Level-shifter parametric fit for mixed-voltage buses
The MAX14611ETD+T is a 4-channel bidirectional voltage-level translator from Analog Devices, housed in a 14-TDFN (3x3 mm) exposed-pad package. It translates between two supply domains: VCCA from 0.9 V to 5.5 V and VCCB from 1.65 V to 5.5 V, covering the common logic families from sub-1V cores up to legacy 5V peripherals. Rated for 20 Mbps data rate, this part handles SPI, UART, and I²C buses running at standard and fast speeds without adding propagation-delay margin problems. The bidirectional channel type eliminates the need for a direction-control signal — the translator senses the drive direction on each channel independently.
Output configuration and bus topology
Each channel's output type is configurable as open-drain, push-pull, or tri-state. Open-drain mode suits multi-drop I²C or SMBus lines where multiple drivers share a pull-up resistor; push-pull mode gives faster edge rates for point-to-point SPI without external resistors. Tri-state lets the translator float off the bus during power sequencing or partial shutdown. The part integrates power-supply decoupling and thermal-shutdown protection on-chip — the decoupling reduces external capacitor count near the translator, and the thermal shutdown protects against a sustained output short or over-temperature event on the board.
The exposed paddle is the thermal and electrical ground reference — the datasheet's recommended footprint shows a 2.1x2.1 mm solder-paste aperture on the centre pad. Operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C, covering industrial enclosures and outdoor telecom cabinets without a grade bump. Mounting is surface-mount only — no through-hole variant exists.