ICL3241ECB-T

Overview

The ICL3241ECB-T is an RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Renesas Electronics Corporation, belonging to the ICL3241 series. It features three drivers and five receivers in a full-duplex configuration. The device operates on a single power supply ranging from 3 V to 5.5 V, supporting both 3.3 V and 5 V logic systems. It guarantees a data rate of 250 kb/s with a propagation delay of 0.15 µs. The component includes integrated shutdown functionality to reduce operating current to 1 mA. It provides ±15 kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on RS-232 pins and utilizes an SSOP-28 package for surface mount installation.

Feature Summary

• Integrated shutdown mode reduces standby power consumption significantly
• Provides ±15 kV ESD protection on transmitter outputs and receiver inputs
• Supports full RS-232 compliance at supply voltages as low as 3.0 V
• Includes dedicated wake-up receiver for serial port management

Applications

• Portable computers and notebook systems requiring low-power serial interfaces
• Battery-operated handheld devices and personal digital assistants
• Industrial control systems utilizing RS-232 communication protocols
• Embedded systems integrating TTL/CMOS logic with RS-232 peripherals

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'CB' against official Renesas documentation to confirm the exact package type and temperature range, as distributor listings may vary. Ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints for the SSOP-28 form factor. Confirm moisture sensitivity levels and reflow soldering profiles prior to assembly to prevent damage during manufacturing processes.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a complete serial port solution with three drivers and five receivers is required in a compact surface-mount package. It is suitable for designs needing low quiescent current and robust ESD protection. Consider alternatives if higher data rates or different pin counts are necessary. Verify that the 3 V to 5.5 V supply range aligns with the target system's power architecture.

Part Context

The ICL3241ECB-T is part of the broader ICL32xxE family of RS-232 transceivers designed for low-voltage applications. This series is engineered to replace legacy 5 V components while maintaining electrical compatibility. The device integrates charge pumps to generate internal voltage levels, eliminating the need for external dual supplies. It serves as a direct upgrade path for systems transitioning from standard 5 V RS-232 interfaces to modern low-power architectures.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitutes include the ST3241EB and MAX3241E. These components offer similar 3/5 driver/receiver configurations and RS-232 compliance. Verify pinout compatibility and package dimensions before substitution to ensure seamless integration into existing designs.