MAX3232IDW

Overview

The MAX3232IDW is a dual-channel RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Texas Instruments, designed for asynchronous communication controllers. It operates on a single power supply ranging from 3 V to 5.5 V and supports data rates up to 250 kb/s with a maximum output slew rate of 30 V/µs. The device integrates two drivers and two receivers within a 16-pin SOIC package. Key electrical specifications include a typical operating supply current of 1 mA and ±15 kV ESD protection on all serial port connection terminals. It complies with TIA/EIA-232-F standards and requires four external 0.1 µF capacitors for the charge pump circuit.

Feature Summary

• Integrates dual line drivers and dual line receivers for full-duplex communication
• Provides ±15 kV ESD protection on all serial port connection terminals including ground
• Operates from a single 3 V to 5.5 V power supply using an internal charge pump
• Complies with TIA/EIA-232-F interface requirements

Applications

• Connecting asynchronous communication controllers to serial port connectors
• Industrial control systems requiring robust RS-232 interfaces
• Portable battery-powered equipment utilizing low power consumption features

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix IDW confirms the Industrial temperature range (-40°C to +85°C) and SOIC-16 narrow package variant. Confirm RoHS compliance status through official manufacturer documentation or authorized distributor datasheets prior to procurement. Ensure ordering quantities align with standard tube packaging formats typically associated with this package style.

Selection Notes

Select the MAX3232IDW when industrial temperature operation is required alongside standard RS-232 signaling speeds. This part is suitable for designs needing ±15 kV ESD protection without external protection components. Compare against the MAX3222 if only one driver/receiver pair is needed, or consider higher-speed alternatives like the SN65C3232 if data rates exceeding 250 kb/s are necessary.

Part Context

The MAX3232 series represents a family of multichannel RS-232 line drivers and receivers from Texas Instruments. The IDW suffix specifically denotes the industrial temperature grade and surface-mount SOIC package. This component serves as a bridge between microprocessor logic levels and standard RS-232 voltage levels, widely used in legacy serial communication interfaces.

Replacement Considerations

The MAX3232EIDWG4 is a documented alternative within the same product family offering similar electrical characteristics.