfRF = 1835MHz 32.5
fRF = 2200MHz 31.4
Output -1dB Compression Point P-1dB (Note 8) 18.2 dBm
Second Harmonic PRFOUT = +5dBm 52 dBc
Third Harmonic PRFOUT = +5dBm 61 dBc
Input Return Loss 1835MHz ±50MHz 18 dB
Output Return Loss 1835MHz ±50MHz 23 dB
ALARM CIRCUIT (CTRL1 = 1 CTRL2 = 1)
Lower Alarm Threshold Input = DET_VIN 0.175 V
Upper Alarm Threshold Input = DET_VIN 2.25 V
Hysteresis 29 mV
Alarm Output Logic 1 Output = ALM 3.135 3.3 3.465 V
Alarm Output Logic 0 Output = ALM 0.4 V
AC Electrical Characteristics (continued)
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set for maximum gain, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = 1835MHz, PRFIN = -16dBm
(CW), TC = -40°C to +95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at
TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V, PRF_IN = -16dBm, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0. Min/max specifications apply over supply,
process, and temperature, unless otherwise noted.) (Notes 5, 7)
Note 5: Production tested at TC = +95°C. All other temperatures guaranteed by design and characterization.
Note 6: Recommended functional range, not production tested. Operation outside this range is possible, but with degraded
performance of some parameters.
Note 7: All limits include external component losses. Output measurements are taken at the RF port of the Typical Application
Circuit.
Note 8: It is advisable not to continuously operate the VGA RF-input above +12dBm.
Typical Operating Characteristics
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set to minimum attenuation, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = -16dBm, TC = -40°C to
+95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V,
PRF = -16dBm, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, unless otherwise noted.)
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
PARAMETER SYMBOL CONDITIONS MIN TYP MAX UNITS
ANALOG ATTENUATOR (CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0)
Minimum Attenuator Control
Voltage Input = PLVLSET 0.25 V
Maximum Attenuator Control
Voltage Input = PLVLSET 2.3 V
Average Gain-Control Slope VPLVLSET = 0.25V to 2.3V 19.4 dB/V
Maximum Gain-Control Slope VPLVLSET = 0 to 2.5V 27 dB/V
GAIN vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc01
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
GAIN (dB)
220017001200
16
18
20
14
700 2700
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
GAIN vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc02
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
GAIN (dB)
220017001200
16
18
20
14
700 2700
VCC = 4.75V, 5.00V, 5.50V, 5.80V
GAIN OVER VPLVLSET SETTING
vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc03
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
2.5V
1.5V
1.0V
0.5V
0V
2.0V
GAIN (dB)
220017001200
-5
-15
5
15
25
-25
700 2700
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set to minimum attenuation, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = -16dBm, TC = -40°C to
+95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V,
PRF = -16dBm, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
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GAIN vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc04
VPLVLSET (V)
GAIN (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-15
-5
5
15
25
-25
0 2.5
700MHz, 974MHz, 1835MHz, 2200MHz
2700MHz
S11 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc05
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
S11 (dB)
220017001200
-30
-20
-10
0
-40
700 2700
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
S11 vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc06
VPLVLSET (V)
S11 (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-20
-10
0
-30
0 2.5
2700MHz
700MHz
2200MHz
974MHz
1835MHz
S22 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc07
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
S22 (dB)
220017001200
-30
-20
-10
0
-40
700 2700
TC = +25°C
TC = -40°C TC = +95°C
S22 vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc08
VPLVLSET (V)
S22 (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-20
-10
0
-30
0 2.5
2700MHz
700MHz
2200MHz
974MHz
1835MHz
REVERSE-ISOLATION OVER VPLVLSET
SETTING vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc09
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
REVERSE-ISOLATION (dB)
220017001200
30
40
50
60
70
80
20
700 2700
VPLVLSET = 0V
VPLVLSET = 2.5V
