ICL3225CAZ

Overview

The ICL3225CAZ is a low-power RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Renesas Electronics Corporation, designed for operation with supply voltages ranging from 3.0 V to 5.5 V. This device integrates one driver and two receivers, supporting full-duplex communication at data rates up to 1 Mbps. It features enhanced automatic powerdown functionality that reduces operating supply current to approximately 1 µA when no valid signal is present on the receiver inputs. The component provides ±15 kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on all RS-232 lines and operates within an industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C. It is housed in a compact SSOP-20 package suitable for surface-mount applications.

Feature Summary

• Enhanced automatic powerdown circuitry significantly reduces power consumption during idle states by detecting inactive receiver inputs.
• Integrated ±15 kV ESD protection on all RS-232 interface pins ensures robustness against electrostatic discharge events without external components.
• Single-supply operation compatible with both 3 V and 5 V logic systems simplifies integration into various embedded designs.

Applications

• Portable battery-powered equipment requiring low standby current
• Industrial control systems with harsh electrical environments
• Communication modules in mobile devices and handheld instruments

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'CAZ' against official Renesas documentation to confirm the exact temperature grade and packaging variant. Ensure compatibility with the target PCB footprint for the SSOP-20 package. Check for moisture sensitivity level requirements during storage and handling procedures as specified in the datasheet.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems that require RS-232 connectivity with strict power budget constraints. The automatic powerdown feature makes it suitable for always-on applications where minimizing quiescent current is critical. Confirm that the required data rate does not exceed 1 Mbps and that the operating voltage aligns with the 3 V to 5.5 V specification.

Part Context

The ICL3225CAZ belongs to the Intersil ICL32XXE family of RS-232 transceivers, which were acquired by Renesas Electronics. This series is characterized by its low-power architecture and high reliability features, including enhanced ESD protection. It serves as a direct replacement for older generation RS-232 chips in modern low-voltage digital systems.

Replacement Considerations

Compatible substitutes include the ICL3225ECAZ and ICL3225IAZ, differing primarily in temperature ranges and packaging options. Verify pinout compatibility before substitution. Other family members like the ICL3227E offer similar functionality but may have different driver/receiver configurations.