MAX3243CAI

Overview

The MAX3243CAI is a +3.0V to +5.5V RS-232 transceiver featuring three drivers and five receivers in a 28-pin SSOP package. It operates within the commercial temperature range of 0°C to +70°C. The device utilizes AutoShutdown technology to achieve a typical supply current of 1µA when no valid signal is detected on receiver inputs for 30µs. It supports data rates up to 120kbps with worst-case loads, typically reaching 235kbps. Internal dual charge pumps generate ±5.5V from a single supply using only 0.1µF capacitors at 3.3V operation.

Feature Summary

• AutoShutdown feature reduces supply current to 1µA upon detecting invalid signal levels on all receiver inputs
• Integrated dual charge pump circuitry eliminates the need for external ±12V supplies
• Complementary always-active receiver output (R2OUTB) enables monitoring during shutdown states

Applications

• Battery-powered equipment
• Hand-held devices
• Portable diagnostics equipment
• Peripherals and printers

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix against the manufacturer's official documentation to confirm the exact package type and temperature rating. Ensure that any additional characters following the base model number correspond to the intended RoHS compliance status or tape-and-reel packaging configuration as defined in the current datasheet.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring low-power standby modes via AutoShutdown. Verify that the required data rate does not exceed 120kbps under worst-case loading conditions. Confirm compatibility with the target logic family voltage levels, as the device interfaces directly with 3.3V and 5V CMOS families.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX3221/MAX3223/MAX3243 family of RS-232 transceivers. While sharing core features like AutoShutdown and single-supply operation, it differs from the MAX3221 and MAX3223 by providing three drivers and five receivers instead of one or two pairs. It is distinct from the MAX3241, which lacks the AutoShutdown capability.

Replacement Considerations

MAX3243EAI provides the same functionality but operates over an extended industrial temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.