MAX231CWE+T

Overview

The MAX231CWE+T is a +5V-powered, multichannel RS-232 driver and receiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. It operates within the commercial temperature range of 0°C to +70°C and utilizes a 16-pin Wide SOIC package. The device integrates dual charge-pump DC-DC voltage converters that generate internal ±10V rails from a single +5V supply, eliminating the need for external bipolar power sources. Electrical specifications include a data rate of 160 kbps, a VCC supply current of 0.4 mA typical (no load), and a V+ supply current of 1.8 mA typical. It provides two drivers and two receivers with an RS-232 input voltage operating range of ±30V.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual charge-pump circuitry to generate internal ±10V operation from a single +5V supply
• Eliminates the requirement for external bipolar ±12V power supplies
• Requires only four small external capacitors for charge-pump functionality

Applications

• Interface translation between TTL/CMOS logic and RS-232 serial ports
• Multidrop RS-232 communication networks
• Portable diagnostic equipment requiring low-power serial connectivity

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'CWE+T' against the manufacturer's official ordering guide to confirm the exact package type, temperature grade, and tape-and-reel quantity. Confirm RoHS compliance status directly with the supplier documentation. Ensure the component matches the required pinout for the target PCB footprint before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component when board space is limited and external bipolar power generation is undesirable. Compare against the MAX232 family if higher drive strength or different control features are needed. Verify that the 160 kbps data rate meets system requirements. Check if integrated capacitors (MAX233/MAX235) are preferred over discrete external components for further size reduction.

Part Context

The MAX231 belongs to the Maxim MAX220–MAX249 family of line drivers/receivers designed for EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 interfaces. This family offers various configurations in multiple packages to suit different channel counts and feature sets. The MAX231 specifically provides a standard 2-transmitter, 2-receiver configuration optimized for general-purpose serial communication applications.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers: MAX231CPE+, MAX231ISE+, MAX232CWE+T.