19-4420; Rev 1; 6/09
Ultrasound VGA Integrated
with CW Octal Mixer
MAX2036
General Description
Features
o 8-Channel Configuration
The MAX2036 8-channel variable-gain amplifier (VGA)
and programmable octal mixer array is designed for
high linearity, high dynamic range, and low-noise per-
formance targeting ultrasound imaging and Doppler
applications. Each amplifier features differential inputs
and outputs and a total gain range of 50dB (typ). In
addition, the VGAs offer very low output-referred noise
performance suitable for interfacing with 10-bit ADCs.
o High Integration for Ultrasound Imaging
Applications
o Pin Compatible with the MAX2035 Ultrasound
VGA
VGA Features
o Maximum Gain, Gain Range, and Output-Referred
Noise Optimized for Interfacing with 10-Bit ADCs
Maximum Gain of 39.5dB
The MAX2036 VGA is optimized for less than 0.5dB
absolute gain error to ensure minimal channel-to-channel
ultrasound beamforming focus error. The device’s differ-
ential outputs are designed to directly drive ultrasound
ADCs through an external passive anti-aliasing filter. A
switchable clamp is also provided at each amplifier’s
output to limit the output signals, thereby preventing
ADC overdrive or saturation.
Total Gain Range of 50dB
√
60nV/ Hz Ultra-Low Output-Referred Noise at
5MHz
o
0.5dB Absolute Gain ꢀrror
o 120mW Consumption per Channel
o Switchable Output VGA Clamp ꢀliminating ADC
Overdrive
Dynamic performance of the device is optimized to
reduce distortion to support second-harmonic imaging.
The device achieves a second-harmonic distortion
o Fully Differential VGA Outputs for Direct ADC
Drive
o Variable Gain Range Achieves 50dB Dynamic
specification of -62dBc at V
= 1.5V
and f
=
IN
Range
OUT
P-P
5MHz, and an ultrasound-specific* two-tone third-order
intermodulation distortion specification of -52dBc at
OUT
o -62dBc HD2 at V
= 1.5V
and f = 5MHz
OUT
P-P IN
o Two-Tone Ultrasound-Specific* IMD3 of -52dBc at
V
= 1.5V
and f = 5MHz.
P-P IN
V
= 1.5V and f = 5MHz
OUT
P-P
IN
CWD Mixer Features
The MAX2036 also integrates an octal quadrature mixer
array and programmable LO phase generators for a
complete CW beamforming solution. The LO phase
selection for each channel can be programmed using a
digital serial interface and a single high-frequency
clock or the LOs for each complex mixer pair can be
directly driven using separate 4 x LO clocks. The serial
interface is designed to allow multiple devices to be
easily daisy-chained in order to minimize program inter-
face wiring. The LO phase dividers can be pro-
grammed to allow 4, 8, or 16 quadrature phases. The
input path of each CW mixer consists of a selectable
lowpass filter for optimal CWD noise performance. The
outputs of the mixers are summed into I and Q differen-
tial current outputs. The mixers and LO generators are
designed to have exceptionally low noise performance
of -155dBc/Hz at 1kHz offset from a 1.25MHz carrier.
o Low Mixer Noise of -155dBc/Hz at 1kHz Offset
from 1.25MHz Carrier
o Serial-Programmable LO Phase Generator for 4, 8,
16 LO Quadrature Phase Resolution
o Optional Individual Channel 4 x f LO Input
LO
Drive Capability
o 269mW Power Consumption per Channel (Normal
Power Mode) and 226mW Power Consumption
per Channel (Low-Power Mode)
o CWD Implementation Is Fully Compliant with All
Patents Related to Ultrasound Imaging
Techniques
Ordering Information
PART
TEMP RANGE
0°C to +70°C
0°C to +70°C
PIN-PACKAGE
†
100 TQFP-EP
MAX2036CCQ+D
MAX2036CCQ+TD
The MAX2036 operates from a +5.0V power supply,
consuming only 120mW/channel in VGA mode and
269mW/channel in normal power CW mode. A low-
power CW mode is also available and consumes only
226mW/channel. The device is available in a lead-free
100-pin TQFP package (14mm x 14mm) with an
exposed pad. Electrical performance is guaranteed
over a 0°C to +70°C temperature range.
†
100 TQFP-EP
+Denotes a lead(Pb)-free/RoHS-compliant package.
T = Tape and reel.
D = Dry packing.
†
EP = Exposed pad.
*See the Ultrasound-Specific IMD3 Specification in the
Applications Information section.
Applications
Pin Configuration appears at end of data sheet.
Ultrasound Imaging
Sonar
________________________________________________________________ Maxim Integrated Products
1
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim Direct at 1-888-629-4642,
or visit Maxim’s website at www.maxim-ic.com.