MAX232ECPW

Overview

The MAX232ECPW is an RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Texas Instruments, designed for single-supply operation. It integrates a dual driver and dual receiver within a TSSOP-16 package. The device operates on a single 5 V supply, utilizing internal charge pumps to generate the necessary ±10 V levels for EIA/TIA-232-F communication without external bipolar power sources. Key electrical parameters include a data rate of 250 kb/s, a maximum supply voltage of 5.5 V, and a minimum of 4.5 V. It features full-duplex transmission with a propagation delay of 500 ns and supports an operating temperature range from 0°C to +70°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual drivers and dual receivers for complete RS-232 signal conversion
• Operates from a single 5 V power supply via internal charge pump circuitry
• Provides full-duplex communication capability at high data rates

Applications

• RS-232 serial communication interface circuits
• Modem interfacing applications
• Portable battery-powered instruments requiring single-supply operation

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity through authorized distributors or direct manufacturer channels. Confirm the specific suffix CPW corresponds to the TSSOP-16 package variant. Check for End-of-Life (EOL) status notifications as availability may be restricted. Ensure compliance with RoHS directives if required for the target assembly process.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a single 5 V supply is available and space constraints favor surface-mount packaging. Compare against the MAX232IDWR for industrial temperature ranges (-40°C to +85°C) if environmental conditions exceed commercial limits. Consider the MAX232CPE+ for through-hole DIP requirements. Verify that the 250 kb/s data rate meets system timing specifications.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX232E series, which represents an enhanced version of the standard MAX232 line. The 'E' suffix typically denotes improved performance characteristics such as higher data rates compared to earlier iterations. The CPW suffix specifically identifies the Thin-Shrink Small-Outline Package (TSSOP) with 16 pins, suitable for dense PCB layouts.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX232IDWR serves as a functional substitute offering an extended industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) in a SOIC-16 package. The MAX232CPE+ provides equivalent functionality in a PDIP-16 through-hole package. Verify pinout compatibility and capacitor requirements before substitution.