ICL3241ECVZ

Overview

The ICL3241ECVZ is a low-power RS-232 transceiver from the Renesas ICL32xxE series, designed for operation with a single power supply ranging from 3.0V to 5.5V. It integrates three drivers and five receivers, providing full-duplex communication capabilities compliant with EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 standards. The device features an internal charge pump requiring only small external capacitors. It offers ±15kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on both transmitter outputs and receiver inputs per IEC61000-4-2 standards. The component supports data rates exceeding 250kbps under worst-case loading conditions and includes a shutdown mode that reduces supply current to approximately 1µA. It operates within a temperature range of 0°C to +70°C and is housed in a 28-pin TSSOP package.

Feature Summary

• Integrated charge pump enables efficient voltage generation using minimal external capacitance.
• Provides robust ±15kV ESD protection on RS-232 pins to enhance system reliability.
• Features manual shutdown control to minimize power consumption in standby states.
• Maintains compatibility with standard TTL/CMOS logic levels for seamless interface integration.

Applications

• Portable computers and laptops requiring low-power serial connectivity
• Personal digital assistants (PDAs) and handheld devices
• Battery-operated systems utilizing 3.3V or 5.0V power supplies
• Industrial equipment needing reliable RS-232 communication interfaces

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'CVZ' against the manufacturer's official documentation to confirm the exact package type, temperature grade, and tape-and-reel specifications. Ensure the ordering information matches the required RoHS compliance status and moisture sensitivity level defined in the latest datasheet revision. Cross-reference the part number with authorized distributors to confirm availability and authenticity before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a design requires multiple transmit and receive channels within a single IC for space-constrained applications. It is suitable for systems operating between 3.0V and 5.5V where low quiescent current is critical. Consider this part if the application demands high ESD immunity on serial lines without additional external protection components. Verify that the required data rate does not exceed the guaranteed minimums under the specific load conditions of the target circuit.

Part Context

This device belongs to the ICL32xxE family of low-power RS-232 transceivers manufactured by Renesas Electronics. The family shares common architectural features such as the internal charge pump and ESD protection mechanisms. Variants within the series differ primarily in the number of drivers and receivers, as well as specific package options. This particular model provides a balanced configuration of three drivers and five receivers, making it distinct from single-driver or dual-driver alternatives in the same product line.

Replacement Considerations

The ICL3221E serves as a lower-channel alternative within the same series. Direct pin-compatible replacements may include older Intersil models like the ICL3241, though electrical characteristics should be verified. Check for equivalent parts from other manufacturers offering similar 3-driver/5-receiver configurations with comparable voltage ranges and ESD ratings.