EVALUATION KIT AVAILABLE
MAX9930–MAX9933
General Description
The MAX9930–MAX9933 low-cost, low-power logarithmic
amplifiers are designed to control RF power amplifiers
(PA) and transimpedance amplifiers (TIA), and to detect
RF power levels. These devices are designed to operate
in the 2MHz to 1.6GHz frequency range. A typical dynamic range of 45dB makes this family of logarithmic amplifiers useful in a variety of wireless and GPON fiber video
applications such as transmitter power measurement, and
RSSI for terminal devices. Logarithmic amplifiers provide
much wider measurement range and superior accuracy to
controllers based on diode detectors. Excellent temperature stability is achieved over the full operating range of
-40°C to +85°C.
The choice of three different input voltage ranges eliminates the need for external attenuators, thus simplifying
PA control-loop design. The logarithmic amplifier is a
voltage-measuring device with a typical signal range of
-58dBV to -13dBV for the MAX9930/MAX9933, -48dBV
to -3dBV for the MAX9931, and -43dBV to +2dBV for the
MAX9932.
The MAX9930–MAX9933 require an external coupling
capacitor in series with the RF input port. These devices
feature a power-on delay when coming out of shutdown,
holding OUT low for approximately 2.5μs to ensure
glitch-free controller output.
The MAX9930–MAX9933 family is available in an 8-pin
μMAX® package. These devices consume 7mA with a
5V supply, and when powered down, the typical shutdown current is 13μA.
Applications
●●
●●
●●
●●
●●
RSSI for Fiber Modules, GPON-CATV Triplexors
Low-Frequency RF OOK and ASK Applications
Transmitter Power Measurement and Control
TSI for Wireless Terminal Devices
Cellular Handsets (TDMA, CDMA, GPRS, GSM)
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Features
●● Complete RF-Detecting PA Controllers
(MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932)
●● Complete RF Detector (MAX9933)
●● Variety of Input Ranges
MAX9930/MAX9933: -58dBV to -13dBV
(-45dBm to 0dBm for 50Ω Termination)
MAX9931: -48dBV to -3dBV
(-35dBm to +10dBm for 50Ω Termination)
MAX9932: -43dBV to +2dBV
(-30dBm to +15dBm for 50Ω Termination)
●● 2MHz to 1.6GHz Frequency Range
●● Temperature Stable Linear-in-dB Response
●● Fast Response: 70ns 10dB Step
●● 10mA Output Sourcing Capability
●● Low Power: 17mW at 3V (typ)
●● 13μA (typ) Shutdown Current
●● Available in a Small 8-Pin μMAX Package
Ordering Information
PART
TEMP RANGE
PIN-PACKAGE
MAX9930EUA+T
-40°C to +85°C
8 µMAX
MAX9931EUA+T
-40°C to +85°C
8 µMAX
MAX9932EUA+T
-40°C to +85°C
8 µMAX
MAX9933EUA+T
-40°C to +85°C
8 µMAX
MAX9933BGUA+T
-40°C to +105°C
8 µMAX
+Denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package.
T = Tape and reel.
Pin Configurations
TOP VIEW
RFIN 1
SHDN 2
SET 3
Block Diagram appears at end of data sheet.
μMAX is a registered trademark of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
19-0859; Rev 2; 3/15
+
MAX9930
MAX9931
MAX9932
CLPF 4
µMAX
8 VCC
RFIN 1
7 OUT
SHDN 2
6 N.C.
GND 3
5 GND
CLPF 4
+
8 VCC
MAX9933
MAX9933B
7 OUT
6 N.C.
5 GND
µMAX
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Absolute Maximum Ratings
(Voltages referenced to GND.)
VCC...........................................................................-0.3V to +6V
OUT, SET, SHDN, CLPF........................... -0.3V to (VCC + 0.3V)
RFIN
MAX9930/MAX9933......................................................+6dBm
MAX9931.....................................................................+16dBm
MAX9932.....................................................................+19dBm
Equivalent Voltage
MAX9930/MAX9933.................................................0.45VRMS
MAX9931....................................................................1.4VRMS
MAX9932....................................................................2.0VRMS
OUT Short Circuit to GND..........................................Continuous
Continuous Power Dissipation (TA = +70°C)
8-Pin μMAX (derate 4.5mW/°C above +70°C).............362mW
Operating Temperature Range............................ -40°C to +85°C
Storage Temperature Range............................. -65°C to +150°C
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s).................................. +300°C
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.
