MAX3222EEPN+

Overview

The MAX3222EEPN+ is a dual RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc. under the Maxim Integrated brand, housed in an 18-pin Plastic DIP package. It operates on a single +3.0V to +5.5V supply and features two drivers and two receivers for full-duplex communication. The device guarantees data rates up to 250kbps, with propagation delays of 0.15µs and typical supply current of 1mA. It includes a shutdown mode reducing current to 1µA while keeping receivers active. ESD protection reaches ±15kV (HBM) and ±8kV (IEC Contact). Operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrated dual charge pump generates true RS-232 voltage levels from low-voltage supplies using only four small capacitors.
• Enhanced electrostatic discharge protection safeguards transmitter outputs and receiver inputs against high-voltage static events.
• Shutdown control significantly reduces power consumption while maintaining receiver activity for external device monitoring.

Applications

• Battery-powered portable equipment
• Notebook and subnotebook computers
• Cell-phone data cables

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix EE indicates the extended industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) compared to the EC commercial variant. Confirm the PDIP-18 package matches the target board layout requirements. Ensure the ordering part number includes the '+' suffix to guarantee lead-free and RoHS compliance as specified in the manufacturer documentation.

Selection Notes

Select this component when interfacing TTL or CMOS logic with RS-232 ports requiring robust ESD immunity. The MAX3222E serves as a direct pin-compatible replacement for legacy MAX232 devices. Consider the shutdown feature for battery-operated designs where standby current reduction is critical without losing serial line monitoring capabilities.

Part Context

This device belongs to the MAX3222E/MAX3232E family of low-power RS-232 transceivers. It shares functional compatibility with industry-standard parts like the MAX232 but offers improved performance characteristics including lower supply current and enhanced protection structures suitable for modern portable electronics.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX3222ECPN+ is the commercial grade equivalent operating within 0°C to +70°C. Both variants share identical pinouts and electrical functions except for the specified temperature range limitations defined by their respective suffixes.

FAQ

How does the shutdown mode affect receiver operation?

In shutdown mode (SHDN = GND), the supply current drops to less than 1µA. However, the receivers remain active, allowing the device to monitor the serial line for incoming signals even while the transmitters are disabled.

What capacitor values are required for operation?

The internal charge pumps require four external capacitors. For +3.3V operation, 0.1µF capacitors are typically sufficient. For +5.0V operation, specific values such as 0.047µF for C1 and 0.33µF for C2-C4 may be used depending on the exact design constraints.

Is the MAX3222EEPN+ compatible with the MAX232?

Yes, the MAX3222E is pin, package, and functionally compatible with the industry-standard MAX232, allowing for drop-in replacements in existing designs that utilize the MAX232 interface.