MAX218CWP+T

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Overview

The MAX218CWP+T is a dual RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 20-pin Wide SO package. It operates from a single supply voltage ranging from +1.8V to +4.25V and includes on-board DC-DC converters to generate true RS-232 voltage levels without external regulators. The device features two drivers and two receivers with a guaranteed data rate of 120kbps. Supply current is typically 1.9mA at 3.0V, reducing to 0.04µA in shutdown mode. It complies with EIA/TIA-232E specifications and supports an operating temperature range of 0°C to +70°C.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Feature Summary

• Operates directly from two alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH cells without voltage regulation
• Includes on-board DC-DC converters for generating RS-232 voltage levels
• Provides low-power shutdown mode extending battery life in portable systems
• Features three-state receiver outputs allowing wire-ORing at the UART

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Applications

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

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Procurement Notes

Verify the component against official Maxim Integrated datasheets to confirm pinout compatibility and electrical characteristics. Ensure the Wide SO package matches the target PCB footprint. Confirm that the operating temperature range meets the specific environmental requirements of the application before finalizing procurement.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Selection Notes

Select this component when designing battery-operated serial communication interfaces requiring minimal power consumption. It is suitable for applications needing direct operation from two-cell battery packs. Consider the 120kbps data rate limit and the requirement for external passive components for the charge pump circuit during system design.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX218 family of RS-232 transceivers designed for low-voltage, low-power applications. It serves as a cost-effective alternative to bipolar RS-232 transceivers, offering CMOS-level power efficiency while maintaining standard RS-232 signal integrity for serial communications.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Replacement Considerations

The MAX3218 is a compatible alternative featuring AutoShutdown functionality. Verify pinout compatibility and ensure the replacement meets the specific voltage and data rate requirements of the existing design.