DC Electrical Characteristics
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = 1.8V, TA = -40°C to +85°C, CCLPF = 100nF, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA = +25°C.) (Notes 1 and 6)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
UNITS
5.25
V
12
mA
Supply Voltage
VCC
Supply Current
ICC
VCC = 5.25V
7
Shutdown Supply Current
ICC
SHDN = 0.8V, VCC = 5V
13
µA
Shutdown Output Voltage
VOUT
SHDN = 0.8V
1
mV
Logic-High Threshold Voltage
VH
Logic-Low Threshold Voltage
VL
SHDN Input Current
ISHDN
2.70
MAX
1.8
V
0.8
SHDN = 3V
SHDN = 0V
5
-1
-0.01
2.65
2.75
30
V
µA
MAIN OUTPUT (MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932)
Voltage Range
VOUT
Output-Referred Noise
Small-Signal Bandwidth
BW
Slew Rate
High, ISOURCE = 10mA
Low, ISINK = 350µA
V
0.15
From CLPF
8
nV/√Hz
From CLPF
20
MHz
VOUT = 0.2V to 2.6V from CLPF
8
V/µs
SET INPUT (MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932)
Voltage Range (Note 2)
Input Resistance
VSET
Corresponding to central 40dB span
RIN
Slew Rate (Note 3)
0.35
1.45
V
30
MΩ
16
V/µs
DETECTOR OUTPUT (MAX9933/MAX9933B)
Voltage Range
Small-Signal Bandwidth
Slew Rate
www.maximintegrated.com
VOUT
BW
RFIN = 0dBm
1.45
RFIN = -45dBm
0.36
CCLPF = 150pF
4.5
MHz
5
V/µs
VOUT = 0.36V to 1.45V, CCLPF = 150pF
V
Maxim Integrated │ 2
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
AC Electrical Characteristics
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = 1.8V, fRF = 2MHz to 1.6GHz, TA = -40°C to +85°C, CCLPF = 100nF, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are
at TA = +25°C.) (Notes 1 and 6)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
RF Input Frequency Range
fRF
RF Input Voltage Range
(Note 4)
VRF
Equivalent Power Range
(50Ω Termination) (Note 4)
PRF
CONDITIONS
MAX
UNITS
2
1600
MHz
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-58
-13
MAX9931
-48
-3
MAX9932
-43
+2
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-45
0
MAX9931
-35
+10
MAX9932
-30
+15
fRF = 2MHz, TA = +25°C
25
fRF = 2MHz
Logarithmic Slope
VS
MIN
24
27
30
25.5
27.5
fRF = 900MHz
22.5
25.5
28.5
fRF = 2MHz
fRF = 900MHz,
TA = +25°C
fRF = 900MHz
fRF = 1600MHz
dBV
dBm
29
23.5
fRF = 2MHz,
TA = +25°C
PX
27
fRF = 900MHz, TA = +25°C
fRF = 1600MHz
Logarithmic Intercept
TYP
mV/dB
27
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-61
-56
-52
MAX9931
-51
-46
-42
MAX9932
-46
-41
-37
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-63
-56
-50
MAX9931
-53
-46
-40
MAX9932
-48
-41
-35
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-62
-59
-53
MAX9931
-53
-50
-44
MAX9932
-49
-45
-40
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-64
-59
-51
MAX9931
-55
-50
-42
MAX9932
-51
-45
-38
MAX9930/MAX9933/MAX9933B
-62
MAX9931
-52
MAX9932
-47
dBm
RF INPUT INTERFACE
DC Resistance
RDC
Connected to VCC
Inband Capacitance
CIB
Internally DC-coupled (Note 5)
2
kΩ
0.5
pF
Note 1: All devices are 100% production tested at TA = +25°C and are guaranteed by design for TA = -40°C to +85°C as specified.
Note 2: Typical value only, set-point input voltage range determined by logarithmic slope and logarithmic intercept.
Note 3: Set-point slew rate is the rate at which the reference level voltage, applied to the inverting input of the gm stage, responds
to a voltage step at the SET pin (see Figure 1).
Note 4: Typical min/max range for detector.
Note 5: Pin capacitance to ground.
Note 6: MAX9933B is 100% production tested at TA = +25°C and is guaranteed by design for TA = -40°C to +105°C as specified.
www.maximintegrated.com
Maxim Integrated │ 3
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Typical Operating Characteristics
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = VCC, TA = +25°C, all log conformance plots are normalized to their respective temperatures, TA = +25°C, unless
otherwise noted.)
