MAXIM MAX4206ETE

19-3071; Rev 0; 12/03
KIT
ATION
EVALU
E
L
B
A
AVAIL
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
Features
♦ +2.7V to +11V Single-Supply Operation
♦ ±2.7V to ±5.5V Dual-Supply Operation
♦ 5 Decades of Dynamic Range (10nA to 1mA)
♦ Monotonic Over a 1nA to 1mA Range
♦ 0.25V/Decade Internally Trimmed Output Scale
Factor
♦ Adjustable Output Scale Factor
♦ Adjustable Output Offset Voltage
♦ Internal 10nA to 10µA Reference Current Source
♦ 0.5V Input Common-Mode Voltage
♦ Small 16-Pin Thin QFN Package (4mm x 4mm x
0.8mm)
♦ -40°C to +85°C Operating Temperature Range
♦ Evaluation Kit Available
Ordering Information
Applications
Photodiode Current Monitoring
PART
Portable Instrumentation
MAX4206ETE
TEMP RANGE
PIN-PACKAGE
-40°C to +85°C
16 Thin QFN-EP*
*EP = Exposed Paddle.
Medical Instrumentation
Analog Signal Processing
Typical Operating Circuit
Pin Configuration
VCC
IIN
REFIIN
LOGIIN
CMVIN
REFIOUT
0.1µF
TOP VIEW
(LEADS ON BOTTOM)
VCC
LOGV2
LOGIIN
R2
CCOMP
16
15
14
13
REFIOUT
RCOMP
N.C.
1
12
CMVOUT
REFVOUT
2
11
REFISET
GND
3
10
VCC
VEE
4
9
N.C.
MAX4206
VOUT
SCALE
REFIIN
CCOMP
R1
MAX4206
RCOMP
CMVIN
CMVOUT
LOGV1
REFVOUT
0.1µF
6
7
8
LOGV1
OSADJ
SCALE
LOGV2
0.1µF
5
THIN QFN
ROS
REFISET
RSET
OSADJ
GND
VEE
________________________________________________________________ Maxim Integrated Products
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim/Dallas Direct! at
1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim’s website at www.maxim-ic.com.
1
MAX4206
General Description
The MAX4206 logarithmic amplifier computes the log
ratio of an input current relative to a reference current
(externally or internally generated) and provides a corresponding voltage output with a default 0.25V/decade
scale factor. The device operates from a single +2.7V
to +11V supply or from dual ±2.7V to ±5.5V supplies
and is capable of measuring five decades of input current across a 10nA to 1mA range.
The MAX4206’s uncommitted op amp can be used for
a variety of purposes, including filtering noise, adding
offset, and adding additional gain. A 0.5V reference is
also included to generate an optional precision current
reference using an external resistor, which adjusts the
log intercept of the MAX4206. The output-offset voltage
and the adjustable scale factor are also set using external resistors.
The MAX4206 is available in a space-saving 16-pin thin
QFN package (4mm x 4mm x 0.8mm), and is specified
for operation over the -40°C to +85°C extended temperature range.
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
(All voltages referenced to GND, unless otherwise noted.)
VCC .........................................................................-0.3V to +12V
VEE............................................................................-6V to +0.3V
Supply Voltage (VCC to VEE) .............................................. +12V
REFVOUT ....................................................(VEE - 0.3V) to +3.0V
OSADJ, SCALE, REFISET ...........................(VEE - 0.3V) to +5.5V
REFIIN, LOGIIN ........................................(VEE - 0.3V) to VCMVIN
LOGV1, LOGV2, CMVOUT,
REFIOUT ......................................(VEE - 0.3V) to (VCC + 0.3V)
CMVIN............................................................(VEE - 0.3V) to +1V
Continuous Current (REFIIN, LOGIIN) ................................10mA
Continuous Power Dissipation (TA = +70°C)
16-Pin Thin QFN (derate 16.9mW/°C above +70°C) ....1349mW
Operating Temperature Range ...........................-40°C to +85°C
Junction Temperature .....................................................+150°C
Storage Temperature Range .............................-65°C to +150°C
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s) .................................+300°C
Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings only, and functional
operation of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational sections of the specifications is not implied. Exposure to
absolute maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
DC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS—Single-Supply Operation
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = -40°C to +85°C. Typical values are at TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 1)
PARAMETER
Supply Voltage
SYMBOL
VCC
Supply Current
ICC
LOGIIN Current Range (Notes 3, 4)
ILOG
REFIIN Current Range (Notes 3, 4)
IREF
Common-Mode Voltage
Common-Mode Voltage Input
Range
Log Conformity Error
Logarithmic Slope (Scale Factor)
CONDITIONS
(Note 2)
MIN
2.7
TA = +25°C
3.9
TA = -40°C to +85°C
Minimum
Minimum
TA = +25°C
500
±2
TA = -40°C to +85°C
TA = +25°C
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
237.5
250
231.25
TA = -40°C to +85°C
