300MHz to 450MHz, Very-Low-IF ASK/OOK Receiver Minimizes System Cost by Eliminating an External IF Filter

(Product News, 26 Jun 2009)

Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX7036 very-low-IF, superheterodyne receiver for ASK/OOK data in the 300MHz to 450MHz frequency range. Only requiring a few external components to implement a complete receiver-chain solution, this device integrates an LNA; self-contained PLL block; 400kHz IF filter with RSSI; and analog baseband, data-recovery circuitry. To ensure excellent, consistent receiver sensitivity of -109dBm, these critical blocks have been designed to operate over the -40ºC to +105ºC temperature range. The MAX7036 is ideal for applications such as remote keyless-entry systems, car alarms, home security systems, remote controls, and garage door openers.

The MAX7036 requires few external components and has a power-down pin to put it in a low-current sleep mode, making it ideal for cost- and power-sensitive applications. The integration of the IF filter eliminates the need for an external ceramic filter, thus reducing the bill of materials. The device also contains an automatic gain control (AGC) circuit that reduces the LNA gain by 30dB when the input signal power is large.

The MAX7036 operates from either a 3.3V or 5V power supply. It draws less than 1microamp (typ) in shutdown mode, and only 5.5mA (typ) in receive mode. Fully specified over the -40ºC to +105ºC temperature range, the MAX7036 is available in a 20-pin TQFN package.