ICL232IPE

Overview

The ICL232IPE is a dual RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Harris Corporation, designed for serial communication in low-power environments. It operates on a single power supply ranging from 3.0V to 5.5V and meets EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications even at the minimum voltage of 3.0V. The device integrates efficient on-chip charge pumps that require only four external 0.1µF capacitors, eliminating the need for external voltage sources. It features manual and automatic power-down modes to minimize standby current consumption. The unit provides ±15kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on all RS-232 pins, ensuring robust performance in portable applications such as notebooks and PDAs.

Feature Summary

• Integrated charge pump circuitry requiring minimal external capacitance
• Low standby power consumption with automatic and manual shutdown capabilities
• High-level electrostatic discharge protection on interface pins

Applications

• Portable computers and notebook systems
• Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
• Battery-powered handheld devices

Procurement Notes

Verify the manufacturer designation carefully, as Intersil was acquired by Renesas Technology. Ensure the specific suffix matches the required package type and temperature range. Confirm RoHS compliance status if environmental regulations apply to the target assembly. Cross-reference datasheets between original Harris documentation and subsequent Renesas updates to ensure pinout and electrical characteristics remain consistent across production eras.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems requiring RS-232 connectivity within strict power budgets. It serves as a direct replacement for legacy MAX232 variants while offering superior low-voltage operation. Consider the ICL32xxE series for enhanced ESD ratings or additional drivers if system requirements exceed the dual driver/receiver configuration provided by this specific model.

Part Context

This part belongs to the ICL232 family of RS-232 transceivers originally developed by Harris Semiconductor. Following corporate acquisitions, the product line transitioned through Intersil to Renesas Technology. The ICL232IPE specifically denotes the industrial temperature grade variant housed in a plastic DIP package, maintaining compatibility with standard TTL/CMOS logic levels for microcontroller interfacing.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitutes include the MAX232 and SP3232. These components offer functional equivalence but may differ in operating voltage ranges or ESD protection specifications. Verify that alternative parts support the 3.0V minimum supply requirement if used in low-voltage designs.