Launch of Remote Tuner Solution 'MAX2175 RF to Bits'
Simplifying automotive head unit design and reducing the number of cables

Maxim Integrated Korea has announced a remote tuner solution. By managing the number of remote tuners without redesigning the head unit, a single remote radio tuner architecture can be optimized for specific uses.

The 'MAX2175 RF to Bits' tuner included in the Maxim remote tuner solution can support radio standards worldwide with only a software update, without changing the vehicle's hardware. The tuner's digital output is serialized over a single coaxial cable using Maxim GMSL SerDes (Gigabit Multimedia Serial Link Parallel-to-Serial Transmitter).

Maxim stated that multiple tuners are replaced with serial-to-parallel converters connected to a system-on-a-chip (SoC), saving head unit space and reducing system complexity and heat dissipation. They also stated that for a 4-channel radio, 4W of power can be saved in the head unit.



▲ Image of Maxim's remote tuner solution 'MAX2175 RF to Bits'

The MAX2175 enables software-based baseband processing on the vehicle SoC. This software-defined radio (SDR) approach eliminates the need for a dedicated baseband processor, allowing for flexible implementation. You can support worldwide radio standards by simply changing the software to MAX2175.

Maxim's remote tuner solution consists of the MAX2175 analog-to-digital hybrid radio receiver equipped with an RF to Bits front end, the MAX96708 14-bit GMSL serial-to-parallel converter, the MAX96711 14-bit GMSL serializer, the MAX15027 1A low-dropout (LDO) linear regulator, and the MAX20002 36V, 2A synchronous buck converter. The MAX2175 is available in a 48-pin TQFN package (7mm x 7mm) and supports a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. Evaluation kits, MAX2175R1EVKIT# and MAX2175J1EVKIT#, are also available.