MAX3212EWI

Overview

The MAX3212EWI is a low-power, true RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. It integrates three drivers and five receivers designed for EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 serial interfaces. The device operates from a single +2.7V to +3.6V supply and features an AutoShutdown mode that reduces supply current to 1µA. It guarantees a data rate of 235kbps and maintains true RS-232 levels across the operating range. The component is housed in a 28-pin Wide SOIC package (EWI suffix) and supports +5V logic compatibility.

Feature Summary

• AutoShutdown technology minimizes power consumption by reducing supply current to 1µA when no valid RS-232 signal is present
• Provides full EIA/TIA-232E and EIA/TIA-562 compliance with guaranteed mouse driveability
• Maintains complementary receiver outputs that remain active regardless of driver status

Applications

• Notebook and palmtop computers requiring low-power serial connectivity
• Battery-powered portable equipment and peripherals
• Instruments utilizing standard RS-232 communication protocols

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'EWI' confirms the 28-pin Wide SOIC package configuration. Confirm RoHS compliance status through official manufacturer documentation or authorized distributor declarations. Ensure the source provides the original datasheet rather than third-party summaries to validate electrical characteristics and pinout assignments before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring operation between 2.7V and 3.6V where power efficiency is critical. The integrated AutoShutdown feature distinguishes it from standard bipolar RS-232 transceivers. Verify that the required channel count matches the three drivers and five receivers provided. Ensure the system design accommodates the external capacitors necessary for charge pump operation at these voltage levels.

Part Context

The MAX3212 belongs to the Maxim MAX32xx family of low-power RS-232 transceivers. This series emphasizes reduced power consumption through proprietary AutoShutdown circuitry while maintaining compatibility with standard PC software like LapLink. The EW variant specifically denotes the wide SOIC package option, offering thermal and mechanical advantages over smaller surface-mount packages for certain board layouts.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX3211 serves as a direct alternative within the same family, offering identical functionality but with only two drivers instead of three. Designers must verify pinout compatibility and ensure the additional receiver channels are not required for the specific application before substituting.