ICL3221EMVZ

Overview

The ICL3221EMVZ is a single driver and receiver RS-232 transceiver from the Renesas ICL32xxE series, designed for 3.0V to 5.5V operation. It meets EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications at 3.0V supply voltage. The device features ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 pins per IEC61000-4-2 standards. It includes an efficient on-chip charge pump requiring only four external 0.1µF capacitors. Manual and automatic power-down functions reduce standby current to 1µA. Data rates exceed 250kbps under worst-case load conditions.

Feature Summary

• Provides ±15kV electrostatic discharge protection on transmitter outputs and receiver inputs.
• Integrates manual and automatic power-down modes to minimize standby power consumption.
• Utilizes an internal charge pump with minimal external capacitor requirements.
• Ensures data transmission rates greater than 250kbps at low supply voltages.

Applications

• Battery-powered handheld devices
• Laptop computers and notebooks
• Personal digital assistants (PDAs)
• Portable modems and printers

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'MVZ' against the manufacturer's official datasheet to confirm package type and temperature range. Ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints when replacing legacy components like the MAX3221E. Confirm RoHS compliance status for environmental regulations. Validate that the 3.0V operating voltage aligns with the target system's power architecture.

Selection Notes

Select this component for systems requiring low-power RS-232 communication in portable environments. It serves as a drop-in replacement for the MAX3221E, simplifying design upgrades. The automatic power-down feature is critical for extending battery life in infrequently used serial ports. Verify that the 16-pin SSOP package fits the available board space constraints.

Part Context

This device belongs to the ICL32xxE family of low-power RS-232 transceivers manufactured by Renesas Electronics. The series is engineered to replace older 5V CMOS devices with lower voltage alternatives. It maintains pin compatibility with previous generations while offering enhanced ESD protection and reduced current draw. The ICL3221 variant specifically provides one driver and one receiver channel.

Replacement Considerations

The ICL3221EMVZ is documented as a direct drop-in replacement for the Maxim MAX3221E. Designers upgrading from 5V MAX221E devices should verify voltage level compatibility. No hardware or OS changes are required for the automatic power-down functionality.