MAX218CWP

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Overview

The MAX218CWP is a dual RS-232 transceiver designed for battery-powered EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 communications interfaces. It operates from a single supply voltage ranging from +1.8V to +4.25V, enabling direct connection to two alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH cells without external regulators. The device integrates on-board DC-DC converters to generate the necessary ±6.5V levels for true RS-232 compliance. It features two drivers and two receivers with a guaranteed data rate of 120kbps. A low-power 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 within a +1.8V to +4.25V supply range
• Integrates on-board DC-DC converters to maintain true RS-232 and EIA/TIA-562 voltage levels
• Features a 1µA low-power shutdown mode that extends battery life in portable systems
• Provides three-state receiver outputs to facilitate wire-ORing multiple receivers at the UART

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Applications

• Battery-powered equipment
• Computers
• Printers
• Peripherals
• Instruments
• Modems

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific package variant when ordering, as the MAX218CWP denotes the Wide SOIC package. Confirm temperature range requirements; the 'C' suffix indicates operation from 0°C to +70°C, whereas 'E' variants support -40°C to +85°C. Ensure external components like the 15µH inductor and diodes are sourced separately if not included in the evaluation kit. Check RoHS compliance status for lead-free versions.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Selection Notes

Select the MAX218CWP when designing for applications requiring direct battery operation from two cells without voltage regulation. This component is suitable for systems needing two full-duplex channels at 120kbps with minimal power consumption. Consider the Wide SOIC package for surface-mount assembly. Evaluate the need for the shutdown feature to manage standby currents effectively in portable devices.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Part Context

The MAX218 belongs to the Maxim Integrated RS-232 transceiver family, specifically engineered for low-voltage, battery-operated serial communication. It serves as a predecessor to newer auto-shutdown variants like the MAX3218. The device addresses the power constraints of early portable computing by eliminating the need for high-voltage regulators, relying instead on efficient charge-pump circuitry.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Replacement Considerations

The MAX3218 is a pin-compatible upgrade offering AutoShutdown functionality. For standard 5V applications, the MAX232CWE+ provides similar dual-channel performance but requires a higher supply voltage.