900MHz
0.8
50MHz
0.6
2MHz
0.4
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
0
1.0
0
-3
0.4
TA = +85°C
-3
-60
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
0.2
10
-1
TA = -40°C
-60
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
INPUT POWER (dBm)
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9930
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 50MHz
MAX9930
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 900MHz
MAX9930
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 1.6GHz
0
0.8
0.6
TA = +25°C
0.4
TA = +85°C
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
1.6
3
1.6
3
2
1.4
2
1.4
2
1
1.2
1
1.2
1
1.0
0
1.0
0
-1
TA = -40°C
0
10
MAX9930 toc06
0.8
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
TA = +25°C
TA = +85°C
-60
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
TA = -40°C
-1
-2
0.6
TA = +25°C
-2
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
-3
TA = +85°C
-60
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9930
LOG SLOPE vs. FREQUENCY
MAX9930
LOG SLOPE vs. VCC
MAX9930
LOG INTERCEPT vs. FREQUENCY
24
23
TA = +85°C
300
600
2MHz
27
1.6GHz
26
25
50MHz
24
900MHz
23
900
1200
FREQUENCY (MHz)
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1500
1800
22
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
VCC (V)
10
MAX9930 toc09
28
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
TA = +25°C
-60
TA = +25°C
LOG INTERCEPT (dBm)
MAX9930 toc07
26
TA = -40°C
29
4
0.8
-1
TA = -40°C
INPUT POWER (dBm)
27
-4
1.8
SET (V)
1.0
MAX9930 toc05
10
4
SET (V)
1.2
0
1
-2
1.4
21
1.2
TA = +25°C
3
22
2
0.6
1.6
25
1.4
-2
1.8
-60
3
0.8
4
0.2
1.6GHz
1.6
-1
-4
10
MAX9930 toc04
1.8
SET (V)
-50
1
ERROR (dB)
-60
50MHz
MAX9930 toc08
0.2
2
900MHz
4
-62
TA = +85°C
-64
-66
TA = -40°C
4.5
5.0
5.5
-68
0
400
800
1200
ERROR (dB)
1.0
ERROR (dB)
1.2
2MHz
MAX9930 toc03
1600
FREQUENCY (MHz)
Maxim Integrated │ 4
-4
ERROR (dB)
1.6GHz
ERROR (dB)
SET (V)
1.4
3
MAX9930
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 2MHz
1.8
SET (V)
1.6
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
4
MAX9930 toc01
1.8
MAX9930
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. INPUT POWER
MAX9930 toc02
MAX9930
SET vs. INPUT POWER
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = VCC, TA = +25°C, all log conformance plots are normalized to their respective temperatures, TA = +25°C, unless
otherwise noted.)
-0.1
-67
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
1.2
1.0
2MHz
900MHz
50MHz
0.6
4.5
5.0
-0.6
5.5
0.4
-50
-25
0
25
50
75
0.2
100
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
VCC (V)
TEMPERATURE (°C)
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9931
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. INPUT POWER
MAX9931
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 2MHz
MAX9931
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 50MHz
0
1.6GHz
1.6
3
1.6
3
1.4
2
1.4
2
1.2
1
1.2
1
1.0
0
1.0
0
0.8
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
TA = +85°C
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
20
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
-2
TA = +25°C
-3
TA = +85°C
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9931
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 1.6GHz
MAX9931
LOG SLOPE vs. FREQUENCY
1.6
3
1.4
2
1.4
2
1.2
1
1.2
1
1.0
0
1.0
0
0.8
-1
TA = -40°C
0.6
TA = +25°C
0.4
TA = +85°C
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
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10
20
SET (V)
3
ERROR (dB)
1.6
0.8
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
-1
TA = -40°C
-3
TA = +85°C
-40
-30
-20
-10
TA = +85°C
28
27
TA = +25°C
26
25
-2
TA = +25°C
-50
29
4
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
10
20
-4
MAX9930 toc18
MAX9930 toc17
20
10
INPUT POWER (dBm)
1.8
-50
-1
MAX9931
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 900MHz
4
4
TA = -40°C
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9930 toc16
1.8
0.2
20
TA = +25°C
0.8
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
-50
-1
TA = -40°C
ERROR (dB)
-1
MAX9930 toc15
1.8
SET (V)
SET (V)
50MHz
20
4
ERROR (dB)
900MHz
1
MAX9930 toc14
1.8
MAX9930 toc13
2MHz
2
0.2
1.6GHz
0.8
-0.5
3
ERROR (dB)
-0.3
-0.4
1.6GHz
-69
SET (V)
-0.2
TA = -40°C
24
23
0
300
600
900
1200
1500
1800
FREQUENCY (MHz)
Maxim Integrated │ 5
-4
ERROR (dB)
900MHz
-65
-4
1.6
SET (V)
50MHz
-63
4
1.8
1.4
-61
-71
INPUT POWER = -22dBm
fRF = 50MHz
MAX9931
SET vs. INPUT POWER
MAX9930 toc12
2MHz
ERROR (dB)
LOG INTERCEPT (dBm)
-59
0
MAX9930 toc10
-57
MAX9930
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. TEMPERATURE
MAX9930 toc11
MAX9930
LOG INTERCEPT vs. VCC
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = VCC, TA = +25°C, all log conformance plots are normalized to their respective temperatures, TA = +25°C, unless
otherwise noted.)
