MAX3241EEWI

Overview

The MAX3241EEWI is a true RS-232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 28-pin Wide SO package. It operates on a single +3.0V to +5.5V supply and features three drivers and five receivers. The device guarantees data rates up to 250kbps while maintaining RS-232 output levels. It incorporates an internal dual charge pump requiring only four 0.1µF external capacitors. ESD protection is rated at ±15kV (Human Body Model) for all I/O pins. The shutdown mode reduces supply current to less than 1µA.

Feature Summary

• Proprietary low-dropout transmitter output stage enables true RS-232 performance from a single +3.0V to +5.5V supply.
• Integrated dual charge pump requires only four small 0.1µF external capacitors for operation.
• Enhanced electrostatic-discharge (ESD) protection protects all transmitter outputs and receiver inputs to ±15kV using the Human Body Model.
• Shutdown mode significantly reduces power consumption with supply current falling below 1µA.

Applications

• Notebook, subnotebook, and palmtop computers
• Battery-powered equipment
• Cell-phone data cables

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix 'EWI' corresponds to the 28-pin Wide SO package and the -40°C to +85°C temperature range. Confirm RoHS compliance status as indicated by the '+' designation if applicable. Ensure the ordering code matches the exact pin count and thermal characteristics required for the target PCB layout.

Selection Notes

Select this component when a complete serial port solution with three drivers and five receivers is required. It is suitable for applications needing high ESD tolerance and low-power shutdown capabilities. Verify that the 28-pin Wide SO package fits the available board space and that the 250kbps data rate meets system requirements.

Part Context

The MAX3241E belongs to the MAX3222E/MAX3232E/MAX3237E/MAX3241E/MAX3246E family of +3.0V-powered EIA/TIA-232 communications interface devices. This series is designed for portable systems requiring low power consumption and high data-rate capabilities with enhanced ESD protection structures.

Replacement Considerations

MAX3241EEWP+ (TSSOP package)

FAQ

What is the maximum data rate guaranteed for the MAX3241E?

The MAX3241E guarantees operation at data rates of 250kbps while maintaining RS-232 output levels.

How many external capacitors are required for the charge pump?

The device requires only four small 0.1µF external charge-pump capacitors for operation.

What is the ESD protection rating for the MAX3241E?

The transmitter outputs and receiver inputs are protected to ±15kV using the Human Body Model, ±15kV using IEC 1000-4-2 Air-Gap Discharge, and ±8kV using IEC 1000-4-2 Contact Discharge.