MAX3218EAP

Overview

The MAX3218EAP+ is a dual-driver, dual-receiver RS-232 transceiver designed for low-voltage battery-powered systems. It operates from a single +1.8V to +4.25V supply and includes onboard switch-mode DC-DC converters to generate true RS-232 voltage levels without external regulators. The device features an AutoShutdown function that reduces supply current to 1µA when no valid signal is detected on the receiver inputs. It supports data rates up to 120kbps and provides three-state receiver outputs. The component is housed in a 20-pin SSOP package and is rated for an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• AutoShutdown technology minimizes power consumption by disabling the onboard power supply and drivers when invalid RS-232 levels are detected at the receiver inputs.
• Integrated switch-mode power supply generates required ±6.5V rails directly from a single low-voltage source using minimal external components.
• Three-state receiver outputs allow multiple receivers with different interface standards to be connected to the same bus.

Applications

• Battery-powered equipment
• Subnotebook computers
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs)
• Hand-held equipment

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'EAP+' corresponds to the industrial temperature grade (-40°C to +85°C) and SSOP package configuration. Confirm RoHS compliance status as indicated by the '+' designation. Ensure the ordering information matches the exact pinout and electrical characteristics defined in the official datasheet before finalizing procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring direct operation from two alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH cells without voltage regulation. Consider the 120kbps guaranteed data rate for compatibility with standard PC communication software. Evaluate the external inductor and diode requirements for the onboard charge pump circuit to ensure they meet the specified saturation and recovery time constraints.

Part Context

The MAX3218 belongs to the Maxim Integrated RS-232 transceiver family, specifically engineered for ultra-low power consumption in portable devices. It serves as a CMOS alternative to traditional bipolar RS-232 drivers, offering significant power savings through its proprietary shutdown logic while maintaining full EIA/TIA-232E specification compliance.

Replacement Considerations

MAX3218CAP+