HIN237ECA

Overview

The HIN237ECA is a dual RS-232 line transceiver manufactured by Harris Corporation. It integrates two drivers and two receivers on a single CMOS chip, designed to provide full RS-232 data transmission and reception for personal computers and portable instruments. The device operates from a single +5V power supply and includes charge pumps that generate the required positive and negative voltages for RS-232 communication without external components. It features Schmitt-trigger inputs on receivers for noise filtering and offers low-power shutdown modes.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual drivers and dual receivers in a compact package
• Internal charge pumps eliminate need for external capacitors
• Schmitt-trigger receiver inputs improve noise immunity
• Supports data rates up to 120 kbps

Applications

• RS-232 serial port implementations in PCs
• Portable battery-powered instruments
• Modem interface circuits
• Industrial control systems requiring RS-232 connectivity

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity through authorized distributors or direct manufacturer channels. Confirm RoHS compliance status as original documentation indicates non-compliance. Check manufacturing date codes and packaging integrity to ensure storage conditions have not degraded performance. Validate pinout compatibility with target PCB layout before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing dual-channel RS-232 interfaces requiring minimal external passive components. Ensure the application supports +5V logic levels and operates within the specified temperature range. Consider pin-compatible alternatives if lead-free compliance is mandatory for the target market. Verify voltage tolerance for I/O pins interfacing with microcontrollers.

Part Context

The HIN237ECA belongs to Harris Corporation's HIN232/HIN237 family of RS-232 transceivers. This series was widely adopted in the 1990s and early 2000s for serial communication applications. Harris Semiconductor later became part of Intersil, which was subsequently acquired by Renesas Electronics. The component represents legacy technology still used in maintenance and industrial retrofit projects.

Replacement Considerations

Pin-compatible replacements include MAX232A and MAX233 from Maxim Integrated. STMicroelectronics offers the SP3232E as an alternative. Verify electrical specifications match requirements, particularly output voltage levels and current drive capabilities. Check availability of modern equivalents if long-term supply stability is required.