1.6GHz
26
25
24
50MHz
-50
TA = +25°C
-52
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
-54
5.5
400
0
800
1.6GHz
-58
1200
-62
1600
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
MAX9932
SET vs. INPUT POWER
MAX9932
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. INPUT POWER
1.8
1.6
-0.1
1.2
1.0
50MHz
900MHz
2MHz
0.6
-0.3
-25
0
25
50
75
1
2MHz
0
-1
1.6GHz
-3
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
-4
20
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
INPUT POWER (dBm)
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9932
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 2MHz
MAX9932
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 50MHz
MAX9932
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 900MHz
4
1.8
3
1.6
0
TA = -40°C
0.8
0.6
TA = +85°C
0.4
-30
-20
-10
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
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10
20
1.8
20
MAX9930 toc27
4
3
1.6
3
1.4
TA = +25°C
2
1.4
2
1.2
TA = -40°C
1
1.2
1
1.0
0
1.0
0
0.8
-1
-2
0.6
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
-4
0.2
-1
TA = +25°C
4
SET (V)
1
1.0
SET (V)
1.2
ERROR (dB)
2
1.4
MAX9930 toc26
TA = +85°C
ERROR (dB)
1.6
-40
900MHz
TEMPERATURE (°C)
MAX9930 toc25
1.8
0.2
100
2
-2
0.4
-50
50MHz
3
1.6GHz
0.8
-0.2
4
ERROR (dB)
INPUT POWER = -12dBm
fRF = 50MHz
MAX9930 toc24
MAX9931
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. TEMPERATURE
SET (V)
ERROR (dB)
-56
VCC (V)
1.4
SET (V)
50MHz
FREQUENCY (MHz)
0
0.2
900MHz
-54
VCC (V)
0.1
-0.4
-52
-60
MAX9930 toc23
0.2
TA = +85°C
900MHz
MAX9930 toc22
22
TA = -40°C
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
INPUT POWER (dBm)
10
20
TA = +85°C
0.8
-1
TA = +25°C
-2
-3
TA = -40°C
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
20
INPUT POWER (dBm)
Maxim Integrated │ 6
-4
ERROR (dB)
23
-48
2MHz
-50
LOG INTERCEPT (mV/dB)
LOG INTERCEPT (dBm)
2MHz
27
MAX9931
LOG INTERCEPT vs. VCC
-48
MAX9930 toc20
28
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
-46
MAX9930 toc19
29
MAX9931
LOG INTERCEPT vs. FREQUENCY
MAX9930 toc21
MAX9931
LOG SLOPE vs. VCC
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = VCC, TA = +25°C, all log conformance plots are normalized to their respective temperatures, TA = +25°C, unless
otherwise noted.)
1.2
1
1.0
0
0.8
-1
TA = +85°C
-30
-20
-10
0
10
20
-4
TA = +25°C
26
25
23
MAX9930 toc30
900MHz
23
0
300
600
900
1200
1500
22
1800
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
MAX9932
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. TEMPERATURE
-43
TA = +85°C
TA = +25°C
-46
400
50MHz
-45
-47
1200
1.6GHz
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
MAX9933
OUT vs. INPUT POWER
MAX9933
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. INPUT POWER
1.6GHz
1.4
1.0
900MHz
50MHz
2MHz
0.6
0.4
-40
-30
-20
-10
INPUT POWER (dBm)
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0
10
-0.5
-50
-25
0
25
50
75
100
TEMPERATURE (°C)
2MHz
3
ERROR (dB)
1.2
-50
2.5
VCC (V)
1.6
-0.2
-0.4
FREQUENCY (MHz)
4
-0.1
-0.3
-51
-55
1600
2MHz
900MHz
-49
INPUT POWER = -10dBm
fRF = 50MHz
0
MAX9933B
OUTPUT AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 2MHz
toc36
1.8
4
1.6
3
2
900MHz
1.4
2
1
50MHz
1.2
1
1
0
OUT (V)
1.8
800
MAX9930 toc34
0
0.1
ERROR (dB)
MAX9930 toc31
-41
MAX9930 toc33
MAX9932
LOG INTERCEPT vs. VCC
-53
OUT (V)
24
TA = -40°C
MAX9932
LOG INTERCEPT vs. FREQUENCY
TA = -40°C
-60
50MHz
25
VCC (V)
-44
0.2
1.6GHz
26
FREQUENCY (MHz)
-42
0.8
2MHz
27
INPUT POWER (dBm)
-40
-48
28
MAX9930 toc32
-40
27
24
-3
TA = -40°C
29
MAX9930 toc35
0.2
TA = +85°C
-2
TA = +25°C
0.4
28
MAX9932
LOG SLOPE vs. VCC
0
-1
0.8
1.6GHz
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-4
-60
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
INPUT POWER (dBm)
0
10
0.2
-1
TA = +105°C
-2
TA = +85°C
TA = +25°C
TA = -40°C
-60
-50
-40
-30
-20
-10
-3
0
10
-4
INPUT POWER (dBm)
Maxim Integrated │ 7
ERROR (dB)
2
ERROR (dB)
1.4
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
3
29
LOG INTERCEPT (dBm)
SET (V)
1.6
0.6
LOG INTERCEPT (dBm)
4
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
MAX9930 toc28
1.8
MAX9932
LOG SLOPE vs. FREQUENCY
MAX9930 toc29
MAX9932
SET AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 1.6GHz
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = VCC, TA = +25°C, all log conformance plots are normalized to their respective temperatures, TA = +25°C, unless
otherwise noted.)