80
Input Offset Voltage Temperature
Drift
VIOS
|VCMVIN - VREFIIN|, |VCMVIN - VLOGIIN|
6
VREFISET
2
520
mV
1.0
V
±5
TA = +25°C
1.218
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
1.195
262.5
268.75
1
Current Reference Output Voltage
mA
±10
TA = +25°C, |VCMVIN - VREFIIN|,
|VCMVIN - VLOGIIN|
IREFVOUT
1
mV
VIO
Voltage Reference Output Current
mA
nA
Input Offset Voltage
VREFVOUT
mA
nA
Maximum
0.5
Voltage Reference Output
V
5
10
VCMVIN
Logarithmic Slope (Scale Factor)
Temperature Drift
11.0
1
480
K
UNITS
10
Maximum
IREF = 10nA,
ILOG= 10nA to 1mA,
K = 0.25V/decade
(Note 4)
MAX
7
VCMVOUT
VLC
TYP
1.238
µV/
decade/
°C
5
490
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
482
1.258
1.275
500
_______________________________________________________________________________________
mV
µV/°C
1
TA = +25°C
mV/
decade
V
mA
510
518
mV
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = -40°C to +85°C. Typical values are at TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 1)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
LOGV2 BUFFER
Input Offset Voltage
VIO
Input Bias Current
IB
Output Voltage Range
Output Short-Circuit Current
Slew Rate
Unity-Gain Bandwidth
TA = +25°C
0.4
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
2
6
mV
(Note 4)
0.01
1
nA
VOH
RL to GND = 2kΩ
VCC 0.2
VCC 0.3
V
VOL
RL to GND = 2kΩ
0.2
0.08
IOUT+
Sourcing
34
IOUT-
Sinking
58
mA
SR
12
V/µs
GBW
5
MHz
AC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS—Single-Supply Operation
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
LOGV2 Total Noise
0.1Hz to 10Hz, total output-referred noise,
IREF = 10nA, ILOG = 100nA
17
µVRMS
LOGV2 Spot Noise Density
f = 5kHz, IREF = 10nA, ILOG = 100nA
0.8
µV/√Hz
REFVOUT Total Noise
1Hz to 10Hz, total output-referred noise
3.3
µVRMS
REFVOUT Spot Noise Density
f = 5kHz
266
nV/√Hz
REFISET Total Noise
1Hz to 10Hz, total output-referred noise
0.67
µVRMS
REFISET Spot Noise Density
f = 5kHz
23
nV/√Hz
Small-Signal Unity-Gain
Bandwidth
IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, RCOMP = 300Ω,
CCOMP = 32pF
1
MHz
DC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS—Dual-Supply Operation
(VCC = +5V, VEE = -5V, GND = 0, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = -40°C to +85°C. Typical values are at TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 1)
PARAMETER
Supply Voltage (Note 2)
SYMBOL
MIN
TYP
MAX
VCC
2.7
5.5
VEE
-2.7
-5.5
Supply Current
ICC
LOGIIN Current Range (Notes 3, 4)
ILOG
REFIIN Current Range (Notes 3, 4)
IREF
Common-Mode Voltage
CONDITIONS
VCMVOUT
TA = +25°C
5
TA = -40°C to +85°C
Minimum
7.5
10
1
10
mA
mA
nA
Maximum
480
V
nA
Maximum
Minimum
6
UNITS
500
1
mA
520
mV
_______________________________________________________________________________________
3
MAX4206
DC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS—Single-Supply Operation (continued)
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
DC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS—Dual-Supply Operation (continued)
(VCC = +5V, VEE = -5V, GND = 0, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = -40°C to +85°C. Typical values are at TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.) (Note 1)
PARAMETER
Common-Mode Voltage Input
Range
Log Conformity Error
Logarithmic Slope (Scale Factor)
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
K
Logarithmic Slope (Scale Factor)
Temperature Drift
TYP
0.5
VCMVIN
VLC
MIN
IREF = 10nA,
ILOG= 10nA to 1mA,
K = 0.25V/decade
(Note 4)
TA = +25°C
±2
TA = +25°C
TA = -40°C to +85°C
237.5
250
231.25
TA = -40°C to +85°C
80
1
Input Offset Voltage
Temperature Drift
VIOS
|VCMVIN - VREFIIN|, |VCMVIN - VLOGIIN|
6
IREFVOUT
Current Reference Output
Voltage
VREFISET
V
±5
TA = +25°C
1.218
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
1.195
262.5
268.75
TA = +25°C, |VCMVIN - VREFIIN|,
|VCMVIN - VLOGIIN|
Voltage Reference Output
Current
1.0
±10
VIO
VREFVOUT
UNITS
mV
TA = -40°C to +85°C
Input Offset Voltage
Voltage Reference Output
MAX
1.238
µV/
decade/
°C
5
490
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
482
1.258
1.275
500
mV
µV/°C
1
TA = +25°C
mV/
decade
V
mA
510
518
mV
LOGV2 BUFFER
Input Offset Voltage
Input Bias Current
VIO
IB
TA = +25°C
0.4
TA = -40°C to +85°C (Note 4)
(Note 4)
0.01
1
VOH
RL to GND = 2kΩ
VCC 0.2
VCC 0.3
VOL
RL to GND = 2kΩ
Slew Rate
Unity-Gain Bandwidth
4
mV
nA
V
Output Voltage Range
Output Short-Circuit Current
2
6
VEE +
0.2
VEE +
0.08
IOUT+
Sourcing
34
IOUT-
Sinking
58
mA
SR
12
V/µs
GBW
5
MHz
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
(VCC = +5V, VEE = -5V, GND = 0, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
PARAMETER
SYMBOL
CONDITIONS
MIN
TYP
MAX
UNITS
LOGV2 Total Noise
0.1Hz to 10Hz, total output-referred noise,
