ICL3221IA

Overview

The ICL3221IA is a single driver/receiver RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Intersil. It operates from a single +3V to +5.5V supply and includes on-chip charge pumps to generate the required ±10V RS-232 voltage levels. The device features automatic powerdown functionality, reducing standby current to approximately 1µA when no receiver activity is detected. It provides ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 I/O pins and meets EIA/TIA-232 specifications at 3V operation. The component is available in SSOP-16 packaging.

Feature Summary

• Automatic powerdown circuit reduces standby supply current significantly
• On-chip charge pumps eliminate external capacitor requirements for voltage generation
• Provides ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 input and output pins
• Operates compliant with EIA/TIA-232 standards using a single low-voltage supply

Applications

• Portable computers and notebook systems requiring low standby power
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and palmtop devices
• ISDN terminal adaptors and peripheral interfaces
• Battery-powered equipment utilizing mixed 3.3V and 5V logic systems

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'IA' against official Renesas or Intersil documentation to confirm industrial temperature range classification. Confirm package type corresponds to SSOP-16 as indicated in public records. Ensure RoHS compliance status matches current manufacturing revisions before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring minimal quiescent current during idle periods. The integrated charge pump design simplifies board layout by reducing external component count. Verify that the data rate requirements align with the device's specified transmission capabilities under the target supply voltage conditions.

Part Context

This part belongs to the Intersil ICL32XXE family of low-power RS-232 transceivers designed for 3V to 5.5V operation. It serves as a direct replacement for legacy 5V-only drivers like the MAX207E in modern portable electronics. The series emphasizes power efficiency through automatic shutdown mechanisms while maintaining standard RS-232 signal integrity.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly documented equivalents include the MAX207E and HIN207E for 5V systems, though voltage compatibility differs. Verify pinout compatibility if substituting with other single-driver RS-232 ICs from different manufacturers.