GAIN vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc10
VPLVLSET (V)
GAIN (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-15
-5
5
15
25
-25
0 2.5
fRF = 1835MHz
TC = -40°C, +25°C, +95°C
GAIN vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc11
VPLVLSET (V)
GAIN (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-15
-5
5
15
25
-25
0 2.5
fRF = 974MHz
TC = -40°C, +25°C, +95°C
GAIN vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc12
VPLVLSET (V)
GAIN (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-15
-5
5
15
25
-25
0 2.5
fRF = 700MHz
TC = -40°C, +25°C, +95°C
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set to minimum attenuation, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = -16dBm, TC = -40°C to
+95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V,
PRF = -16dBm, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
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GAIN vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc13
VPLVLSET (V)
GAIN (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-15
-5
5
15
25
-25
0 2.5
fRF = 2200MHz
TC = -40°C, +25°C, +95°C
GAIN vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
MAX2092 toc14
VPLVLSET (V)
GAIN (dB)
2.01.51.00.5
-15
-5
5
15
25
-25
0 2.5
fRF = 2700MHz
TC = -40°C, +25°C, +95°C
NOISE FIGURE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc15
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOISE FIGURE (dB)
220017001200
4
5
6
7
8
3
700 2700
TC = +95°C
TC = +25°C
TC = -40°C
NOISE FIGURE vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc16
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
NOISE FIGURE (dB)
220017001200
4
5
6
7
8
3
700 2700
VCC = 4.75V, 5.00V, 5.50V, 5.80V
OUTPUT IP3 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc17
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
OUTPUT IP3 (dBm)
220017001200
30
35
40
25
700 2700
POUT = 2dBm/TONE
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
OUTPUT IP3 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc18
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
OUTPUT IP3 (dBm)
220017001200
30
35
40
25
700 2700
POUT = 2dBm/TONE
VCC = 5.00V
VCC = 5.50V
VCC = 5.80V
VCC = 4.75V
OUTPUT IP3 vs. V
PLVLSET
SETTING
(CONSTANT POUT)
MAX2092 toc19
VPLVLSET (V)
OUTPUT IP3 (dBm)
2.11.71.3
29
31
33
35
37
27
0.9 2.5
TC = +25°C LSB, USB
TC = -40°C LSB, USB
fRF = 1835MHz
POUT = 2dBm/TONE
TC = +95°C USB
TC = +95°C LSB
OUTPUT IP3 vs. V
PLVLSET
SETTING
(CONSTANT PIN)
MAX2092 toc20
VPLVLSET (V)
OUTPUT IP3 (dBm)
2.11.71.3
29
31
33
35
37
27
0.9 2.5
TC = -40°C LSB, USB fRF = 1835MHz
PIN = -6dBm/TONE
TC = +95°C USB
TC = +25°C LSB, USB
TC = +95°C LSB
OUTPUT P1dB vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc21
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
OUTPUT P1dB (dBm)
220017001200
17
18
19
20
15
16
700 2700
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
TC = +95°C
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set to minimum attenuation, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = -16dBm, TC = -40°C to
+95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V,
PRF = -16dBm, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
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OUTPUT P1dB vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc22
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
OUTPUT P1dB (dBm)
220017001200
17
18
19
20
15
16
700 2700
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.50V
VCC = 5.80V
VCC = 5.25V
VCC = 5.00V
2nd HARMONIC vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc23
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
2nd HARMONIC (dBc)
220017001200
45
55
65
35
700 2700
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
POUT = 5dBm
2nd HARMONIC vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc24
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
2nd HARMONIC (dBc)
220017001200700 2700
POUT = 5dBm
45
55
65
35
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.50V
VCC = 5.80V
VCC = 5.00V
2nd HARMONIC vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
(CONSTANT POUT)
MAX2092 toc25
VPLVLSET (V)
2nd HARMONIC (dBc)
2.11.71.30.9 2.5
fRF = 1835MHz
POUT = 5dBm
45
55
65
35
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
2nd HARMONIC vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
(CONSTANT PIN)
MAX2092 toc26
VPLVLSET (V)
2nd HARMONIC (dBc)
1.501.251.000.75 1.75
fRF = 1835MHz