IREF = 10nA, ILOG = 100nA
17
µVRMS
LOGV2 Spot Noise Density
f = 5kHz, IREF = 10nA, ILOG = 100nA
0.8
µV/√Hz
REFVOUT Total Noise
1Hz to 10Hz, total output-referred noise
3.3
µVRMS
REFVOUT Spot Noise Density
f = 5kHz
266
nV/√Hz
REFISET Total Noise
1Hz to 10Hz, total output-referred noise
0.67
µVRMS
REFISET Spot Noise Density
f = 5kHz
23
nV/√Hz
Small-Signal Unity-Gain
Bandwidth
IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, RCOMP = 300Ω,
CCOMP = 32pF
1
MHz
Note 1:
Note 2:
Note 3:
Note 4:
All devices are 100% production tested at TA = +25°C. All temperature limits are guaranteed by design.
Guaranteed and functionally verified.
Log conformity error less than ±5mV with scale factor = 0.25V/decade.
Guaranteed by design.
Typical Operating Characteristics
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
1.25
0.75
0.50
MAX4206 toc02
1.75
1.50
1.25
1.00
VLOGV1 (V)
1.00
VLOGV1 vs. ILOG
IREF = 10nA
TA = -40°C TO +85°C
VCC = +5V
VEE = -5V
1.50
VLOGV1 (V)
VLOGV1 (V)
1.25
1.75
MAX4206 toc01
1.50
VLOGV1 vs. ILOG
IREF = 10nA
TA = -40°C TO +85°C
VCC = +5V
VEE = GND
0.75
0.50
0.75
0.50
0.25
0.25
0
0
0
-0.25
10n
100n
1µ
10µ
ILOG (A)
100µ
1m
10m
IREF = 10nA
TA = -40°C TO +85°C
VCC = +2.7V
VEE = GND
1.00
0.25
-0.25
MAX4206 toc03
VLOGV1 vs. ILOG
1.75
-0.25
1n
10n
100n
1µ
10µ 100µ
ILOG (A)
1m
10m
10n
100n
1µ
10µ
100µ
1m
10m
ILOG (A)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
5
MAX4206
AC ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS—Dual-Supply Operation
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
1.0
0.8
0.5
0.25
0.3
0
0
-0.25
1µ
10µ
100µ
1m
10µA 100µA
100nA 1µA
-20
1n
1µ
10µ
100µ
100n
1µ
10µ
100µ
1m
NORMALIZED LOG CONFORMANCE
ERROR vs. ILOG
NORMALIZED LOG CONFORMANCE
ERROR vs. ILOG
IREF = 10nA
TA = -40°C TO +85°C
VCC = +2.7V
VEE = GND
15
10
5
0
-5
10n
100n
1µ
10µ 100µ
1m
0
-5
-20
10n
10m
5
-15
-20
-20
IREF = 10nA
SINGLE SUPPLY: VCC = +2.7V, +5V, 11V,
VEE = GND
DUAL SUPPLY: VCC = +5V
VEE = -5V
100n
1µ
10µ
100µ
1m
10n
10m
100n
1µ
10µ
100µ
1m
ILOG (A)
ILOG (A)
ILOG (A)
VLOGIIN - VCMVIN vs. ILOG
VLOGV2 VOLTAGE-NOISE DENSITY
vs. FREQUENCY
TOTAL WIDEBAND VOLTAGE NOISE
AT VLOGV2 vs. ILOG
10nA
2
1
0
-1
-2
100nA
1µA
IREF = ILOG
f = 1Hz TO 1MHz
VOLTAGE NOISE (mVRMS)
NOISE DENSITY (µV/√Hz)
3
5
MAX4206 toc11
10
MAX4206 toc10
IREF = 10nA
10m
-10
TA = -40°C
-15
-15
15
10
-10
TA = -40°C
20
MAX4206 toc08
20
ERROR (mV)
-10
1
10µA
0.1
4
10m
3
2
1
-3
-4
IREF = ILOG
0
0.01
-5
1n
10n
100n
1µ
10µ 100µ
ILOG (A)
6
10n
1m
NORMALIZED LOG CONFORMANCE
ERROR vs. ILOG
-5
4
100n
ILOG (A)
0
5
10n
IREF (A)
5
1n
-5
-15
ERROR (mV)
10
0
ILOG (A)
IREF = 10nA
TA = -40°C TO +85°C
VCC = +5V
VEE = -5V
15
10m
MAX4206 toc07
20
100n
5
-10
10nA
-0.5
10n
ERROR (mV)
1mA
-0.3
-0.50
ERROR (mV)
0.50
10
IREF = 10nA
TA = -40°C TO +85°C
VCC = +5V
VEE = GND
MAX4206 toc09
VLOGV1 (V)
VLOGV1 (V)
100nA
10nA
0.75
1.5
15
1.3
1µA
1.00
1.8
MAX4206 toc12
100µA
10µA
1.25
20
MAX4206 toc05
1mA
1.50
2.0
MAX4206 toc04
2.00
1.75
NORMALIZED LOG CONFORMANCE
ERROR vs. ILOG
VLOGV1 vs. IREF
(ILOG = 10nA TO 1mA)
MAX4206 toc06
VLOGV1 vs. ILOG
(IREF = 10nA TO 1mA)
VLOGIIN - VCMVIN (mV)
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
1m
10m
1
10
100
1k
10k
100k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
1M
10M
10n
100n
1µ
10µ
ILOG (A)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
100µ
1m
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
ILOG PULSE RESPONSE
(IREF = 100nA,
VCC = 5V, VEE = GND)
ILOG PULSE RESPONSE
(IREF = 100nA,
VCC = 5V, VEE = -5V)
MAX4206 toc13
1.0V
MAX4206 toc14
1.0V
100µA TO 1mA
100µA TO 1mA
0.75V
0.75V
0.75V
10µA TO 100µA
VLOGV1 (V)
VLOGV1 (V)
0.75V
0.50V
0.50V
10µA TO 100µA
0.50V
0.50V
1µA TO 10µA
0.25V
1µA TO 10µA
0.25V
0.25V
0.25V
100nA TO 1µA
0
100nA TO 1µA
0
20µs/div
20µs/div
IREF PULSE RESPONSE
(ILOG = 1mA)
LOGARITHMIC SLOPE DISTRIBUTION
MAX4206 toc15
1µA TO 100nA
MAX4206 toc16
1.0V
30
25
0.75V
0.50V
100µA TO 10µA
20
COUNT (%)
10µA TO 1µA
0.50V
15
10
0.25V
5
0.25V
1mA TO 100µA
0
0
240
245
VREFVOUT DISTRIBUTION
260
255
RL = 100kΩ
20
INPUT OFFSET VOLTAGE = VLOGIIN - VCMVIN
14
MAX4206 toc18
INPUT OFFSET VOLTAGE DISTRIBUTION
16
MAX4206 toc17
25
250
SLOPE (mV/decade)
20µs/div
12
15
COUNT (%)
COUNT (%)
VLOGV1 (V)
0.75V
10
10
8
6
4
5
2
0
1.232 1.234
0
1.236 1.238
1.240 1.242
VREFVOUT (V)
1.244
-1.0 -0.5
0
0.5
1.0
1.5
2.0
2.5
3.0
INPUT OFFSET VOLTAGE (mV)
_______________________________________________________________________________________
7
MAX4206
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
1.27
1.26
1.25
1.24
1.23
1.22
1.40
1.35
1.30
1.25
1.20
1.15
1.10
1.21
1.05
1.20
1.00
-50
-25
0
25
50
TEMPERATURE (°C)
75
100
1.245
1.240
1.235
1.230
1.225
1.220
1.215
1.210
1.200
-1.0
-0.5
0
0.5
1.0
2
LOAD CURRENT (mA)
CREFVOUT = 0.1µF
IREFVOUT = 1mA
-20
3
4
SUPPLY VOLTAGE (V)
