The binary to MLT-3 conversion is accomplished by converting the serial binary data stream output from the NRZI encoder into two binary data streams with alternately phased logic one events. These two binary streams are then fed to the twisted pair output driver which converts the voltage to current and alternately drives either side of the transmit transformer primary winding, resulting in a minimal current MLT-3 signal.

The 100BASE-TX MLT-3 signal sourced by the PMD output pair common driver is slew rate controlled. This should be considered when selecting AC coupling magnetics to ensure TP-PMD standard compliant transition times (3 ns < T_RISE (and T_FALL) < 5 ns).