PIN = -6dBm
60
80
90
40
50
70
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
3rd HARMONIC vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc27
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
3rd HARMONIC (dBc)
220017001200
50
60
70
80
40
700 2700
TC = +95°C
TC = +25°C
TC = -40°C
POUT = 5dBm
3rd HARMONIC vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc28
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
3rd HARMONIC (dBc)
220017001200
50
60
70
80
40
700 2700
VCC = 4.75V, 5.00V, 5.50V, 5.80V
POUT = 5dBm
3rd HARMONIC vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
(CONSTANT POUT)
MAX2092 toc29
VPLVLSET (V)
3rd HARMONIC (dBc)
2.11.71.3
50
60
70
80
40
0.9 2.5
fRF = 1835MHz
POUT = 5dBm
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
3rd HARMONIC vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
(CONSTANT PIN)
MAX2092 toc30
VPLVLSET (V)
3rd HARMONIC (dBc)
1.501.251.00
60
70
80
90
100
110
50
0.75 1.75
fRF = 1835MHz
PIN = -6dBm
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(Typical Application Circuit with analog attenuator set to minimum attenuation, VCC = 4.75V to 5.8V, fRF = -16dBm, TC = -40°C to
+95°C, and RF ports are connected to 50Ω sources and loads, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TC = +25°C, VCC = 5.5V,
PRF = -16dBm, CTRL1 = 1, CTRL2 = 0, VPLVLSET = 2.5V, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
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OIP2 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc31
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
OIP2 (dBm)
220017001200
45
55
65
35
700 2700
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
POUT = 2dBm/TONE
OIP2 vs. RF FREQUENCY
MAX2092 toc32
RF FREQUENCY (MHz)
OIP2 (dBm)
220017001200700 2700
POUT = 2dBm/TONE
45
55
65
35
VCC = 4.75V
VCC = 5.80V
VCC = 5.00V
VCC = 5.50V
OIP2 vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
(CONSTANT POUT)
MAX2092 toc33
VPLVLSET (V)
OIP2 (dBm)
2.11.71.30.9 2.5
fRF = 1835MHz
POUT = 2dBm/TONE
45
55
65
35
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
OIP2 vs. VPLVLSET SETTING
(CONSTANT PIN)
MAX2092 toc34
VPLVLSET (V)
OIP2 (dBm)
1.501.251.000.75 1.75
fRF = 1835MHz
PIN = -6dBm/TONE
45
55
65
35
TC = +95°C
TC = -40°C
TC = +25°C
Pin Description
Pin Conguration
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
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PIN NAME FUNCTION
1 CTRL1 Control-Mode Logic Input 1 (3.3V Logic)
2 R_BIAS Bias Resistor Setting Input. Connect a resistor from this pin to ground.
3 VCC_A Power-Supply Input. Bypass to ground with a 0.01FF capacitor as close as possible to the pin.
4 PLVLSET Output-Power Level-Setting DC Input or Analog Attenuator Control Voltage
5ALM Alarm Logic Output
6 AMP_OUT Error-Amplifier Output
7, 13–19 GND Ground
8 DET_VIN Error-Amplifier Input Voltage from an External Detector
9 GND Do not directly connect to EP. Connect to RF ground plane with a short trace using a
separate via hole.
10 CTRL2 Control-Mode Logic Input 2 (3.3V Logic)
11 VCC_RF Driver-Amplifier Supply Voltage Input. Bypass to ground with a 0.01FF capacitor as close as
possible to the pin.
12 RF_OUT Driver-Amplifier Output (50I). Requires a DC-blocking capacitor.
20 RF_IN Attenuator Input (50I). Requires a DC-blocking capacitor.
— EP
Exposed Pad. Internally connected to GND. Solder the exposed pad to a PCB pad that uses
multiple ground vias to provide heat transfer out of the device into the PCB ground planes. These
multiple via grounds are also required to achieve the noted RF performance. See the Layout
Considerations section.
MAX2092
TQFN
TOP VIEW
19
20 +
18
17
7
6
8
R_BIAS
PLVLSET
ALM
9
CTRL1
GND
RF_OUT
VCC_RF
GND
12
GND
45
15 14 12 11
GND
RF_IN
GND
DET_VIN
GND
AMP_OUT
VCC_A GND
3
13
GND
16 10 CTRL2
GND
Detailed Description
The MAX2092 is a high-linearity analog VGA designed to
interface with 50Ω systems operating in the 700MHz to
2700MHz frequency range. The analog attenuator is con-
trolled by an external analog control voltage. The device
features a gain range of 18.1dB to -22.3dB, a noise figure
of 5.2dB, OIP3 linearity of +32.5dBm, and a wide RF
bandwidth. Each of these features makes the device an
ideal VGA for numerous receiver and transmitter applica-
tions. In addition, the device operates from a single +5V
supply.
Applications Information
Modes of Operation
The device can operate in several different modes, as
summarized in Table 1.
