MAX218EAP

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Overview

The MAX218EAP is a dual RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, designed for battery-powered EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 communication 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 true RS-232 voltage levels while maintaining a low-power shutdown mode that reduces current consumption to 1µA. It supports data rates up to 120kbps and features three-state receiver outputs for wire-ORing capabilities.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Feature Summary

• Operates directly from two alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH cells with a wide +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 low-power shutdown mode reducing current consumption to 1µA while allowing receivers to remain active
• Provides three-state receiver outputs compatible with wire-OR configurations at the UART

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Applications

• Battery-powered equipment
• Portable computers and peripherals
• Printers and instruments
• Modems

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'EAP' corresponds to the -40°C to +85°C temperature range and the 20-pin SSOP package configuration as documented in the official Maxim Integrated datasheet. Confirm RoHS compliance status through the manufacturer's current product release notes before finalizing procurement specifications.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Selection Notes

Select this component when designing portable systems requiring dual RS-232 channels powered by two-cell battery packs. Ensure the application environment accommodates the required external passive components, specifically a 15µH inductor and associated capacitors, for the internal switch-mode power supply operation.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Part Context

The MAX218 series provides a cost-effective solution for low-voltage serial communications. The MAX218EAP variant specifically addresses industrial and commercial applications requiring extended temperature stability compared to the standard commercial grade parts. It serves as a bridge between low-voltage CMOS logic and traditional RS-232 signaling standards.

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers Replacement Considerations

The MAX3218 is a pin-compatible alternative that includes an AutoShutdown feature.