100 MHz upstream line driver for CATV return paths
The Maxim MAX3510EEP is a single-channel upstream CATV amplifier designed for the return-path transmitter in cable-modem and set-top-box head-end equipment. The part runs from a single 4.75V to 5.25V supply and draws 109 mA typical — a moderate bias that keeps the output linearity up through the DOCSIS 3.0/3.1 upstream burst profiles. The 20-SSOP (0.154-inch body width) footprint is shared with the 20-QSOP package variant, so the board layout accepts either.
5V supply rail and thermal design
The 4.75V to 5.25V supply range means this part needs a regulated 5V rail — it will not run from a 3.3V supply or a loosely-regulated 5V bus that dips below 4.75V during line transients. At 109 mA supply current, the 20-SSOP package dissipates roughly 550 mW at 5V; the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance of the SSOP body means the board copper area and airflow need to be checked if the ambient inside the enclosure exceeds 70°C.
Lifecycle and compliance
Note that the RoHS compliance is listed as non-compliant, so this is the tin-lead (PbSn) finish variant. If your BOM requires RoHS-10/10, check the lead-free suffix (MAX3510EEP+).