REFERENCE LINE-TRANSIENT RESPONSE
MAX4206 toc23
MAX4206 toc22
0
REFERENCE PSRR (dB)
1.250
1.205
REFERENCE POWER-SUPPLY
REJECTION RATIO vs. FREQUENCY
-10
REFERENCE OUTPUT VOLTAGE (VREFVOUT)
vs. SUPPLY VOLTAGE
MAX4206 toc21
1.28
1.45
REFERENCE OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
1.29
MAX4206 toc20
1.50
MAX4206 toc19
1.30
REFERENCE OUTPUT VOLTAGE (VREFVOUT)
vs. LOAD CURRENT
REFERENCE OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
REFERENCE OUTPUT VOLTAGE (VREFVOUT)
vs. TEMPERATURE
REFERENCE OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
VCC
2V/div
-30
0V
-40
-50
-60
-70
VREFVOUT
200mV/div
-80
-90
1.238V
CREFVOUT = 0F
-100
10
100
1k
10k
100k
1M
10µs/div
FREQUENCY (Hz)
REFERENCE LOAD-TRANSIENT RESPONSE
REFERENCE TURN-ON TRANSIENT RESPONSE
MAX4206 toc24
MAX4206 toc25
CREFVOUT = 0F
IREFVOUT
1mA/div
0mA
VCC
2.5V/div
0V
VREFVOUT
100mV/div
1.238V
VREFVOUT
500mV/div
0V
100µs/div
8
10µs/div
_______________________________________________________________________________________
5
6
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
-20
ILOG = 10µA
-30
ILOG = 1µA
-40
ILOG = 100µA
-10
ILOG = 10µA
-20
ILOG = 1µA
-30
ILOG = 100nA
-40
ILOG = 100nA
-50
10k
100k
1M
AV = 4V/V
-6
10M
-12
100
1k
10k
100k
1M
10M
10k
FREQUENCY (Hz)
FREQUENCY (Hz)
MAX4206 toc28
AV = 2V/V
-3
CCOMP = 100pF
RCOMP = 1kΩ
-60
-60
1k
AV = 1V/V
0
-9
-50
CCOMP = 33pF
RCOMP = 330Ω
100
3
NORMALIZED GAIN (dB)
ILOG = 1mA
-10
ILOG = 1mA
0
NORMALIZED GAIN (dB)
NORMALIZED GAIN (dB)
0
10
MAX4206 toc27
ILOG = 100µA
MAX4206 toc26
10
SMALL-SIGNAL AC RESPONSE
OF BUFFER
SMALL-SIGNAL AC RESPONSE
ILOG TO VLOGV1
SMALL-SIGNAL AC RESPONSE
ILOG TO VLOGV1
100k
1M
10M
100M
FREQUENCY (Hz)
Pin Description
PIN
NAME
FUNCTION
1, 9
N.C.
2
REFVOUT
No Connection. Not internally connected.
3
GND
Ground
4
VEE
Negative Power Supply. Bypass VEE to GND with a 0.1µF capacitor.
5
LOGV1
Logarithmic Amplifier Voltage Output 1. The output scale factor of LOGV1 is 0.25V/decade.
6
OSADJ
Offset Adjust Input. When operating from a single power supply, current applied to OSADJ adjusts
the output offset voltage (see the Output Offset section).
7
SCALE
Scale Factor Input. Adjust the output scale factor for LOGV2 using a resistive divider (see the Scale
Factor section).
8
LOGV2
Logarithmic Amplifier Voltage Output 2. Adjust the output scale factor for LOGV2 using a resistive
divider (see the Scale Factor section).
10
VCC
11
REFISET
Current Reference Adjust Input. A resistor, RSET, from REFISET to GND adjusts the current at
REFIOUT (see the Adjusting the Logarithmic Intercept section).
12
CMVOUT
0.5V Common-Mode Voltage Reference Output. Bypass CMVOUT to GND with a 0.1µF capacitor.
13
REFIOUT
1.238V Reference Voltage Output. Bypass REFVOUT to GND with a 0 to 1µF capacitor (optional).
Positive Power Supply. Bypass VCC to GND with a 0.1µF capacitor.
Current Reference Output. The internal current reference output is available at REFIOUT.
14
REFIIN
Current Reference Input. Apply an external reference current at REFIIN. IREFIIN is the reference
current used by the logarithmic amplifier when generating LOGV1.
15
LOGIIN
Current Input to Logarithmic Amplifier. LOGIIN is typically connected to a photodiode anode or other
external current source.
16
CMVIN
Common-Mode Voltage Input. VCMVIN is the common-mode voltage for the input and reference
amplifiers (see the Common Mode section).
_______________________________________________________________________________________
9
MAX4206
Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = +5V, VEE = GND = 0V, IREF = 1µA, ILOG = 10µA, LOGV2 = SCALE, LOGV1 = OSADJ, CMVIN = CMVOUT, RSET > 1MΩ,
TA = +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
VCC
REFVOUT
CMVOUT
CURRENT MIRROR
VCC
CURRENT
CORRECTION
LOGIIN
REFIOUT
1.238V
VCC
0.5V
CMVIN
VEE
REFISET
VCC
LOGV2
REFIIN
VCC
SUMMING
AMPLIFIER
AND
TEMPERATURE
COMPENSATION
SCALE
OSADJ
VEE
VEE
MAX4206
GND
LOGV1
Figure 1. Functional Diagram
Detailed Description
Theory
Figure 2 shows a simplified model of a logarithmic
amplifier. Two transistors convert the currents applied
at LOGIIN and REFIIN to logarithmic voltages according to the following equation:
I 
 kT 
VBE =   ln  C 
 q
 IS 
where:
VBE = base-emitter voltage of a bipolar transistor
k = 1.381 x 10-23 J/K
T = absolute temperature (K)
q = 1.602 x 10 –19 C
IC = collector current
IS = reverse saturation current
The logarithmic amplifier compares VBE1 to the reference voltage VBE2, which is a logarithmic voltage for a
known reference current, IREF. The temperature depen10
dencies of a logarithmic amplifier relate to the thermal
voltage, (KT/q), and IS. Matched transistors eliminate
the IS temperature dependence of the amplifier in the
following manner:
VOUT = VBE1 − VBE2
  kT   I

