The industry's smallest and most integrated IO-Link transceiver suitable for industrial applications, not found in other solutions

Over 60% PCB space savings, an IO-Link device ideal for ultra-small 24V binary digital and IO-Link sensor applications

SUNNYVALE, CA—October 3, 2011—Maxim Integrated Products (NASDAQ: MXIM) has launched the MAX14821, the industry's smallest IO-Link® PHY (physical-layer) transceiver. Available in a 2.5mm x 2.5mm WLP package, the MAX14821 saves over 60% of space compared to competing packages and enables a design suitable for small housings. Built-in dual low-drop linear regulators, along with separate sets of digital outputs and inputs, provide additional flexibility for complex sensor modules. This IO-Link transceiver is optimized for point-to-point communication between industrial controllers, sensor modules, and actuators.

IO-Link, the new standard for industrial automation

The IO-Link protocol is a new industry standard for point-to-point communication between a master control module and sensing peripherals, such as sensors and actuators. This protocol provides three standard conductor wires and connectors to enable calibration, diagnostics, and data transmission. IO-Link technology offers simple design and development, rapid installation, robust operation, and easy maintenance. Maxim has been a member of the IO-Link Consortium, which defines these standards, since 2008.

Designed to meet the latest IO-Link standards, the MAX14821 supports all specified IO-Link data transfer rates of 4.8kbps (COM1), 38.4kbps (COM2), and 230.4kbps (COM3). The device also supports 24V binary sensor/actuator applications, so manufacturers can utilize the device's advanced performance features in non-IO-Link applications.

IO-Link transceiver PHY that increases flexibility and improves performance

The MAX14821 has a footprint of only 2.5mm x 2.5mm, making it ideal for small sensors that cannot be implemented with other integrated solutions. The device's high integration characteristics satisfy essential protection and performance requirements for various functions that discrete solutions cannot provide.

This transceiver provides advanced features that enhance flexibility and performance in IO-Link applications. The driver for the C/Q lines can be configured with push-pull, low-side, or high-side output stages, allowing the MAX14821 to be easily designed for any system and interfaced with various sensors. The DO driver can be configured like the C/Q pins, and unlike competing products, the MAX14821 provides two output drivers for more complex sensor modules.

High integration simplifies design and reduces time, cost, and board space. The MAX14821 features a built-in high-speed 12MHz SPI™ interface for control and monitoring. This interface can be configured via registers for various alarms and error detection, enabling monitoring and rapid changes to minimize machine downtime and reduce production costs. The built-in 5V and 3.3V linear regulators offer greater design flexibility than the single-regulator designs of competing products.

To ensure robust performance in abnormal industrial environments, the MAX14821 provides reverse voltage protection as well as short-circuit and thermal protection on the 24V interface line. In addition, low-voltage monitoring is provided on all voltage pins, and a slew rate limiter reduces EMI radiation and reflection.

IO-Link transceiver product family

The MAX14821 is the most recent product released by Maxim in the IO-Link transceiver family. This device complements the 4mm x 4mm TQFN IO-Link transceiver MAX14820, allowing designers to now select power output and form factor. Together with the recently released MAX14824 master IO-Link transceiver and MAX14830 quad-channel UART, these devices form a complete IO-Link transceiver PHY chain for industrial applications.

Order Information

The MAX14821 operates over a wide industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C and is available in small 2.5mm x 2.5mm WLP or small 4mm x 4mm 24-pin TQFN packages. Samples are currently available. The lead time for bulk orders is currently 10 to 12 weeks. Additionally, the MAX14821 EV kit is available for easy product and system evaluation.