MAX218CAP

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Overview

The MAX218CAP is a dual RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 20-pin SSOP package. It operates from a single supply voltage ranging from +1.8V to +4.25V and maintains true EIA/TIA-232E and EIA/TIA-562 voltage levels. The device integrates on-board DC-DC converters requiring only three external capacitors and one inductor. It features two drivers and two receivers with a guaranteed data rate of 120kbps. A shutdown mode reduces current consumption to 1µA, while three-state receiver outputs allow wire-ORing at the UART.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Feature Summary

• Operates directly from two alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH cells without voltage regulators
• Integrates on-board DC-DC converters for generating required RS-232 voltages
• Provides low-power shutdown mode extending battery life in portable systems
• Features three-state receiver outputs enabling multiple interfaces to be wire-ORed

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Applications

• Battery-powered equipment
• Computers and peripherals
• Printers and instruments
• Modems

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'CAP' corresponds to the 20-pin SSOP package and the commercial temperature range (0°C to +70°C). Confirm that the component matches the exact manufacturer designation provided in official documentation before integration into designs.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Selection Notes

Select this component when designing battery-powered serial communication interfaces requiring minimal power consumption. Ensure the application supports the required external passive components, specifically a 15µH inductor and appropriate capacitors, for the internal switch-mode power supply operation.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Part Context

The MAX218 is part of a family of low-power RS-232 transceivers designed for portable applications. It serves as a predecessor to later integrated solutions like the MAX3218, which introduced AutoShutdown capabilities. The MAX218 line provides a cost-effective surface-mount solution for standard serial communications.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Replacement Considerations

The MAX3218 is a pin-compatible alternative within the same product family that includes AutoShutdown functionality.