MAX3238EIPWR

Overview

The MAX3238EIPWR 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 integrated charge pumps for generating the required voltage levels. The device includes five drivers and three receivers, supporting full-duplex communication with a data rate of up to 250 kbps. It provides ±15-kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on both the signal lines and logic inputs. The component is housed in a 28-pin TSSOP package and is rated for an operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrated charge pump eliminates the need for external voltage generation components
• High ESD protection rating of ±15 kV on I/O and logic pins ensures robust operation
• Multichannel configuration supports multiple serial ports within a single package

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring reliable serial communication
• Portable instrumentation and medical equipment
• Modems and fax machines
• Printers and peripheral devices

Procurement Notes

Verify the exact suffix IPWR corresponds to the TSSOP-28 package and industrial temperature grade when sourcing. Confirm RoHS compliance status through official manufacturer documentation or authorized distributor certificates. Ensure the ordering part number matches the specific pinout and electrical characteristics defined in the latest datasheet to avoid integration errors.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems that require multiple RS-232 channels without increasing board space significantly. It is suitable for applications needing high ESD immunity in harsh environments. Compare against lower-channel variants like the MAX3232 if fewer ports are sufficient. Consider the 250 kbps speed limit for compatibility with legacy serial standards.

Part Context

This device belongs to the MAX3238 family of multichannel RS-232 transceivers. It shares functional similarities with other members of the series but differs in channel count and packaging options. The IPWR suffix specifically denotes the surface-mount TSSOP-28 variant designed for automated assembly processes in compact electronic designs.

Replacement Considerations

Direct substitutes include other MAX3238 variants with different packages such as MAX3238IDB or MAX3238EEAI. Cross-referencing with SN65C3238 or TRS3238E may be possible if pinouts and electrical parameters align perfectly with the design requirements.