MAX232CAWE+

Overview

The MAX232CAWE+ 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-to-RS-232 level translation. The component is housed in a 16-pin SOIC package and is rated for an industrial temperature range from 0°C to +70°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual charge-pump circuits to generate internal ±10V levels from a single +5V supply, eliminating the need for external bipolar power sources.
• Provides bidirectional signal conversion between TTL/CMOS logic levels and standard RS-232 voltage swings for serial communication interfaces.
• Supports full-duplex data transmission utilizing independent transmitter and receiver channels.

Applications

• Interface translation between microcontrollers and RS-232 peripherals
• Multidrop RS-232 network connections
• Portable diagnostic equipment requiring serial connectivity

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'C' confirms the commercial temperature grade (0°C to +70°C) against the manufacturer's official documentation. Confirm the '+T' or '+' designation indicates lead-free compliance and RoHS status as defined in the current product specification sheet before finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a single +5V supply is available and external bipolar voltages are prohibited. Ensure the application requires only two transmit and receive channels. Verify that the 200 kb/s maximum data rate meets system timing requirements and that the SOIC-16 footprint aligns with the PCB layout constraints.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX220–MAX249 family of line drivers/receivers designed for EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 communications interfaces. The MAX232 variant specifically utilizes external capacitors for its charge pump operation, distinguishing it from self-contained models like the MAX225 or MAX233 which integrate internal capacitors.

Replacement Considerations

Publicly confirmed substitutes include the MAX232ACWE+ and MAX232CWE-TG002. These alternatives share identical pinouts and electrical characteristics but may differ in temperature ranges or manufacturing revisions. Verify datasheet compatibility before substitution.