MAX232EWE

Overview

The MAX232EWE is a dual driver and receiver RS-232 transceiver designed for EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 communication interfaces. It operates from a single +5V supply, utilizing internal charge-pump circuitry to generate the required ±10V levels without external bipolar supplies. The device supports full-duplex data transmission at rates up to 200 kbps. It features two drivers and two receivers with TTL/CMOS-compatible inputs and outputs. Electrical specifications include an input voltage operating range of ±30V for receivers and output voltage swings of ±5V to ±8V for drivers under load. The component functions within a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual charge-pump DC-DC converters to eliminate the need for external bipolar power supplies.
• Provides full-duplex communication capability through independent transmitter and receiver channels.
• Features high noise immunity with defined logic thresholds and input hysteresis characteristics.

Applications

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

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'E' confirms the extended industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C against the manufacturer's ordering guide. Confirm the 'WE' designation corresponds to the 16-pin Wide SOIC package dimensions. Ensure compliance with current RoHS directives by checking the latest datasheet revision before finalizing procurement specifications.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems that require RS-232 connectivity but lack access to negative voltage rails. The integrated charge pump simplifies board layout by reducing external capacitor requirements compared to older generations. Verify that the 200 kbps data rate meets the application's throughput needs and that the wide operating temperature range aligns with the environmental conditions.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX220–MAX249 family of +5V-powered multichannel RS-232 drivers and receivers. The family offers various pin counts and channel configurations to suit different interface complexity requirements. The MAX232 variant specifically provides a standard dual-channel solution widely adopted in legacy serial communication designs.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX232AWE is a direct functional replacement within the same package and specification profile. Other family members like the MAX232EEWE offer identical electrical performance with potentially different packaging options. Cross-referencing the specific suffix codes is necessary to ensure temperature and package compatibility.