MAX232AEPE+

Overview

The MAX232AEPE+ is a +5V-powered, multichannel RS-232 driver and receiver integrated circuit manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. It operates within a supply voltage range of 4.5 V to 5.5 V with a typical operating current of 10 mA. The device supports full-duplex communication at data rates up to 200 kb/s. It features two drivers and two receivers, providing TTL/CMOS-compatible inputs and outputs alongside RS-232 compliant signal levels. The component is housed in a 16-pin Plastic DIP package and is rated for an industrial operating temperature range from -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual charge-pump DC-DC voltage converters to generate internal ±10V rails from a single +5V supply, eliminating the need for external bipolar power sources.
• Provides full-duplex RS-232 communication channels with dedicated drivers and receivers for bidirectional data transfer.
• Features TTL/CMOS logic compatibility on input and output pins, facilitating direct interfacing with standard microcontrollers and digital logic circuits.

Applications

• Interface translation between TTL/CMOS logic devices and RS-232 serial ports
• Multidrop RS-232 network connections
• Portable diagnostic equipment requiring serial communication

Procurement Notes

Verify that the ordering suffix 'PE' corresponds to the 16-pin Plastic DIP package configuration required for the design. Confirm the 'A' designation indicates the extended temperature grade (-40°C to +85°C) rather than the commercial grade. Ensure compliance with RoHS directives as indicated by the '+' suffix. Cross-reference the manufacturer part number with authorized distributors to confirm current production status and availability.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a robust, single-supply RS-232 transceiver is needed for through-hole PCB layouts. The 16-pin DIP form factor suits prototyping and legacy board designs. Consider alternative packages such as SOIC or TSSOP if surface-mount technology is required. Verify that the 200 kb/s data rate meets the system's baud rate requirements and that the absence of ESD protection does not conflict with environmental exposure risks.

Part Context

This device belongs to the MAX220–MAX249 family of line drivers and receivers designed for EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 interfaces. The MAX232 variant specifically provides two drivers and two receivers. The 'AE' prefix denotes the extended temperature range version, while the 'PE' suffix identifies the 16-pin plastic DIP package. This family is engineered to simplify RS-232 interface design by integrating charge pumps internally.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX232CPE+ serves as a commercial-grade replacement with a 0°C to +70°C operating range. For surface-mount applications, the MAX232AESE+ (SO-Narrow-16) or MAX232EEWE+ (SO-Wide-16) are compatible pin-for-pin alternatives offering different thermal or physical footprints.