ICL3232EIB

Overview

The Intersil ICL3232EIB is a dual driver and dual receiver RS-232 transceiver designed for low-power applications. It operates within a supply voltage range of 3V to 5.5V, ensuring compatibility with single-supply systems. The device supports data rates up to 250kbps and features an automatic powerdown function that reduces standby current to approximately 1µA when the bus is idle. It includes on-chip charge pumps requiring only four external 0.1µF capacitors. The component provides ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 I/O pins and meets EIA/TIA-232 specifications at 3V operation.

Feature Summary

• Automatic powerdown circuitry minimizes standby power consumption during periods of inactivity
• Integrated charge pump design eliminates the need for external inductors or multiple voltage supplies
• Robust electrostatic discharge protection ensures reliability in sensitive environments
• Compliance with communication standards allows direct interface with standard serial ports

Applications

• Portable computers and notebook systems requiring extended battery life
• Personal digital assistants (PDAs) and handheld devices
• Industrial control systems utilizing serial communication interfaces
• Modems and peripheral equipment connecting to host processors

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix against official manufacturer documentation to confirm package type and temperature grade. Ensure the source provides valid RoHS compliance status if required by the design specification. Cross-reference the part number with the latest datasheet revision to confirm active status and availability constraints before finalizing procurement plans.

Selection Notes

Select this component for designs requiring low quiescent current and minimal external capacitance. It is suitable for replacing older 5V-only RS-232 drivers in modern 3.3V logic environments. Consider the SOIC-16 package dimensions for PCB layout constraints. Verify that the 250kbps speed meets the system's timing requirements compared to higher-speed alternatives.

Part Context

This device belongs to the ICL32XXE family of low-power RS-232 transceivers manufactured by Intersil, now part of Renesas Electronics. The 'E' suffix typically denotes enhanced features such as improved ESD protection and lower power consumption compared to standard variants. These components are widely used in legacy serial communication interfaces where power efficiency is critical.

Replacement Considerations

The ICL3232EIB serves as a direct functional replacement for the MAX232E and HIN232E in many applications. Designers should verify pinout compatibility and ensure that the replacement part supports the same 3V minimum operating voltage. Check for any differences in capacitor requirements or ESD ratings between the original and substitute parts.