 kT   I
=   ln LOG  −   ln REF 
 q   IS   q   IS 
  ILOG 
I

− ln REF  
ln

 IS  
  IS 

 kT    I
=   ln LOG  
 q    IREF  

I

 kT 
=   (ln(10)) log10  LOG  
 q
 IREF  

I

= K × log10  LOG 
 IREF 
 kT 
= 
 q
______________________________________________________________________________________
(see Figure 3)
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
4
CMVIN
VEE
IREF
VCC
VBE2
REFIIN
NORMALIZED OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
LOGIIN
3
VOUT = K LOG (ILOG/IREF)
2
1
0
-1
-2
-3
-4
0.001
VEE
K=1
K = 0.5
K = 0.25
MAX4206 fig03
VCC
MAX4206
ILOG
IDEAL TRANSFER FUNCTION
WITH VARYING K
VBE1
0.1
10
1000
CURRENT RATIO (ILOG/IREF)
Figure 2. Simplified Model of a Logarithmic Amplifier
Figure 3. Ideal Transfer Function with Varying K
where:
K = scale factor (V/decade)
Referred-to-Input and Referred-to-Output Errors
The log nature of the MAX4206 insures that any additive error at LOGV1 corresponds to multiplicative error
at the input, regardless of input level.
ILOG = the input current at LOGIIN
IREF = the reference current at REFIIN
The MAX4206 uses internal temperature compensation
to virtually eliminate the effects of the thermal voltage,
(kT/q), on the amplifier’s scale factor, maintaining a
constant slope over temperature.
Definitions
Transfer Function
The ideal logarithmic amplifier transfer function is:
I