VGA-Only Mode Operation
VGA-only mode operation consists of setting CTRL1 =
logic 1 and CTRL2 = logic 0, and applying a DC value to
PLVLSET between 0V and 2.5V DC to manually adjust the
attenuation, and subsequently the RF_OUT power to any
desired value. The output power at RF_OUT increases at
a rate of 19.4dB/V as PLVLSET is increased. In VGA-only
mode, operation components R5, R6, R7, and C8–C11 can
be left unpopulated, and CTRL2 needs to be tied directly
to ground.
Closed-ALC Mode Operation
Closed-ALC mode operation consists of setting CTRL1
= CTRL2 = logic 1. The voltage on PLVLSET is set
externally to adjust output power from -20dBm to +5dBm
when input power is in the recommended power range,
typically -6dBm. See the Typical Application Circuit. As
PLVLSET increases, the output power also increases at a
rate set by the external detector chosen. Ideally, a detec-
tor with an output voltage range of 0.1V DC to 2.4V DC is
recommended, but the device operates with any detec-
tor whose output ranges from 0V DC to 2.5V DC (output
coupler at RF_OUT already taken into account). An error
amplifier compares the DET_VIN voltage to PLVLSET,
and drives the attenuator in servo fashion until the error-
amplifier’s differential input error voltage is near zero. The
servo loop acts to maintain a regulated output power level
over an input power range depending on the setting of
PLVLSET.
When used in conjunction with the MAX2091 IF VGA,
it is recommended that an external voltage of 1.65V be
applied to the IF PLVLSET. This ensures that a nominal
RF signal level of approximately -3dBm is output from the
MAX2091. With this specific level setting, the complete
MAX2091 + MAX2092 cascade yields a constant RF
output power of -20.5dBm to +5dBm (depending on the
setting of RF PLVLSET) over an IF input power range
of -24dBm to +1dBm. See Figure 1 for details. Contact
the factory for additional details surrounding Maxim’s
MAX2091 + MAX2092 reference design.
Control Inputs
The device has three control inputs: CTRL1, CTRL2,
and PLVLSET. VCC must be present before voltages are
applied to these pins. In cases where this is not possible,
a 200Ω resistor must be included in series with the control
inputs to limit on-chip ESD diode conduction. CTRL1 and
CTRL2 are 3V logic controls, and cannot be driven from
5V logic. In the case where no logic control is available
and a logic high is required, a voltage divider can be used
from the 5V
VCC
supply to produce the 3V logic-high.
Alarm Operation
The alarm remains in logic-high state when the voltage on
DET_VIN (pin 8) is within the 0.175V to 2.25V range. The
alarm threshold amount is an internal fixed value to the
device with a nominal hysteresis of approximately 29mV.
Table 1. Control Mode Logic
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
CTRL1 CTRL2 VGA ALC LOOP ALARM FUNCTIONAL DESCRIPTION
0 0 Disabled Disabled Disabled Power-Down Mode
1 0 Enabled Disabled Disabled VGA-Only Mode
1 1 Enabled Enabled Enabled Closed ALC Mode. ALC loop locks DET_VIN to
PLVLSET.
0 1 — — — Factory Test Mode (Do Not Use)
DET_VIN
In closed ALC-loop mode, avoid directly loading pins
AMP_OUT and DET_VIN with capacitance in excess of
10pF on each pin. In closed ALC-loop mode, this can
cause ringing or instability in the power-control loop. As
in any closed-loop system, one must be careful not to load
DET_VIN or AMP_OUT with additional external circuitry.
Therefore, it is suggested that in the closed-loop ALC
mode, no additional connections be made to DET_VIN
or AMP_OUT. AMP_OUT and DET_VIN support a total
trace routing capacitance of 10pF or less. Connect pin
9 to the RF ground plane with a via separated from
the exposed pad (EP) ground connection. Pin 9 must
not connect to the exposed pad or share a ground with
any other component, and must connect directly to the
solid ground plane below. As a reference, refer to the
MAX2092EVKIT+ PCB artwork.
Layout Considerations
The pin configuration of the MAX2092 is optimized to
facilitate a very compact physical layout of the device
and its associated discrete components. The exposed
pad of the device’s 20-pin TQFN-EP package provides a
low thermal-resistance path to the die. It is important that
the PCB on which the device is mounted be designed to
conduct heat from the EP. In addition, provide the EP with
a low inductance path to electrical ground. The EP MUST
be soldered to a ground plane on the PCB, either directly
or through an array of plated via holes. Pin 9 must not
connect to the exposed pad or share a ground with any
other component and must connect directly to the solid
ground plane below.
