MAX3185EAP+

Overview

The MAX3185EAP+ is a complete DTE RS-232 serial port designed for desktop PC and motherboard applications. It features three RS-232 transmitters and five RS-232 receivers, operating without an internal charge pump. The device supports data rates up to 230kbps and operates within a supply voltage range of +4.5V to +5.5V for VCC, +10.8V to +13.2V for VDD, and -10.8V to -13.2V for VSS. It provides enhanced ESD protection rated at ±15kV (Human Body Model), ±8kV (IEC 1000-4-2 Contact Discharge), and ±15kV (IEC 1000-4-2 Air-Gap Discharge). The component is housed in a 20-pin SSOP package and functions within a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Enhanced electrostatic discharge protection on all transmitter outputs and receiver inputs ensures robustness against static electricity events.
• Flow-through pinout architecture maintains compatibility with industry-standard interfaces for simplified design integration.
• Latchup-free operation during electrostatic discharge events guarantees continued functionality after exposure to high-voltage stress.

Applications

• Desktop PC systems
• Motherboard designs
• Instruments requiring EMC compliance

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix 'EAP+' corresponds to the required industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and the 20-pin SSOP package configuration. Confirm that the selected variant matches the intended PCB footprint and thermal requirements before finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing serial ports that require high ESD immunity without the complexity of external charge pumps. Ensure the system power supplies can provide the necessary dual voltages (+12V/-12V typical) for proper RS-232 signal levels. Verify that the 230kbps maximum data rate meets the communication speed requirements of the target application.

Part Context

The MAX3185 series serves as a direct replacement for the SN75C185, offering improved electromagnetic compatibility and ESD resilience while maintaining identical pin configurations. This compatibility allows designers to upgrade existing systems to meet stricter European EMC standards without redesigning the printed circuit board layout.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX3185 is functionally compatible with the SN75C185. Designers should verify that the replacement part meets the specific ESD protection levels required by the target equipment standards.

FAQ

Does the MAX3185 require an external charge pump?

No, the MAX3185 does not include an internal charge pump, which optimizes it for low-power desktop PC and motherboard applications.

What is the guaranteed maximum data rate for the MAX3185?

The device is guaranteed to operate at data rates up to 230kbps.

How is the ESD protection characterized for this component?

Protection is characterized at ±15kV using the Human Body Model, ±8kV using IEC 1000-4-2 Contact Discharge, and ±15kV using IEC 1000-4-2 Air-Gap Discharge.