VIDEAL = K × log10  LOG 
I
 REF 
Adjust K (see the Scale Factor section) to increase the
transfer-function slope as illustrated in Figure 3. Adjust
IREF using REFISET (see the Adjusting the Logarithmic
Intercept section) to shift the logarithmic intercept to the
left or right as illustrated in Figure 4.
Log Conformity
Log conformity is the maximum deviation of the
MAX4206’s output from the best-fit straight line of the
VLOGV1 versus log (ILOG/IREF) curve. It is expressed as
a percent of the full-scale output or an output voltage.
Total Error
Total error, TE, is defined as the deviation of the output
voltage, VLOGV1, from the ideal transfer function (see
the Ideal Transfer Function section):
VLOGV1 = VIDEAL ± TE
Total error is a combination of the associated gain,
input offset current, input bias current, output offset
voltage, and transfer characteristic nonlinearity (log
conformity) errors:


I

−I
VLOGV 2 = K(1 ± ∆K) log10  LOG BIAS1  ± 4( ± VLC ± VOSOUT )
 IREF − IBIAS2 


where VLC and VOSOUT are the log conformity and output offset voltages, respectively. Output offset is
defined as the offset occurring at the output of the
MAX4206 when equal currents are presented to ILOG
and IREF. Because the MAX4206 is configured with
a gain of K = 0.25V/decade, a 4 should multiply the
(±VLC ±VOSOUT) term, if VLC and VOSOUT were derived
from this default configuration.
______________________________________________________________________________________
11
IBIAS1 and IBIAS2 are currents on the order of 20pA,
significantly smaller than ILOG and IREF, and can therefore be eliminated:
IDEAL TRANSFER FUNCTION
WITH VARYING IREF


I

VLOGV 2 ≅ K(1± ∆K) log10  LOG  ± 4( ± VLC ± VOSOUT )
 IREF 


Expanding this expression:
I

I

VLOGV 2 ≅ K log10  LOG  ± K∆K log10  LOG 
 IREF 
 IREF 
± 4K(1 ± ∆K)( ± VLC ± VOSOUT )
The first term of this expression is the ideal component
of VLOGV1. The remainder of the expression is the total
error, TE:
1.0
IREF = 10nA
0.5
0
-0.5
IREF = 100µA
IREF = 1µA
-1.0
-1.5
1n
I

TE ≅ ±K∆K log10  LOG  ± 4K(1 ± ∆K)( ± VLC ± VOSOUT )
 IREF 
In the second term, one can generally remove the
products relating to ∆K, because ∆K is generally much
less than 1. Hence, a good approximation for TE is
given by:


I

TE ≅ ±K  ∆K log10  LOG  ± 4( ± VLC ± VOSOUT )
 IREF 


As an example, consider the following situation:
Full-scale input = 5V
ILOG = 100µA
IREF = 100nA
K = 1 ±5% V/decade (note that the uncommitted amplifier is configured for a gain of 4)
VLC = ±5mV (obtained from the Electrical Characteristics table)
VOSOUT = ±2mV (typ)
TA = +25°C
Substituting into the total error approximation,
TE ≅ ± (1V/decade)(0.05log 10 (100µA/100nA)
±4 (±5mV ±2mV) = ±[0.15V ±4(±7mV)]
As a worst case, one finds TE ≅ ±178mV or ±3.6% of
full scale.
When expressed as a voltage, TE increases in proportion
with an increase in gain as the contributing errors are
defined at a specific gain. Calibration using a look-up
table eliminates the effects of gain and output offset
errors, leaving conformity error as the only factor con12
MAX4206 fig04
1.5
OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
10n
100n
1µ
10µ
100µ
1m
ILOG (A)
Figure 4. Ideal Transfer Function with Varying IREF
tributing to total error. For further accuracy, consider temperature monitoring as part of the calibration process.
Applications Information
Input Current Range
Five decades of input current across a 10nA to 1mA
range are acceptable for ILOG and IREF. The effects of
leakage currents increase as ILOG and IREF fall below
10nA. Bandwidth decreases at low ILOG values (see
the Frequency Response and Noise Considerations
section). As ILOG and IREF increase to 1mA or higher,
transistors become less logarithmic in nature. The
MAX4206 incorporates leakage current compensation
and high-current correction circuits to compensate for
these errors.
Frequency Compensation
The MAX4206’s frequency response is a function of the
input current magnitude and the selected compensation
network at LOGIIN and REFIIN. The compensation network comprised of CCOMP and RCOMP ensures stability
over the specified range of input currents by introducing
an additional pole/zero to the system. For the typical
application, select CCOMP = 100pF and RCOMP = 100Ω.
Where high bandwidth at low current is required, CCOMP
= 32pF and R COMP = 330Ω are suitable compensation values.
______________________________________________________________________________________
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
Select R1 between 1kΩ and 100kΩ, with an ideal value
of 10kΩ. The noninverting amplifier ensures that the
overall scale factor is greater than or equal to
0.25V/decade for single-supply operation.
Common Mode
Design Example
Desired:
Single-Supply Operation
Logarithmic intercept: 100nA
Overall scale factor = 1V/decade
Because there is no offset current applied to the circuit
(ROS = 0Ω), the reference current, IREF, equals the log
intercept of 100µA. Therefore,
A common-mode input voltage, VCMVOUT, of 0.5V is
available at CMVOUT and can be used to bias the logging and reference amplifier inputs by connecting
CMVOUT to CMVIN. An external voltage between 0.5V
and 1V can be applied to CMVIN to bias the logging
and reference transistor collectors and to optimize the
performance required for both single- and dual-supply
operation.
Adjusting the Logarithmic Intercept
Adjust the logarithmic intercept by changing the reference current, IREF. A resistor from REFISET to GND
(see Figures 5 and 6) adjusts the reference current,
according to the following equation:
V
RSET = REFISET
10 × IREF
where VREFISET is 0.5V. Select RSET between 5kΩ and
5MΩ. REFIOUT current range is 10nA to 10µA only.
Single-Supply Operation
When operating from a single +2.7V to +11V supply,
ILOG must be greater than IREF, resulting in a positive
slope of the log output voltages, LOGV1 and LOGV2.
Bias the log and reference amplifiers by connecting
CMVOUT to CMVIN or connecting an external voltage
reference between 0.5V and 1V to CMVIN. For singlesupply operation, connect VEE to GND.
Output Offset
Select ROS and IOS to adjust the output offset voltage
(see Figure 5). The magnitude of the offset voltage is
given by:
VOS = ROS ✕ IOSADJ
Scale Factor
The scale factor, K, is the slope of the logarithmic output. For the LOGV1 amplifier, K = 0.25V/decade. When
operating in a single-supply configuration, adjust the
overall scale factor for the MAX4206 using the uncommitted LOGV2 amplifier and the following equation,
which refers to Figure 5:
 K

