Maxim MAX14821 IO-Link transceiver

Maxim has introduced the MAX14821, said to be the smallest IO-link physical-layer (PHY) transceiver in the industry.

Encased in a 2.5 x 2.5 mm WLP, the device saves more than 60% compared with other packages. An extra set of a digital output and input plus dual integrated low-dropout linear regulators provide added flexibility with complex sensor modules.

The transceiver is optimised for point-to-point communication between industrial controllers and sensor modules and actuators.

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.

The technology makes design and development simpler, installation faster, operation more powerful and maintenance easier.

The device supports all specified IO-link data rates: 4.8 Kbps (COM1), 38.4 Kbps (COM2) and 230.4 Kbps (COM3). It also supports 24 V binary sensor/actuator applications, so manufacturers can use the performance capabilities in non IO-link applications.

The transceiver incorporates features that enhance flexibility and performance. 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 device into any system and to interface it with a wide variety of sensors. A DO driver is configurable like the C/Q pin and provides two output drivers for more complex sensor modules.

It has a high-speed 12 MHz SPI interface for control and monitoring and is configurable with numerous alarms and fault detection, through its registers, providing monitoring and on-the-fly changes.

Built-in 5 and 3.3 V linear regulators provide more design flexibility and it features reverse-voltage protection on the 24 V 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.