ICL3238ECAZ

Overview

The ICL3238ECAZ is a low-power RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Renesas Electronics. It integrates five drivers and three receivers in a single package, supporting full-duplex communication with data rates up to 250 kbps. The device operates on a single 3 V to 5.5 V supply and features power-down mode functionality that reduces operating supply current to approximately 1 µA. It includes ±15 kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on all lines per human body model standards. The component is housed in a 28-pin SSOP package and is rated for industrial temperature ranges from -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrates five independent drivers and three independent receivers for multichannel serial communication
• Provides robust ±15 kV ESD protection on driver outputs, receiver inputs, and control pins
• Features power-down mode to minimize current consumption during idle periods
• Operates reliably from a single 3 V to 5.5 V power supply without requiring negative voltages

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring multiple RS-232 ports
• Battery-powered equipment needing low standby current
• Data acquisition systems with high ESD exposure risks
• Portable devices utilizing multichannel serial interfaces

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'ECAZ' against official Renesas documentation to confirm the exact temperature grade and packaging variant. Ensure compatibility with the target PCB footprint for the 28-pin SSOP package. Confirm RoHS compliance status through the manufacturer's current product change notices or datasheet revision history before finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems requiring five transmit and three receive channels within a compact form factor. Consider the 1 µA power-down current for battery-operated applications where energy efficiency is critical. Verify that the 250 kbps data rate meets the system requirements, as higher speeds may necessitate alternative transceivers. Ensure the 3 V to 5.5 V supply range aligns with the available power rails in the design.

Part Context

The ICL3238ECAZ belongs to the ICL3238 family of RS-232 transceivers, which are designed for multichannel applications. This series is characterized by its low power consumption and integrated ESD protection, making it suitable for harsh environments. The 'E' suffix typically denotes an extended industrial temperature range, while 'CAZ' specifies the package type and material composition according to Renesas naming conventions.

Replacement Considerations

Cross-reference with MAX3238EIPWR from Texas Instruments for pin-compatible alternatives. Verify electrical specifications such as supply voltage range and data rate compatibility. Check package dimensions and thermal characteristics to ensure mechanical fit. Review manufacturer-specific differences in ESD protection levels and power-down current values.