R2 = R1 
− 1
 0.25 
RSET =
0.5V
= 500kΩ
10 × 100nA
Select R1 = 10kΩ:
 1V/ V 
R2 = 10kΩ
− 1 = 30kΩ
 0.25 
Dual-Supply Operation
When operating from dual ±2.7 to ±5.5V supplies, it is
not required that ILOG be greater than IREF. A positive
output voltage results at LOGV1 when ILOG exceeds
IREF. A negative output voltage results at LOGV1 when
I LOG is less than I REF . Bias the log and reference
amplifiers by connecting CMVOUT to CMVIN or connect an external 0.5V to 1V reference to CMVIN. For
dual-supply operation with CMVIN < 0.5V, refer to the
MAX4207 data sheet.
Output Offset
The uncommitted amplifier in the inverting configuration
utilized by the MAX4206 facilitates large output-offset
voltage adjustments when operated with dual supplies.
The magnitude of the offset voltage is given by the following equation:
 R 
VOS = VOSADJ 1 + 2 
 R1 
A resistive divider between REFVOUT, OSADJ, and
GND can be used to adjust VOSADJ (see Figure 6).
 R4 
VOSADJ = VREFOUT 

 R3 + R4 
______________________________________________________________________________________
13
MAX4206
Frequency Response and Noise Considerations
The MAX4206 bandwidth is proportional to the magnitude of the IREF and ILOG currents, whereas the noise is
inversely proportional to IREF and ILOG currents.
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
VCC
VCC
IIN
IIN
0.1µF
0.1µF
VCC
LOGV2
LOGIIN
CCOMP
100pF
LOGV2
CCOMP
100pF
0.1µF
CMVIN
0.1µF
REFISET
OSADJ
GND
RSET
500kΩ
RSET
50kΩ
VEE
R3
CMVOUT
OSADJ
ROS
0Ω
REFISET
LOGV1
REFVOUT
CMVIN
CMVOUT
LOGV1
0.1µF
R1
10kΩ
MAX4206
RCOMP
100Ω
MAX4206
REFVOUT
SCALE
REFIIN
CCOMP
100pF
R1
10kΩ
RCOMP
100Ω
R2
40kΩ
REFIOUT
RCOMP
100Ω
SCALE
REFIIN
R4
GND
VEE
VEE
Figure 5. Single-Supply Typical Operating Circuit
Scale Factor
The scale factor, K, is the slope of the logarithmic output.
For the LOGV1 amplifier, K = 0.25V/decade. When operating from dual supplies, adjust the overall scale factor
for the MAX4206 using the uncommitted LOGV2 amplifier and the following equation, which refers to Figure 6:
 K 
R2 = R1

 0.25 
Select R2 between 1kΩ and 100kΩ.
Design Example
Desired:
Dual-Supply Operation
Logarithmic intercept: 1µA
Overall scale factor = 1V/decade
0.5V
RSET =
= 50kΩ
10 × 1µA
Select R1 = 10kΩ:
 1V / decade 
R2 = 10kΩ × 
 = 40kΩ


