MAX208CAG

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Overview

The MAX208CAG is a +5V RS-232 transceiver from the Analog Devices/MAXIM family, designed for single-supply operation using integrated charge pump circuitry. It features four drivers and four receivers with full-duplex communication capability. The device supports data rates exceeding 120kbps while maintaining ±5V EIA/TIA-232E output levels under standard loading conditions. It requires four external 0.1µF capacitors to generate the necessary internal voltage rails. The 'C' suffix indicates an industrial temperature range of 0°C to +70°C, and the 'A' suffix typically denotes a specific package variant such as SOIC-24.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Feature Summary

• Integrated charge pump eliminates the need for bipolar power supplies
• Single +5V supply operation enabled by internal voltage conversion
• TTL/CMOS compatible inputs with guaranteed receiver thresholds

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Applications

• Battery-powered equipment requiring low power consumption
• Handheld devices with limited board space
• Portable diagnostic equipment

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Procurement Notes

Verify the exact package type associated with the 'A' suffix in the official datasheet before procurement. Confirm that the required operating temperature range aligns with the 'C' grade specifications. Ensure that the design includes the mandatory four external 0.1µF capacitors for proper charge pump functionality.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Selection Notes

Select this component when a single +5V supply is available and four-channel RS-232 communication is required. It is suitable for applications where board space is constrained due to the integration of charge pumps. Compare against the MAX208ECWG if extended temperature ranges or higher ESD protection are needed.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX200-MAX209 series of RS-232 transceivers. These devices share a common architecture featuring integrated charge pumps and similar pinout structures. The MAX208 specifically provides four drivers and four receivers, distinguishing it from lower-channel variants like the MAX202 or higher-channel models like the MAX211.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Replacement Considerations

The MAX208ECWG is a verified alternative offering an extended temperature range (-40°C to +85°C). Other family members like the MAX202 or MAX204 may serve as substitutes if fewer channels are sufficient.