Figure 1. Cascaded IF-RF Lineup Using the MAX2091 + MAX2092
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
40dB
MAX2091
2.5dB PAD
ALARM
THRESHOLD
IF
ALARM
OUT
RF
ALARM
OUT
LO
38dB
IF_IN
-24dBm
TO +1dBm
IF PLVLSET
(ANALOG CONTROL)
INPUT
FROM
EXTERNAL
DETECTOR
RF PLVLSET
(ANALOG CONTROL)
INPUT
FROM EXTERNAL
DETECTOR
RF_OUT
-20.5dBm
TO +5dBm
MAX2092
ALARM
THRESHOLDS
Table 2. Typical Application Circuit Component Values
Note: The checkmarks in the Mode of Operation columns indicate that the component is used within each respective application.
*C14 and R11 form an optional lowpass network to filter out potential noise from the external PLVLSET control source.
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
COMPONENT
MODE OF OPERATION
VALUE SIZE VENDOR DESCRIPTION
VGA ONLY CLOSED
ALC
C1 ü ü 12pF 0402 Murata C0G dielectric
C2, C3 ü ü 0.01FF0402 Murata X7R dielectric
C5 ü ü 8.2pF 0402 Murata C0G dielectric
C8 — ü100nF 0603 Murata X7R dielectric
C9 — ü680pF 0402 Murata C0G dielectric
C10 — ü120pF 0402 Murata C0G dielectric
C11 —ü120pF 0402 Murata C0G dielectric
C14* — — Do not install 0402 — —
R1 ü ü 1.78kI0402 Panasonic 1% tolerance
R5 — ü200I0402 Panasonic 1% tolerance
R6 — ü51I0402 Panasonic 5% tolerance
R7 — ü10kI0402 Panasonic 5% tolerance
R11* ü ü 0I0402 Panasonic 5% tolerance
U1 ü ü —20-pin TQFN
(5mm x 5mm) Maxim MAX2092ETP+
Typical Application Circuit
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
PLVLSET
VCC_A
ALM
R_BIAS
RF_OUT
RF_OUT
EP
DET_VIN
CTRL2
GND*
GND
CTRL2
AMP_OUT
CTRL1
RF_IN
RF_IN
GND
GND
GND
GND
MAX2092
GND
GND
GND
VCC_RF
VCC
VLOW VHIGH
C9
C11
*SEE PIN DESCRIPTION
C14
C2
C1
R11
R1
C8
C10
C3
C5
R5
R6
DET_IN
R7
VCC
19
20
+
18
17
7
6
8
9
12 45
15 14 12 11
3
13
16 10
Ordering Information
+Denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package.
*EP = Exposed pad.
*T = Tape and reel.
Package Information
For the latest package outline information and land patterns (foot-
prints), go to www.maximintegrated.com/packages. Note that
a “+”, “#”, or “-” in the package code indicates RoHS status only.
Package drawings may show a different suffix character, but the
drawing pertains to the package regardless of RoHS status.
Chip Information
PROCESS: SiGe BiCMOS
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MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
PART TEMP RANGE PIN-PACKAGE
MAX2092ETP+ -40NC to +95NC20 TQFN-EP*
MAX2092ETP+T -40NC to +95NC20 TQFN-EP*
PACKAGE
TYPE
PACKAGE
CODE
OUTLINE
NO.
LAND
PATTERN NO.
20 TQFN T2055+3 21-0140 90-0008
Revision History
Maxim Integrated cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim Integrated product. No circuit patent licenses
are implied. Maxim Integrated reserves the right to change the circuitry and specications without notice at any time. The parametric values (min and max limits)
shown in the Electrical Characteristics table are guaranteed. Other parametric values quoted in this data sheet are provided for guidance.
Maxim Integrated and the Maxim Integrated logo are trademarks of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
MAX2092 700MHz to 2700MHz Analog VGA with Threshold
Alarm Circuit and Error Amplier for Level Control
© 2015 Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
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REVISION
NUMBER
REVISION
DATE DESCRIPTION PAGES
CHANGED
0 6/12 Initial release —
1 7/15 Removed military reference from Applications and updated the Benefits and Features
section 1
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