ICL3232CBNZ

Overview

The ICL3232CBNZ is a low-power RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Renesas Electronics Corporation, designed for operation within a single +3V to +5.5V power supply range. It integrates three drivers and five receivers, ensuring compliance with EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications even at the minimum 3.0V supply voltage. The device features an efficient on-chip charge pump requiring only four external 0.1µF capacitors. It guarantees a data rate of at least 250kbps and includes automatic shutdown functionality that reduces standby current to 1µA when no valid RS-232 signal is detected.

Feature Summary

• Automatic shutdown circuitry minimizes power consumption in portable applications by disabling internal circuits during idle states.
• Integrated charge pump eliminates the need for external dual-voltage supplies, simplifying board layout.
• Receiver hysteresis enhances noise immunity for reliable communication in electrically noisy environments.
• High electrostatic discharge protection rating ensures robustness against human body model events.

Applications

• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and handheld devices
• Laptops and notebook computers
• Modems and peripheral equipment
• Digital cameras and cellular/mobile phones

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'CBNZ' corresponds to the required temperature range and package variant. Confirm RoHS compliance status through official manufacturer documentation or certified distributor declarations. Ensure the ordering information matches the exact pinout and electrical characteristics defined in the latest datasheet revision to avoid integration errors.

Selection Notes

Select this component for systems requiring full RS-232 compatibility with minimal external passive components. It is suitable for mixed 3.3V and 5.0V logic interfaces. Consider the 28-pin SSOP package constraints regarding thermal dissipation and PCB space. Evaluate the 1µA shutdown current benefit against the wake-up time requirements of the host system.

Part Context

This device belongs to the Intersil/Renesas ICL32xx family of low-power RS-232 transceivers. It serves as a direct upgrade and pin-compatible replacement for older high-power counterparts like the MAX232 series. The ICL3232 variant specifically provides the 3-driver/5-receiver configuration necessary for complete serial port implementations in compact mobile electronics.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitute part numbers include the MAX3232EIDW from Texas Instruments. Verify pin-to-pin compatibility and electrical parameter alignment before substitution. Check for any differences in operating temperature ranges or package dimensions between the original and replacement parts.