Single-Chip VCSEL Driver and Limiting-Amplifier Solution for 8G Fibre Channel and 10G Ethernet

Maxim has introduced the MAX3798, a single-chip, VCSEL driver and limiting-amplifier solution targeted for SFP+ Fibre Channel and Ethernet applications. Fabricated using Maxim's MBIC3 integrated-circuit technology, this device delivers > 10Gbps performance, a wide range of receiver- and transmitter-programmable features, and only 320mW of power consumption. Packing the functions of two chips into one, the MAX3798 provides a low-cost, low-power solution for both Fibre Channel (1x/2x/4x/8x) and Ethernet 10GBASE-SR transmission systems, thus simplifying transceiver BOM for module manufacturers.

A 3-wire digital interface provides a wide range of programmable features to optimize performance. Programmable receive functions include data rate, LOS threshold, LOS squelch, LOS polarity, CML output level, signal path polarity, slew-rate control, deemphasis, and mode-select change time. Programmable transmit functions include modulation current, bias current, polarity, deemphasis, eye-crossing adjustment, and eye safety control.