ICL3243CA

Overview

The ICL3243CA is a full-duplex RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Renesas Electronics Corporation, housed in a 28-SOIC package. It integrates three drivers and five receivers, supporting data rates up to 250kbps with a supply voltage range of 3V to 5.5V. The device features on-chip charge pumps requiring only four external 0.1µF capacitors and includes manual and automatic powerdown functions that reduce standby current to 1µA. It offers 15kV ESD protection per the human body model and meets EIA/TIA-232 specifications at 3V operation.

Feature Summary

• Integrates three drivers and five receivers for full RS-232 communication within a single chip.
• Features low-power architecture with automatic powerdown capabilities reducing standby current to 1µA.
• Includes on-chip voltage converters requiring minimal external components for board space savings.
• Provides robust 15kV ESD protection and latch-up free performance for reliable operation.

Applications

• Portable devices such as PDAs and Palmtops requiring low power consumption.
• Notebook and laptop computers utilizing mixed 3.3V and 5.0V logic systems.
• Industrial control systems needing reliable serial communication interfaces.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'CA' against official Renesas documentation to confirm temperature grade and packaging details. Ensure compatibility with existing PCB footprints for the 28-SOIC package. Confirm RoHS compliance status if required for your manufacturing process. Check for any recent product change notices regarding labeling or material composition updates.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems requiring three transmit and five receive channels. It is suitable for applications operating between 3V and 5.5V where low standby power is critical. Consider the 250kbps data rate limit for high-speed requirements. Verify that the 28-SOIC package fits the available board space constraints.

Part Context

This part belongs to the ICL32XX family of RS-232 transceivers designed for low-voltage operation. It serves as a drop-in replacement for several legacy Maxim Integrated devices. The family emphasizes power efficiency and small footprint solutions for portable electronics.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitutes include MAX3243EIDW and MAX3243EIDWR from Texas Instruments. These parts offer pin-compatible upgrades with similar electrical characteristics. Verify voltage levels and package dimensions before substitution.