MAX3232IDRE4

Overview

The MAX3232IDRE4 is a multichannel RS-232 line driver and receiver manufactured by Texas Instruments. It operates from a single 3-V to 5.5-V power supply and includes two drivers and two receivers for full-duplex communication. The device supports data rates up to 250 kbit/s and features ±15-kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on all RS-232 bus pins. It utilizes four external 0.1-µF capacitors for charge pump functionality, eliminating the need for negative voltage supplies. The component is housed in a 16-pin SOIC package and is rated for an industrial operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrated dual charge pumps generate required RS-232 voltage levels from a single low-voltage supply without external negative rails.
• Bus-pin ESD protection exceeds ±15 kV using the human-body model, ensuring robustness against electrostatic discharge events.
• Accepts 5-V logic inputs while operating with a 3.3-V supply, facilitating direct interfacing between different logic families.

Applications

• Battery-powered systems including PDAs, notebooks, laptops, and palmtop computers
• Industrial handheld equipment requiring reliable serial communication
• Microcontroller-based designs needing TTL/CMOS to RS-232 level translation

Procurement Notes

Verify the suffix 'E4' indicates lead-free compliance and RoHS status when sourcing. Confirm the specific tape-and-reel quantity matches project requirements. Ensure the industrial temperature grade (-40°C to +85°C) aligns with environmental constraints. Cross-reference the manufacturer part number directly with official Texas Instruments documentation to avoid counterfeit components.

Selection Notes

Select this variant for applications requiring extended industrial temperature ranges compared to commercial grades. The SOIC-16 package offers a balance of thermal performance and PCB space efficiency. Consider the 250 kbps speed limit; higher-speed interfaces may require alternative devices like the SNx5C3232 series if system timing demands exceed this threshold.

Part Context

This component belongs to the MAX3232 family of low-power RS-232 transceivers. The 'I' designation specifies the industrial temperature range, while 'D' indicates the SOIC package type. The 'R' denotes reel packaging, and 'E4' signifies lead-free construction compliant with European Union directives. This numbering convention allows differentiation based on environmental rating and physical form factor within the same functional family.

Replacement Considerations

TRS3232EIDR is a parameter-equivalent replacement from Texas Instruments. SN65C3232 variants offer pin-compatible alternatives with potentially improved electrical characteristics. Verify that any substitute maintains the 3-V to 5.5-V supply range and ±15-kV ESD protection specifications.

FAQ

Does the MAX3232IDRE4 require a negative voltage supply?

No, the device uses internal charge pumps and four external capacitors to generate the necessary positive and negative voltages from a single 3-V to 5.5-V supply.

What is the maximum data transmission rate supported?

The device supports data rates up to 250 kbit/s under standard operating conditions.

How is ESD protection implemented on the RS-232 lines?

All RS-232 bus pins are protected against electrostatic discharge exceeding ±15 kV according to the human-body model specification.