0.25
14
VOUT
LOGIIN
CCOMP
100pF
R2
30kΩ
REFIOUT
RCOMP
100Ω
VCC
VOUT
0.1µF
Figure 6. Dual-Supply Typical Operating Circuit
Measuring Optical Absorbance
A photodiode provides a convenient means of measuring optical power, as diode current is proportional to
the incident optical power. Measure absolute optical
power using a single photodiode connected at LOGIIN,
with the MAX4206’s internal current reference driving
REFIIN. Alternatively, connect a photodiode to each of
the MAX4206’s logging inputs, LOGIIN and REFIIN, to
measure relative optical power (Figure 7).
In absorbance measurement instrumentation, a reference light source is split into two paths. The unfiltered
path is incident upon the photodiode of the reference
channel, REFIIN. The other path passes through a sample of interest, with the resulting filtered light incident on
the photodiode of the second channel, LOGIIN. The
MAX4206 outputs provide voltages proportional to the
log ratio of the two optical powers—an indicator of the
optical absorbance of the sample.
In wavelength-locking applications, often found in
fiberoptic communication modules, two photodiode currents provide a means of determining whether a given
optical channel is tuned to the desired optical frequency.
In this application, two bandpass optical filters with overlapping “skirts” precede each photodiode. With proper filter selection, the MAX4206 output can vary monotonically
(ideally linearly) with optical frequency.
______________________________________________________________________________________
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
Capacitive Loads
The MAX4206 drives capacitive loads of up to 50pF.
Reactive loads decrease phase margin and can produce excessive ringing and oscillation. Use an isolation
resistor in series with LOGV1 or LOGV2 to reduce the
effect of large capacitive loads. Recall that the combination of the capacitive load and the small isolation
resistor limits AC performance.
Power Dissipation
The LOGV1 and LOGV2 amplifiers are capable of
sourcing or sinking in excess of 30mA. Ensure that the
continuous power dissipation rating for the MAX4206 is
not exceeded.
TQFN Package
The 16-lead thin QFN package has an exposed paddle
that provides a heat-removal path, as well as excellent
electrical grounding to the PC board. The MAX4206’s
exposed pad is internally connected to VEE, and can
either be connected to the PC board VEE plane or left
unconnected. Ensure that only VEE traces are routed
under the exposed paddle.
VCC
0.1µF
VCC
CMVIN
REFISET
REFIIN
0.1µF
CMVOUT
REFVOUT
100pF
0.1µF
LOGV2
VCC
R2
MAX4206
100Ω
SCALE
LOGV1
R3
LOGIIN
R1
100pF
OSADJ
REFIOUT
100Ω
GND
VEE
R4
Figure 7. Measuring Optical Absorbance
noise immunity and a clean reference current. For lowcurrent operation, it is recommended to use metal
guard rings around LOGIIN, REFIIN, and REFISET.
Connect this guard ring to CMVOUT.
Evaluation Kit
An evaluation kit is available for the MAX4206. The kit is
flexible and can be configured for either single-supply or
dual-supply operation. The scale factor and reference
current are selectable. Refer to the MAX4206 Evaluation
Kit data sheet for more information.
Chip Information
Layout and Bypassing
Bypass V CC and V EE to GND with ceramic 0.1µF
capacitors. Place the capacitors as close to the device
as possible. Bypass REFVOUT and/or CMVOUT to
GND with a 0.1µF ceramic capacitor for increased
MAX4206
Photodiode Current Monitoring
Figure 8 shows the MAX4206 in a single-supply, opticalpower measurement circuit, common in fiberoptic
applications. The MAX4007 current monitor converts
the sensed APD current to an output current that drives
the MAX4206 LOGIIN input (APD current is scaled by
0.1). The MAX4007 also buffers the high-voltage APD
voltages from the lower MAX4206 voltages. The
MAX4206’s internal current reference sources 10nA
(RSET = 5MΩ) to the REFIIN input. This configuration
sets the logarithmic intercept to 10nA, corresponding to
an APD current of 100nA. The unity-gain configuration
of the output buffer maintains the 0.25V/decade gain
present at the LOGV1 output.
TRANSISTOR COUNT: 754
PROCESS: BiCMOS
______________________________________________________________________________________
15
MAX4206
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
VCC
+2.7V TO +76V
2.2µH
2.2µF
PHOTODIODE BIAS
0.22µF
0.1µF
BIAS
VCC
CLAMP
OUTPUT
0.1µF
REFVOUT
LOGV2
REFIOUT
SCALE
REFIIN
MAX4007
100pF
MAX4206
LOGV1
OSADJ
100Ω
REFISET
IAPD/10
IAPD
5MΩ
OUT
REF
100pF
GND
FIBER CABLE
CMVOUT
CMVIN
100Ω
0.1µF
APD
GND
TIA
VEE
TO LIMITING
AMPLIFIER
HIGH-SPEED DATA PATH
Figure 8. Logarithmic Current-Sensing Amplifier with Sourcing Input
16
______________________________________________________________________________________
Precision Transimpedance Logarithmic
Amplifier with Over 5 Decades of Dynamic Range
24L QFN THIN.EPS
PACKAGE OUTLINE
12,16,20,24L QFN THIN, 4x4x0.8 mm
21-0139
B
1
2
PACKAGE OUTLINE
12,16,20,24L QFN THIN, 4x4x0.8 mm
21-0139
B
2
2
Maxim cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim product. No circuit patent licenses are
implied. Maxim reserves the right to change the circuitry and specifications without notice at any time.
Maxim Integrated Products, 120 San Gabriel Drive, Sunnyvale, CA 94086 408-737-7600 ____________________ 17
© 2003 Maxim Integrated Products
Printed USA
is a registered trademark of Maxim Integrated Products.
MAX4206
Package Information
(The package drawing(s) in this data sheet may not reflect the most current specifications. For the latest package outline information,
go to www.maxim-ic.com/packages.)