1.6
3
1.4
2
1.4
2
1.4
2
1.2
1
1.2
1
1.2
1
1
0
-40
-30
-20
-10
0
10
0.6
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
TA = +25°C
TA = -40°C
-60
-50
-40
INPUT POWER (dBm)
26
TA = +25°C
25
TA = -40°C
24
0
10
27
-2
0.6
-3
0.4
-4
0.2
50MHz
25
900MHz
2MHz
300
600
900
1200
1500
24
22
1800
2MHz
3.5
4.0
4.5
5.0
0
-0.1
-0.2
-64
1.6GHz
3.0
3.5
4.0
10
4.5
VCC (V)
www.maximintegrated.com
5.0
5.5
-50
-25
0
25
50
75
TEMPERATURE (°C)
-4
toc42
-60
TA = +85°C
TA = +105°C
0
300
600
900
1200
1500
1800
SUPPLY CURRENT
vs. SHDN VOLTAGE
VCC = 5.25V
6
5
4
3
2
1
0
-0.3
2.5
0
TA = +25°C
7
900MHz
-62
-10
-58
8
INPUT POWER = -22dBm
fRF = 50MHz
0.1
-20
FREQUENCY (MHz)
toc44
0.2
ERROR (dB)
50MHz
-60
-30
TA = -40°C
5.5
-56
-58
-40
-56
MAX9933B
LOG CONFORMANCE vs. TEMPERATURE
MAX9930 toc43
-54
-50
MAX9933B
LOG INTERCEPT vs. FREQUENCY
VCC (V)
MAX9933
LOG INTERCEPT vs. VCC
-52
-60
-54
-64
3.0
-3
TA = -40°C
-62
2.5
-2
TA = +25°C
-52
23
0
-1
TA = +85°C
INPUT POWER (dBm)
26
FREQUENCY (MHz)
-66
0.8
SUPPLY CURRENT (mA)
23
-10
1.6GHz
28
TA = +85°C
27
-20
TA = +105°C
MAX9933
LOG SLOPE vs. VCC
29
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
LOG SLOPE (mV/dB)
toc40
TA = +105°C
28
-30
0
1
INPUT POWER (dBm)
MAX9933B
LOG SLOPE vs. FREQUENCY
29
-1
TA = +85°C
LOG INTERCEPT (mV/dB)
-50
0.8
-2
MAX9930 toc41
-60
TA = +105°C
4
MAX9930 toc45
TA = +85°C
TA = +25°C
TA = -40°C
0.4
0.2
-1
TA = +105°C
0.6
0
1
OUT (V)
3
ERROR (dB)
1.8
1.6
OUT (V)
4
3
ERROR (dB)
1.8
1.6
0.8
LOG INTERCEPT (dBm)
MAX9933B
OUTPUT AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 1.6GHz toc39
4
1.8
OUT (V)
MAX9933B
OUTPUT AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 900MHz toc38
100
125
-1
0
0.2 0.4 0.6 0.8 1.0 1.2 1.4 1.6 1.8 2.0
SHDN (V)
Maxim Integrated │ 8
ERROR (dB)
MAX9933B
OUTPUT AND LOG CONFORMANCE
vs. INPUT POWER AT 50MHz toc37
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = 3V, SHDN = VCC, TA = +25°C, all log conformance plots are normalized to their respective temperatures, TA = +25°C, unless
otherwise noted.)
SHDN POWER-ON DELAY
RESPONSE TIME
SUPPLY CURRENT
vs. SUPPLY VOLTAGE
MAX9930 toc47
MAX9930 toc46
8.0
7.8
SUPPLY CURRENT (mA)
7.6
CCLPF = 150pF
SHDN
500mV/div
7.4
0V
7.2
7.0
6.8
6.6
OUT
1V/div
6.4
0V
6.2
6.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
4.0
4.5
2µs/div
5.5
5.0
SUPPLY VOLTAGE (V)
0V
OUT
500mV/div
0V
5.5
5.0
4.5
1000
0mA
4.0
3.5
10mA
5mA
3.0
2.5
100
2µs/div
MAX9933
CLPF = 220pF
MAXIMUM OUT VOLTAGE
vs. VCC BY LOAD CURRENT
MAX9930 toc50
SHDN
1V/div
NOISE-SPECTRAL DENSITY (nV/Hz)
10,000
OUT (V)
MAX9930 toc48
CLPF = 150pF
MAIN OUTPUT NOISE-SPECTRAL DENSITY
MAX9930 toc49
SHDN RESPONSE TIME
100
1k
10k
100k
1M
10M
2.0
2.5
3.0
3.5
LARGE-SIGNAL
PULSE RESPONSE
4.0
4.5
5.0
5.5
VCC (V)
FREQUENCY (Hz)
SMALL-SIGNAL
PULSE RESPONSE
MAX9930 toc51
CCLPF = 10,000pF
MAX9930 toc52
CCLPF = 150pF
OUT
500mV/div
≤ 900mV
OUT
75mV/div
≤ 0V
fRF = 50MHz
RFIN
250mV/div
fRF = 50MHz
RFIN
25mV/div
-42dBm
-2dBm
10µs/div
www.maximintegrated.com
-24dBm
-18dBm
1µs/div
Maxim Integrated │ 9
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Pin Description
PIN
MAX9930/
MAX9931/
MAX9932
MAX9933
1
1
RFIN
RF Input
2
2
SHDN
Shutdown. Connect to VCC for normal operation.
