ICL3217CA

Overview

The Intersil ICL3217CA is a low-power RS-232 transceiver designed for operation with supply voltages ranging from +3V to +5.5V. It integrates one driver and three receivers, supporting data rates up to 250 kbps while meeting EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications at the lower voltage limit. The device features an automatic powerdown function that reduces standby current to approximately 1 µA when no valid RS-232 signal is detected on receiver inputs. It includes efficient on-chip charge pumps requiring only small external capacitors and provides ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 I/O pins.

Feature Summary

• Automatic powerdown circuitry significantly reduces standby supply current without hardware modifications
• Integrated charge pumps enable operation with small, low-value external capacitors
• Provides ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 input and output pins

Applications

• ISDN Terminal Adaptors
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and Palmtops
• Notebook and laptop computers
• Portable peripheral devices

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix against manufacturer documentation, as suffixes often denote temperature range or packaging variations rather than functional changes. Confirm RoHS compliance status if required for the target assembly process. Check current availability as older interface components may have limited stock or end-of-life status. Ensure the selected package matches the PCB footprint requirements.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring low power consumption in portable systems operating between 3V and 5.5V. It serves as a direct replacement for legacy 5V-only RS-232 drivers like the MAX207E. Verify that the 250 kbps data rate meets system requirements. Ensure the design accommodates the required external capacitors for the internal charge pumps.

Part Context

The ICL3217CA belongs to the ICL32X7E family of low-power RS-232 transceivers manufactured by Intersil, now part of Renesas Electronics. This series was engineered to address the power constraints of emerging portable electronics in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The 'CA' suffix typically indicates a commercial temperature range variant within the broader ICL3217E product line.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly documented equivalents include the MAX207E, HIN207E, and HIN237E. These parts offer similar functionality but may require different external capacitor values or pin configurations. Verify pin compatibility and electrical characteristics before substitution.