Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX9515, the industry’s smallest, lowest pin-count video filter amplifier for standard-definition (SD) video connections from portable devices to TVs. The MAX9515 is an ultra-small, standard-definition video filter amplifier with automatic shutdown. Automatic shutdown circuitry provides intelligent power management by disabling the filter and output amplifier in the absence of an input video signal and/or output load. The MAX9515 is ideal for handheld applications-such as cell phones, digital still/video cameras, and portable media players-that require an output for video playback on a TV.

The MAX9515 features an internal reconstruction filter that smoothes the steps and reduces the spikes on the video signal from the video digital-to-analog converter (DAC). The reconstruction filter typically has ±1dB passband flatness to 9MHz and typically 50dB of attenuation at 27MHz. An internal reconstruction filter smoothes the steps and reduces the spikes on the video signal from the video digital-to-analog converter. The reconstruction filter typically has ±1dB passband flatness to 9MHz and typically 50dB of attenuation at 27MHz. The MAX9515 has an internal fixed gain of 2V/V and expects a nominal full-scale video input signal of 1VP-P.

Traditionally, portable device designers employed either an active- or passive-filter topology to support a video output. Passive filters can require up to five LC (inductor-capacitor) components, which consume valuable board space. Additionally, the typical, three-pole, LC pi filter is unable to suppress fully the high-frequency RF noise caused by the video DAC. In compact designs, unsuppressed noise can easily be coupled into other parts of the system, degrading signal quality and causing extremely difficult design problems. The MAX9515 combines an active-filter stage with a video amplifier to band-limit the signal and set the video-output level to drive a TV connection. Featuring a higher-order filter than competitive devices, it achieves much better attenuation of high-frequency artifacts and noise in the video-output signal. The integrated fifth-order filter features ±1dB passband flatness up to 9MHz and 50dB attenuation at 27MHz, thereby ensuring signal integrity in ultra-compact designs.

The MAX9515 employs SmartSleep technology to maximize battery life and save board space. SmartSleep circuitry constantly monitors the video input for a valid video signal and the video output for the presence of a load. The MAX9515 only turns on and enters its full operating mode when it detects both video playback and a live connection to the TV. In shutdown mode, this circuitry disables the filter and output amplifier, reducing power consumption to an ultra-low 5µA.

Using SmartSleep technology, the MAX9515 intelligently manages power consumption with no external intervention from a host processor or microcontroller. The device eliminates the need for external shutdown circuitry. Consequently, the MAX9515 consumes 30% less board space than competitive active-filter amplifiers, and 50% less space than passive-filter solutions. The automatic shutdown circuitry eliminates the need for a shutdown control. This feature provides intelligent power management by disabling the filter and output amplifier in the absence of a video input signal and/or an output video load. At shutdown, the device only consumes 5µA.

The MAX9515 automatic shutdown circuitry reduces power consumption when there is no active video input signal or an output load. In shutdown, the supply current is reduced to 5μA. The video amplifier only turns on when both an active video input signal and an output load are present. The MAX9515 operates from a single-supply voltage down to 2.7V, allowing for low-power operation. Bypass VDD to GND with a 0.1μF capacitor. Place all external components as close as possible to the device. The video input to the MAX9515 can be directly connected to the DAC output. The MAX9515 has an internal fixed gain of 2V/V and expects a nominal full-scale video input signal of 1VP-P. The MAX9515 is specified to operate over the -40°C to +125°C automotive temperature range.

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