3
—
SET
4
4
CLPF
Lowpass Filter Connection. Connect external capacitor between CLPF and GND to set
control-loop bandwidth.
5
3, 5
GND
Ground
6
6
N.C.
No Connection. Not internally connected.
7
7
OUT
PA Gain-Control Output
8
8
VCC
Supply Voltage. Bypass to GND with a 0.1µF capacitor.
NAME
FUNCTION
Set-Point Input
SHDN
OUTPUTENABLED
DELAY
VCC
DET
RFIN
DET
DET
10dB
10dB
DET
10dB
OFFSET
COMP
DET
REFERENCE
CURRENT
SHDN
X1
OUT
CLPF
10dB
V-I*
SET
X1
OUT
MAX9930
MAX9931
MAX9932
GND
OUTPUTENABLED
DELAY
VCC
DET
RFIN
gm
DET
DET
10dB
10dB
OFFSET
COMP
DET
10dB
DET
gm
CLPF
10dB
REFERENCE
CURRENT
V-I*
MAX9933
GND
*INVERTING VOLTAGE TO CURRENT CONVERTER
Figure 1. Functional Diagram
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Maxim Integrated │ 10
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Detailed Description
The MAX9930–MAX9933 family of logarithmic amplifiers (log amps) comprises four main amplifier/limiter
stages each with a small-signal gain of 10dB. The output
stage of each amplifier is applied to a full-wave rectifier
(detector). A detector stage also precedes the first gain
stage. In total, five detectors, each separated by 10dB,
comprise the log amp strip. Figure 1 shows the functional
diagram of the log amps.
A portion of the PA output power is coupled to RFIN of the
logarithmic amplifier controller/detector, and is applied to
the logarithmic amplifier strip. Each detector cell outputs
a rectified current and all cell currents are summed and
form a logarithmic output. The detected output is applied
to a high-gain gm stage, which is buffered and then
applied to OUT. For the MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932,
OUT is applied to the gain-control input of the PA to
close the control loop. The voltage applied to SET determines the output power of the PA in the control loop. The
voltage applied to SET relates to an input power level
determined by the log amp detector characteristics. For
the MAX9933, OUT is applied to an ADC typically found
in a baseband IC which, in turn, controls the PA biasing
with the output (Figure 2).
PA
XX
TRANSMITTER
DAC
50Ω
VCC
CC
RFIN
50Ω
0.01µF
MAX9933
SHDN
GND
CLPF
OUT
N.C.
GND
CCLPF
Figure 2. MAX9933 Typical Application Circuit
www.maximintegrated.com
BASEBAND
IC
VCC
ADC
Extrapolating a straight-line fit of the graph of SET vs.
RFIN provides the logarithmic intercept. Logarithmic
slope, the amount SET changes for each dB change of
RF input, is generally independent of waveform or termination impedance. The MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932
slope at low frequencies is about 25mV/dB.
Variance in temperature and supply voltage does not alter
the slope significantly as shown in the Typical Operating
Characteristics.
The MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932 are specifically
designed for use in PA control applications. In a control
loop, the output starts at approximately 2.9V (with supply
voltage of 3V) for the minimum input signal and falls to a
value close to ground at the maximum input. With a portion of the PA output power coupled to RFIN, apply a voltage to SET (for the MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932) and
connect OUT to the gain-control pin of the PA to control its
output power. An external capacitor from CLPF to ground
sets the bandwidth of the PA control loop.
Transfer Function
Logarithmic slope and intercept determine the transfer function of the MAX9930–MAX9933 family of log
amps. The change in SET voltage (OUT voltage for the
MAX9933) per dB change in RF input defines the logarithmic slope. Therefore, a 10dB change in RF input results
in a 250mV change at SET (OUT for the MAX9933). The
Log Conformance vs. Input Power plots (see Typical
Operating Characteristics) show the dynamic range of the
log amp family. Dynamic range is the range for which the
error remains within a band of ±1dB.
