HIN240CN

Overview

The HIN240CN is a high-speed, low-power CMOS RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Harris Corporation. It integrates two drivers and two receivers on a single chip, designed for portable applications requiring extended battery life. The device operates from a single +5V power supply and features true RS-232 levels at output voltages of +/- 5V typical. It includes internal charge pumps that generate the required positive and negative supply voltages from the single +5V input, eliminating the need for external components. The unit supports data rates up to 120 kbps and offers ESD protection exceeding +/- 15kV according to the Human Body Model.

Feature Summary

• Integrated dual charge pump circuitry eliminates the requirement for external capacitors or split power supplies.
• Operates on a single +5V DC power source while delivering standard RS-232 signal levels.
• Provides electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection compliant with industry human body model standards.

Applications

• Portable computers and laptop serial communication interfaces
• Battery-powered industrial handheld terminals
• Medical equipment requiring isolated serial data links

Procurement Notes

Verify the manufacturer origin carefully, as Harris Corporation's semiconductor assets were acquired by Renesas Electronics. Ensure the specific batch date code aligns with current availability requirements. Confirm whether the component is a new old stock item or a refurbished unit, as original Harris branding may no longer be actively produced under that specific corporate entity name.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems that require RS-232 connectivity but are constrained by space and power limitations. It serves as a direct replacement for older discrete transistor-based solutions or larger DIP packages. Consider the 120 kbps speed limit; if higher baud rates are necessary, newer iterations such as the MAX3232 series should be evaluated instead.

Part Context

This component belongs to the family of interface transceivers developed during the era when Harris Semiconductor was an independent entity. Following the acquisition of Harris Semiconductor by Intersil, and subsequently by Renesas Electronics, production rights transferred. The HIN prefix specifically denotes Harris Integrated Network components, marking it as a legacy part within modern electronic design libraries.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX3232E is a widely documented pin-compatible alternative offering similar functionality with potentially improved noise immunity. Other equivalents include the SP3232 and the ADM3232. Verify voltage tolerance levels and package dimensions before substituting, as minor electrical differences may exist between the original Harris specification and modern clones.