MaxLinear launches MxL231 and MxL235 programmable gain amplifiers

CARLSBAD, USA: MaxLinear Inc. announced the MxL231 and MxL235 upstream programmable gain amplifiers (PGAs) for use in DOCSIS 3.0 and upcoming DOCSIS 3.1 gateways, respectively.

PGAs are utilized to amplify upstream communications from DOCSIS gateways back to head-end equipment.

Complementing the company’s popular Full-Spectrum Capture (FSC) receivers for 16-, 24-, and 32-channel DOCSIS 3.0 gateways, the MxL231 reduces front-end power dissipation by up to 1.6W compared to existing PGA offerings. As cable operators migrate from four-channel to eight-channel QAM upstream services, reducing power dissipation in the front-end simplifies thermal design efforts and reduces heat mitigation costs.

Additionally, the MxL231 has a smaller footprint than existing PGA devices and requires fewer external components, thereby reducing the PCB area required for upstream amplification. Using only a single 3.3V supply, the MxL231 now allows manufactures to eliminate the 5V supply from their gateway design entirely, simplifying layout and reducing system cost.

Leveraging design architecture similar to the MxL231, the MxL235 is optimized to meet the higher upstream power output required in the DOCSIS 3.1 standard. The MxL235 can deliver any combination of DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1 channels up to a combined output power of 69dBmV. The MxL235 will be offered as a companion to MaxLinear’s upcoming DOCSIS 3.1 FSC receivers.