ICL3232ECA-T

Overview

The ICL3232ECA-T is a dual driver and dual receiver RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Renesas Electronics (formerly Intersil). It operates within a supply voltage range of 3 V to 5.5 V, supporting both 3.3 V and 5 V logic systems. The device guarantees data rates up to 250 kb/s while maintaining full RS-232 output levels. It features an active mode operating current of 1 mA and includes enhanced automatic powerdown functionality that reduces standby current to less than 30 µA when no valid signal is present on the receivers. The component provides 15 kV ESD protection on all RS-232 lines and is housed in a 16-pin SSOP package.

Feature Summary

• Integrated automatic powerdown circuitry significantly reduces quiescent current during idle periods to extend battery life in portable applications.
• Provides robust electrostatic discharge protection rated at 15 kV on transmitter inputs, receiver outputs, and control pins.
• Ensures compliance with EIA/TIA-232 standards across the full 3 V to 5.5 V supply voltage range without requiring external negative voltage generation.

Applications

• Battery-powered portable computers and subnotebooks
• Handheld communication equipment and mobile terminals
• Industrial control systems requiring low-power serial interfaces

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'T' indicates tape-and-reel packaging configuration. Confirm RoHS compliance status through official Renesas documentation, as manufacturing origins may vary. Ensure the SSOP-16 footprint matches the target PCB design constraints. Cross-reference the manufacturer part number with current Renesas catalogs to confirm active status and availability.

Selection Notes

Select this component for designs requiring full-duplex RS-232 communication with minimal power consumption. It is suitable for replacing older CMOS-based transceivers that lack integrated power management. Consider the 250 kb/s speed limit when designing for high-throughput serial links. Verify that the 16-pin SSOP package fits within the available board space and thermal requirements.

Part Context

This device belongs to the ICL3232 family of low-power RS-232 transceivers. It shares functional similarities with the ST3232C and MAX3232 series but distinguishes itself through specific power-down thresholds and Intersil's proprietary capacitor-less or reduced-capacitor design approaches depending on the exact revision. It serves as a bridge between microcontroller UARTs and standard RS-232 ports.

Replacement Considerations

• ICL3232CVZ-T
• ICL3232IBNZ

FAQ

Does the ICL3232ECA-T require an external negative voltage supply?

No, the device generates internal negative voltages using charge pumps, eliminating the need for external negative supplies.

What triggers the automatic powerdown feature?

The powerdown mode activates when no valid RS-232 signal is detected on any of the receiver inputs for a specified duration.

Is the ICL3232ECA-T compatible with 3.3 V logic levels?

Yes, it is designed to operate directly from 3.3 V or 5 V logic supplies while maintaining RS-232 voltage levels.