MAX3238EIDBR

Overview

The MAX3238EIDBR 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 features five drivers and three receivers for full-duplex communication. The device supports data rates up to 250 kb/s and includes an integrated charge pump to generate the required RS-232 voltage levels. It offers ±15-kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on all RS-232 lines, ensuring robust performance in harsh environments. The component is housed in a 28-pin SSOP package and is designed for industrial applications with an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrates five independent drivers and three independent receivers within a single package.
• Provides high ESD protection ratings of ±15 kV on all RS-232 transceiver lines.
• Operates efficiently from a single low-voltage power supply ranging from 3 V to 5.5 V.
• Includes a dedicated shutdown mode to significantly reduce power consumption during idle periods.

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring multiple serial communication channels.
• Portable instrumentation and medical equipment needing low-power operation.
• Modems and fax machines utilizing standard RS-232 interfaces.
• Data acquisition systems with multiple sensor inputs.

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'IDBR' to confirm the industrial temperature grade (-40°C to +85°C), SSOP-28 package, and tape-and-reel packaging format. Ensure compatibility with the target PCB footprint and reflow soldering profile for SSOP components. Cross-reference the manufacturer's latest datasheet for any pinout revisions or environmental compliance updates prior to finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a design requires five transmit and three receive channels without occupying excessive board space. It is suitable for applications where power efficiency is critical due to its low quiescent current and shutdown capability. Consider alternative packages like TSSOP if leadless surface mounting is preferred, or verify if the higher-speed SN65C3238 variant is needed for baud rates exceeding 250 kb/s.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX3238 family of multichannel RS-232 transceivers. It shares functional similarities with the SN65C3238 but differs in speed capabilities and specific electrical characteristics. The family is widely used in legacy interface designs transitioning to modern low-voltage logic systems.

Replacement Considerations

The SN65C3238DBR serves as a compatible alternative offering higher data rates up to 1 Mb/s. Verify that the increased speed does not impact signal integrity in existing layouts. Other variants such as MAX3238IDWR provide the same functionality in a TSSOP-28 package for different mounting requirements.