Industry’s smallest, most integrated IO-Link transceiver fits in industrial apps

SUNNYVALE, USA: Maxim Integrated Products introduced the MAX14821, the smallest IO-Link physical-layer (PHY) transceiver in the industry. Encased in a 2.5 x 2.5mm WLP, the MAX14821 saves more than 60 percent compared to competitors' packages and enables designs to fit in tiny housings.

An extra set of a digital output and input plus dual integrated low-dropout linear regulators provide added flexibility with complex sensor modules. This IO-Link transceiver is optimized for point-to-point communication between industrial controllers and sensor modules and actuators.

IO-Link sets new standard for industrial automation
The IO-Link protocol is a new industrial standard for point-to-point communication between master control modules and sensing peripherals like sensors/actuators. It allows calibration, diagnostics, and data transmission using a standard three-conductor wire and connectors. IO-Link technology makes design and development simpler, installation faster, operation more powerful, and maintenance easier. Maxim has been a member of the IO-Link consortium that defines these standards since 2008.

Designed to meet the latest IO-Link standard, the MAX14821 supports all specified IO-Link data rates: 4.8kbps (COM1), 38.4kbps (COM2), and 230.4kbps (COM3). It also supports 24V binary sensor/actuator applications, so manufacturers can leverage the device’s advanced performance capabilities in non-IO-Link applications.

IO-Link transceiver PHY adds flexibility, enhances performance
With its footprint of only 2.5mm x 2.5mm, the MAX14821 is ideal for tiny sensors where other integrated solutions are too big. Its highly integrated feature set meets performance demands where other discrete solutions cannot provide the necessary protection and extensive features.

This transceiver incorporates advanced features that enhance flexibility and performance in IO-Link applications. The driver for the C/Q line can be configured for a push-pull, low-side, or high-side output stage. This makes it easy to design the MAX14821 into any system and to interface it with a wide variety of sensors. A DO driver is configurable like the C/Q pin, so unlike its competition, the MAX14821 provides two output drivers for more complex sensor modules.

Advanced integration simplifies design while saving time, cost, and board space. The MAX14821 has a high-speed 12MHz SPI(TM) interface for control and monitoring. It is configurable with numerous alarms and fault detection through its registers, thus providing monitoring and on-the-fly changes that minimize machine downtime and save production cost. Built-in 5V and 3.3V linear regulators provide more design flexibility than the competition’s single-regulator designs.

For robust performance in abnormal industrial environments, the MAX14821 features reverse-voltage protection on the 24V interface lines and short-circuit and thermal protection. Undervoltage monitoring is provided for all voltage pins, and a slew-rate limiter reduces EMI emissions and reflections.

The MAX14821 is the company’s newest member in a family of IO-Link transceivers. It complements the MAX14820, a 4mm x 4mm TQFN device IO-Link transceiver, so now designers have a choice in 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.

The MAX14821 operates over the extended -40 degrees Celsius to +85 degrees Celsius industrial temperature range. It is available in either the tiny 2.5mm x 2.5mm WLP or the small 4mm x 4mm 24-pin TQFN package. Pricing starts at $3.25 for the WLP and $3.15 for the TQFN versions (1000-up, FOB USA). Samples are available now. The lead time for large quantities is currently 10 to 12 weeks. Maxim also offers a MAX14821 evaluation (EV) kit for easy product and system evaluation.