The intercept is defined as the point where the linear
response, when extrapolated, intersects the y-axis of
the Log Conformance vs. Input Power plot. Using these
parameters, the input power can be calculated at any SET
voltage level (OUT voltage level for the MAX9933) within
the specified input range with the following equations:
RFIN = (SET / SLOPE) + IP
(MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932)
RFIN = (OUT / SLOPE) + IP
(MAX9933)
where SET is the set-point voltage, OUT is the output
voltage for the MAX9933, SLOPE is the logarithmic slope
(V/dB), RFIN is in either dBm or dBV and IP is the logarithmic intercept point utilizing the same units as RFIN.
Maxim Integrated │ 11
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Applications Information
Controller Mode
(MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932)
Figure 3 provides a circuit example of the MAX9930/
MAX9931/MAX9932 configured as a controller. The
MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932 require a 2.7V to 5.25V
supply voltage. Place a 0.1μF low-ESR, surface-mount
ceramic capacitor close to VCC to decouple the supply.
Electrically isolate the RF input from other pins (especially SET) to maximize performance at high frequencies
(especially at the high-power levels of the MAX9932).
The MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932 require external
AC-coupling. Achieve 50Ω input matching by connecting
a 50Ω resistor between the AC-coupling capacitor of RFIN
and ground.
The MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932 logarithmic amplifiers
function as both the detector and controller in powercontrol loops. Use a directional coupler to couple a portion
of the PA’s output power to the log amp’s RF input. For
applications requiring dual-mode operation and where
there are two PAs and two directional couplers, passively
combine the outputs of the directional couplers before
applying to the log amp. Apply a set-point voltage to SET
from a controlling source (usually a DAC). OUT, which
drives the automatic gain-control input of the PA, corrects any inequality between the RF input level and the
corresponding set-point level. This is valid assuming the
gain control of the variable gain element is positive, such
that increasing OUT voltage increases gain. The OUT
POWER AMPLIFIER
ANTENNA
RF INPUT
XX
50Ω
SHDN and Power-On
The MAX9930–MAX9933 can be placed in shutdown
by pulling SHDN to ground. Shutdown reduces supply
current to typically 13μA. A graph of SHDN Response
Time is included in the Typical Operating Characteristics.
Connect SHDN and VCC together for continuous on
operation.
Power Convention
Expressing power in dBm, decibels above 1mW, is the
most common convention in RF systems. Log amp input
levels specified in terms of power are a result of the following common convention. Note that input power does
not refer to power, but rather to input voltage relative to
a 50Ω impedance. Use of dBV, decibels with respect
to a 1VRMS sine wave, yields a less ambiguous result.
The dBV convention has its own pit-falls in that log amp
response is also dependent on waveform. A complex
input, such as CDMA, does not have the exact same
output response as the sinusoidal signal. The MAX9930–
MAX9933 performance specifications are in both dBV
and dBm, with equivalent dBm levels for a 50Ω environment. To convert dBV values into dBm in a 50Ω network,
add 13dB. For CATV applications, to convert dBV values
to dBm in a 75Ω network, add 11.25dB. Table 1 shows the
different input power ranges in different conventions for
the MAX9930–MAX9933.
Table 1. Power Ranges of the MAX9930–
MAX9933
CC
RFIN
MAX9930
MAX9931
SHDN MAX9932
DAC
voltage can range from 150mV to within 250mV of the
positive supply rail while sourcing 10mA. Use a suitable
load resistor between OUT and GND for PA control inputs
that source current. The Typical Operating Characteristics
has the Maximum Out Voltage vs. VCC By Load Current
graph that shows the sourcing capabilities and output
swing of OUT.
SET
CLPF
VCC
VCC
0.1µF
OUT
N.C.
GND
CCLPF
INPUT POWER RANGE
PART
dBV
dBm IN A 50Ω
NETWORK
dBm IN A 75Ω
NETWORK
MAX9930
-58 to -13
-45 to 0
-46.75 to -1.75
MAX9931
-48 to -3
-35 to +10
-36.75 to +8.25
MAX9932
-43 to +2
-30 to +15
-31.75 to +13.25
MAX9933
-58 to -13
-45 to 0
-46.75 to -1.75
Figure 3. Control Mode Application Circuit Block
www.maximintegrated.com
Maxim Integrated │ 12
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Filter Capacitor and Transient Response
In general, for the MAX9930/MAX9931/MAX9932, the
choice of filter capacitor only partially determines the
time-domain response of a PA control loop. However,
some simple conventions can be applied to affect transient response. A large filter capacitor, CCLPF, dominates
time-domain response, but the loop bandwidth remains
a factor of the PA gain-control range. The bandwidth is
maximized at power outputs near the center of the PA’s
range, and minimized at the low and high power levels,
where the slope of the gain-control curve is lowest.
A smaller valued CCLPF results in an increased loop
bandwidth inversely proportional to the capacitor value.
