MAX232NE4

Overview

The MAX232NE4 is a dual driver and receiver integrated circuit designed for RS-232 communication, manufactured by Texas Instruments. It operates from a single 5V power supply (4.5V to 5.5V) with a typical supply current of 8mA. The device supports data rates up to 120kbit/s and features two drivers and two receivers for full-duplex operation. It utilizes an internal capacitive voltage generator requiring four 1µF external capacitors to generate the necessary ±8.5V levels for EIA-232-F compliance. The component is housed in a 16-pin PDIP package and provides ESD protection exceeding JESD 22 standards.

Feature Summary

• Generates standard EIA-232-F voltage levels from a single 5V supply using an internal charge pump
• Provides dual drivers and dual receivers for full-duplex serial communication
• Accepts input signals up to ±30V on receiver inputs while converting them to 5V TTL/CMOS logic levels

Applications

• TIA/EIA-232-F compliant serial interfaces
• Battery-powered systems requiring low supply current
• Direct connection between terminals and computers

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'E4' corresponds to lead-free packaging and RoHS compliance as defined in the manufacturer's documentation. Confirm that the PDIP-16 package type matches the target PCB footprint requirements. Ensure the operating temperature range aligns with the system environment specifications before finalizing procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component when interfacing 5V logic devices with RS-232 ports without requiring negative voltage rails. The MAX232NE4 is suitable for applications needing two independent communication channels. Consider the 1µF capacitor requirement for the charge pump circuit during schematic design. Verify that the 120kbit/s maximum data rate meets the application's throughput needs.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX232 family of RS-232 transceivers produced by Texas Instruments. The 'N' designation indicates the PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) form factor, while 'E4' typically denotes environmental compliance attributes such as lead-free construction. This variant is distinct from surface-mount versions like the SOIC or TSSOP packages within the same functional family.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX202 is documented as an upgrade option offering improved ESD protection and compatibility with smaller 0.1µF capacitors. Other variants within the MAX232 series may offer different package types but maintain similar electrical characteristics.