ICL3221CAZ

Overview

The ICL3221CAZ is a single-driver, single-receiver RS-232 transceiver from the ICL32xxE series by Renesas Electronics. It operates on a single power supply ranging from 3V to 5.5V and supports full-duplex communication with data rates up to 500 kb/s. The device features an internal charge pump for voltage generation and includes automatic power-down functionality to reduce standby current to 1 µA. It provides ±15 kV ESD protection on RS-232 pins and meets EIA/TIA-232 standards. Packaged in a 16-pin SSOP, it is designed for low-power applications such as portable electronics.

Feature Summary

• Automatic power-down mode reduces standby current to 1 µA when the cable is disconnected or peripheral is off
• Integrated charge pump eliminates external high-voltage requirements
• Robust ±15 kV ESD protection on RS-232 I/O pins per IEC61000-4-2 standard
• Single-supply operation compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic systems

Applications

• Portable computers and notebook PCs requiring low standby power
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and handheld devices
• Industrial control systems with RS-232 serial interfaces
• Battery-powered equipment needing extended operational life

Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix 'CAZ' indicates commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C) and tube packaging. Confirm RoHS compliance status via official datasheet. Check moisture sensitivity level before reflow soldering. Ensure ordering quantity matches tube pack size of 770 units. Validate pinout compatibility if replacing legacy MAX221E designs.

Selection Notes

Select this component for single-channel RS-232 communication in space-constrained designs. Choose over ICL3222E if only one transmitter and receiver are needed. Consider ICL3221CVZ for TSSOP package preference. Verify system voltage stays within 3V to 5.5V range. Ensure load capacitance allows for required data rate performance under worst-case conditions.

Part Context

Part of the ICL32xxE family offering low-power RS-232 solutions. Replaces older 5V-only transceivers like MAX221E with improved power efficiency. Compatible with mixed 3.3V/5V systems. Offers pin-for-pin replacement for many industry-standard parts while reducing quiescent current significantly.

Replacement Considerations

Direct pin-compatible replacement for Maxim MAX221E. Equivalent function to Intersil ISL3221. Verify thermal grade differences between CAZ (commercial) and other suffixes. Check if automatic power-down feature is required; if not, simpler alternatives may exist.