MAX3232CPW

Overview

The MAX3232CPW is a dual driver/receiver RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Texas Instruments. It operates from a single 3.0 V to 5.5 V supply and achieves true RS-232 compliance using an internal dual charge pump requiring only four external 0.1 µF capacitors. The device supports data rates up to 250 kbit/s with full-duplex communication. It features ±15 kV human body model ESD protection on RS-232 lines and meets TIA/EIA-232-F and ITU V.28 standards. Operating temperature range is 0°C to +70°C, housed in a 16-pin TSSOP package.

Feature Summary

• Integrated dual charge pump enables operation from a single low-voltage supply without external negative voltage generation.
• Provides robust electrostatic discharge protection exceeding ±15 kV on RS-232 bus terminals.
• Accepts 5 V logic inputs while powered by a 3.3 V supply for seamless interface compatibility.

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring reliable serial communication.
• Portable battery-powered instruments and devices.
• Modems and fax machines utilizing standard RS-232 protocols.

Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix 'PW' corresponds to the TSSOP-16 package configuration. Confirm the 'C' grade indicates the commercial temperature range of 0°C to +70°C. Ensure the component matches the specific pinout and electrical characteristics defined in the official Texas Instruments datasheet before integration into production designs.

Selection Notes

Select this variant when a commercial temperature range is sufficient and surface-mount assembly is required. Compare against the 'E' grade variants if extended industrial temperature support (-40°C to +85°C) is necessary. Verify that the 250 kbit/s speed limit aligns with system requirements, as higher-speed alternatives like the SN65C3232 exist.

Part Context

This component belongs to the MAX3232 family of low-power RS-232 transceivers. It shares architectural similarities with other members like the MAX3232EIPWR but differs in operating temperature specifications and package type. The family is widely used for converting TTL/CMOS levels to RS-232 voltages in embedded applications.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX3232ECPWR serves as a direct functional substitute with an extended industrial temperature range. For higher data rate requirements, the SN65C3232 or SN75C3232 are compatible replacements offering 1 Mbit/s performance.