MAX3243IPW

Overview

The MAX3243IPW is a multichannel RS-232 line driver and receiver manufactured by Texas Instruments. It operates on a single 3-V to 5.5-V power supply and features three drivers and five receivers for full-duplex communication. The device supports data rates up to 250 kb/s and includes an auto-powerdown mode that reduces supply current to approximately 1 µA. It provides ±15-kV electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection on the bus lines according to Human Body Model standards. The component is housed in a 28-pin TSSOP package and is rated for operation over an extended temperature range of -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Integrated auto-powerdown circuitry significantly reduces quiescent current during idle periods.
• Robust ±15-kV ESD protection on all RS-232 bus lines ensures reliability in harsh environments.
• Multichannel architecture combines three independent drivers and five receivers in a single package.
• True 3-V to 5.5-V operation allows compatibility with various logic voltage levels.

Applications

• Industrial control systems requiring reliable serial communication
• Portable instrumentation and battery-powered devices
• Modem and communications equipment interfaces
• Military and aerospace applications utilizing enhanced product variants

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix against official Texas Instruments documentation to confirm temperature grade and packaging configuration. Ensure the ordering part number matches the required operating range and pinout. Cross-reference manufacturer datasheets to validate RoHS compliance and lifecycle status before procurement.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing systems requiring multiple RS-232 channels within a limited footprint. The low standby current makes it suitable for battery-operated applications where power conservation is critical. Verify that the 250-kbps speed meets system requirements and that the TSSOP package fits the PCB layout constraints.

Part Context

This device belongs to the MAX3243 family of multichannel RS-232 transceivers. The IPW suffix typically denotes an industrial temperature range variant (-40°C to +85°C) packaged in a 28-pin Thin Shrink Small Outline Package (TSSOP). It serves as a bridge between microprocessor logic levels and RS-232 signal voltages.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements include other MAX3243 variants with different suffixes for commercial or military temperature ranges, such as MAX3243IDR or MAX3243EIPW. Alternative manufacturers may offer pin-compatible RS-232 transceivers, but electrical specifications must be verified against the original datasheet.

FAQ

What is the typical supply current in auto-powerdown mode?

The typical supply current drops to approximately 1 µA when the auto-powerdown feature is active.

Does the MAX3243IPW support full-duplex communication?

Yes, the device contains three drivers and five receivers, enabling full-duplex RS-232 communication.

What is the ESD protection rating for the bus lines?

The device provides ±15-kV ESD protection on all RS-232 bus lines according to Human Body Model testing.