MAX3388EEUG+

Overview

The MAX3388EEUG+ is a 2.5V-powered RS-232 transceiver in a 24-pin TSSOP package, operating from -40°C to +85°C. It features three transmitters and two receivers with guaranteed data rates up to 460kbps. The device includes an internal dual charge pump requiring four 0.1µF capacitors for operation. Supply current is typically 300µA, dropping to 1µA in shutdown mode. ESD protection reaches ±15kV via Human Body Model and IEC Air-Gap methods. A dedicated VL pin supports mixed-voltage logic systems ranging from 1.8V to 3.0V.

Feature Summary

• Integrated dual charge pump enables RS-232 performance from a single low-voltage supply using minimal external components.
• Dedicated VL pin allows flexible interfacing with mixed-voltage logic systems by programmably setting input and output thresholds.
• Enhanced electrostatic discharge protection on all RS-232 inputs and outputs ensures robustness against high-voltage static events.
• Internal power switch provides controlled energy delivery to remote circuitry or modules while maintaining low standby consumption.

Applications

• Subnotebook and palmtop computers
• Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and PDA cradles
• Cell phone data cables and docking interfaces

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific suffix EEUG confirms the extended temperature range of -40°C to +85°C and the TSSOP-24 package configuration. Confirm RoHS compliance status through official manufacturer documentation prior to integration. Ensure ordering details match the exact part number to avoid functional discrepancies related to voltage ranges or pinout variations.

Selection Notes

Select this component when designing battery-operated portable devices requiring reliable RS-232 communication at low voltages. The integrated charge pump eliminates the need for external voltage converters, reducing board space. The VL pin is essential for systems mixing different logic voltage levels, such as 1.8V baseband processors and 3.3V peripherals.

Part Context

This device belongs to the Maxim Integrated MAX3388E/MAX3389E family of 2.5V RS-232 transceivers. The MAX3388 variant lacks active handshaking outputs during shutdown compared to the MAX3389. Both share identical electrical characteristics and pinouts, differing primarily in shutdown behavior for the LIN/LOUT pins.

Replacement Considerations

Public confirmed substitute part numbers are not available in the provided documentation.

FAQ

How does the VL pin function in mixed-voltage systems?

The VL pin sets the logic threshold for transmitter inputs and limits the maximum voltage swing of receiver outputs. This prevents forward biasing internal device structures when interfacing with logic supplies as low as 1.8V.

What is the minimum capacitor requirement for the charge pump?

Four 0.1µF capacitors are required for C1 through C4 when operating from a +2.5V to +3.0V supply. Smaller values are not recommended to ensure proper voltage generation and stability.

Does the device support hot-sync applications?

Yes, the device includes dedicated logic-level I/O pins (LIN and LOUT) for handshaking. These pins facilitate hot-sync capabilities and can remain active during shutdown in the MAX3389 variant.