The MAX1473 is a fully integrated low-power CMOS super-heterodyne receiver that is ideal for receiving amplitude-shift-keyed (ASK) data in the 300MHz to 450MHz frequency range. Its signal range is from -114dBm to 0dBm. With few external components and a low-current power-down mode, it is ideal for cost- and power-sensitive applications typical in the automotive and consumer markets. The chip consists of a low-noise amplifier (LNA), a fully differential image-rejection mixer, an on-chip phase-locked-loop (PLL) with integrated voltage-controlled oscillator (VCO), a 10.7MHz IF limiting amplifier stage with received-signal-strength indicator (RSSI), and analog baseband data-recovery circuitry. The MAX1473 also has a discrete one-step automatic gain control (AGC) that drops the LNA gain by 35dB when the RF input signal is greater than -57dBm. The MAX1473 is available in 28-pin TSSOP and 32-pin thin QFN packages. Both versions are specified for the extended (-40°C to +85°C) temperature range.
The MAX1473 is a fully integrated low‑power CMOS super‑heterodyne receiver designed for ASK data in the 300 MHz to 450 MHz band. It includes a low‑noise amplifier, image‑rejection mixer, on‑chip PLL/VCO, IF limiting amplifier, RSSI, and baseband data‑recovery circuitry, with a one‑step AGC that reduces LNA gain by 35 dB when the input exceeds –57 dBm. The device is offered in 28‑pin TSSOP and 32‑pin thin QFN packages and operates from a single 3.3 V or 5.0 V supply.
Key performance figures include a sensitivity of –114 dBm, a startup time of 250 µs, and an operating temperature range of –40 °C to +85 °C. The datasheet also provides detailed absolute maximum ratings, DC and AC electrical characteristics, pin descriptions, functional diagrams, and package information for designers.
| Frequency range | 300 MHz – 450 MHz |
|---|---|
| Sensitivity | -114 dBm |
| Supply voltage (typical) | 3.3 V |
| Supply current (typical, 3.3 V) | 5.2 mA |
| Startup time | 250 µs |
| AGC gain reduction | 35 dB |
| Package types | 28‑pin TSSOP, 32‑pin Thin QFN |
The device operates from a single 3.3 V or 5.0 V supply, with a nominal supply voltage of 3.3 V.
When the RF input signal exceeds –57 dBm, the one‑step AGC reduces the LNA gain by 35 dB.
The receiver supports ASK data in the 315 MHz or 433 MHz ISM bands within a 300 MHz to 450 MHz overall range.
It is available in a 28‑pin TSSOP package and a 32‑pin thin QFN package.