MAX232ECPWRG4

Overview

The MAX232ECPWRG4 is a dual driver/receiver RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Texas Instruments. It operates on a single 5 V supply, utilizing internal charge pumps to generate the necessary positive and negative voltages for EIA/TIA-232-F communication standards. The device supports data rates up to 120 kbps and features full-duplex operation with two drivers and two receivers. It is housed in a 16-pin TSSOP package designed for surface-mount applications. The component includes built-in ESD protection and functions within an industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Internal charge pump circuitry eliminates the need for external positive and negative voltage supplies.
• Integrated electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection safeguards against transient voltage events.
• Single-supply operation simplifies power design requirements for embedded systems.

Applications

• Serial communication interfaces between microcontrollers and PC ports.
• Industrial control systems requiring robust RS-232 connectivity.
• Embedded devices needing reliable half-duplex or full-duplex data transmission.

Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix G4 indicates RoHS compliance and lead-free construction as per Texas Instruments specifications. Confirm the TSSOP-16 package dimensions match the target PCB footprint. Ensure the operating temperature range aligns with the environmental conditions of the final assembly. Cross-reference the manufacturer part number with authorized distributors to guarantee authenticity and traceability.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a dual-channel RS-232 interface is required with industrial temperature tolerance. Compare against the MAX3232 series if lower voltage operation (3V) or higher data rates are necessary. Verify that the 120 kbps speed meets the system's baud rate requirements. Consider the TSSOP package size constraints during the layout phase.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX232 family of RS-232 transceivers from Texas Instruments. The 'E' suffix typically denotes an extended temperature range variant compared to standard commercial grades. The 'G4' suffix confirms green/RoHS-compliant manufacturing. It serves as a legacy but widely used solution for serial communication in established industrial and consumer electronics designs.

Replacement Considerations

MAX232ECPW: Non-RoHS version of the same electrical specification and package.

FAQ

Does the MAX232ECPWRG4 require external capacitors?

Yes, four external tantalum or aluminum electrolytic capacitors are required to support the internal charge pump circuitry for generating the dual supply voltages.

What is the maximum data rate supported?

The device supports data rates up to 120 kbps under standard operating conditions.

Is this component suitable for high-voltage environments?

It includes ESD protection, but it is not designed for direct connection to high-voltage lines without additional isolation components.