Inherent phase lag in the PA’s control path, usually caused
by parasitics at OUT, ultimately results in the addition of
complex poles in the AC loop equation. To avoid this secondary effect, experimentally determine the lowest usable
CCLPF for the power amplifier of interest. This requires full
consideration to the intricacies of the PA control function.
The worst-case condition, where the PA output is smallest (gain function is steepest) should be used because
the PA control function is typically nonlinear. An additional
zero can be added to improve loop dynamics by placing
a resistor in series with CCLPF. See Figure 4 for the gain
and phase response for different CCLPF values.
attenuation. A broadband resistive match is implemented by connecting a resistor to ground at the external
AC-coupling capacitor at RFIN as shown in Figure 5. A
50Ω resistor (use other values for different input impedances) in this configuration, in parallel with the input
impedance of the MAX9930–MAX9933, presents an input
impedance of approximately 50Ω. These devices require
an additional external coupling capacitor in series with
the RF input. As the operating frequency increases over
2GHz, input impedance is reduced, resulting in the need
for a larger-valued shunt resistor. Use a Smith Chart for
calculating the ideal shunt resistor value. Refer to the
MAX4000/MAX4001/MAX4002 data sheet for narrowband reactive and series attenuation input coupling.
MAX9930
MAX9931
MAX9932
MAX9933
50 SOURCE
CC
50Ω
RFIN
RS
50Ω
CIN
RIN
VCC
Additional Input Coupling
MAX9930 fig04
GAIN
CCLPF = 2000pF
40
GAIN (dB)
20
CCLPF = 200pF
CCLPF = 200pF
45
-90
CCLPF = 2000pF
-60
PHASE
10
100
1k
1
0.1
-135
-80
-100
90
-45
-40
SMALL-SIGNAL BANDWIDTH vs. CCLPF
135
0
0
-20
10
180
FREQUENCY (MHz)
60
GAIN AND PHASE vs. FREQUENCY
PHASE (DEGREES)
80
Figure 5. Broadband Resistive Matching
MAX9930 fig04
There are three common methods for input coupling:
broadband resistive, narrowband reactive, and series
10k
100k
1M
FREQUENCY (Hz)
-180
-225
10M 100M
0.01
100
1000
10,000
100,000
CCLPF (pF)
Figure 4. Gain and Phase vs. Frequency
www.maximintegrated.com
Maxim Integrated │ 13
MAX9930–MAX9933
Waveform Considerations
The MAX9930–MAX9933 family of logarithmic amplifiers
respond to voltage, not power, even though input levels
are specified in dBm. It is important to realize that input
signals with identical RMS power but unique waveforms
result in different log amp outputs. Differing signal waveforms result in either an upward or downward shift in
the logarithmic intercept. However, the logarithmic slope
remains the same; it is possible to compensate for known
waveform shapes by baseband process.
It must also be noted that the output waveform is generated by first rectifying and then averaging the input signal.
This method should not be confused with RMS or peakdetection methods.
Layout Considerations
As with any RF circuit, the layout of the MAX9930–
MAX9933 circuits affects performance. Use a short 50Ω
line at the input with multiple ground vias along the length
of the line. The input capacitor and resistor should both
be placed as close as possible to the IC. VCC should be
bypassed as close as possible to the IC with multiple vias
connecting the capacitor to the ground plane. It is recommended that good RF components be chosen for the
desired operating frequency range. Electrically isolate
RF input from other pins (especially SET) to maximize
performance at high frequencies (especially at the
high power levels of the MAX9932).
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Block Diagram
OUTPUTENABLE
DELAY
SHDN
VCC
RFIN
LOG
DETECTOR
SET
gm
BLOCK
x1
V-I*
OUT
BUFFER
MAX9930
MAX9931
MAX9932
CCLPF
GND
OUTPUTENABLE
DELAY
SHDN
VCC
RFIN
LOG
DETECTOR
gm
BLOCK
x1
OUT
BUFFER
MAX9933
V-I*
CCLPF
GND
Chip Information
*INVERTING VOLTAGE TO CURRENT CONVERTER.
PROCESS: High-Frequency Bipolar
www.maximintegrated.com
Maxim Integrated │ 14
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Package Information
For the latest package outline information and land patterns (footprints), 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.
PACKAGE TYPE
PACKAGE CODE
OUTLINE NO.
LAND PATTERN NO.
8 μMAX
U8-1
21-0036
90-0092
www.maximintegrated.com
Maxim Integrated │ 15
MAX9930–MAX9933
2MHz to 1.6GHz 45dB RF-Detecting
Controllers and RF Detector
Revision History
REVISION
NUMBER
REVISION
DATE
PAGES
CHANGED
0
8/07
Initial release
—
1
3/09
Added TOC46 to Typical Operating Characteristics
9
2
3/15
Added information for the MAX9933B. Revised Typical Operating Characteristics.
DESCRIPTION
1–3, 7, 8, 15
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim Direct at 1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim Integrated’s website at www.maximintegrated.com.
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 specifications 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.
© 2015 Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. │ 16