MAX481EESA+

Overview

The MAX481EESA+ is a low-power, half-duplex RS-485/RS-422 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. It operates from a single +5V supply (4.75V to 5.25V) and supports data rates up to 2.5Mbps with unrestricted driver slew rates. The device features ±15kV ESD protection on all pins without latchup. It includes one driver and one receiver in an 8-pin SO package. Supply current is typically 500µA when active and drops to 0.5µA in shutdown mode. Operating temperature range is -40°C to +85°C.

Feature Summary

• Provides ±15kV electrostatic discharge protection on all pins without latchup for harsh environments.
• Features a low-power shutdown mode consuming only 0.5µA when both driver and receiver are disabled.
• Includes thermal shutdown circuitry that places outputs into a high-impedance state during excessive power dissipation.
• Receiver input has a fail-safe feature guaranteeing a logic-high output if the input is open circuit.

Applications

• Low-Power RS-485 Transceivers
• Low-Power RS-422 Transceivers
• Industrial-Control Local Area Networks

Procurement Notes

Verify the specific ordering suffix against official documentation to confirm package type and temperature range. Ensure compatibility with system voltage requirements of 4.75V to 5.25V. Confirm availability through authorized distributors as stock levels fluctuate. Check for RoHS compliance status prior to integration.

Selection Notes

Select this component for applications requiring high-speed transmission up to 2.5Mbps where unrestricted slew rates are necessary. It is suitable for designs needing independent driver and receiver enable controls. Consider the low shutdown current for battery-operated systems. Verify that the 8-pin SO package fits the PCB layout constraints.

Part Context

This part belongs to the MAX481E/MAX483E/MAX485E/MAX487E–MAX491E/MAX1487E family of low-power transceivers. These devices are designed for RS-485 and RS-422 communications in harsh environments. The 'E' suffix denotes enhanced ESD protection compared to standard versions. They share similar pinouts and functional characteristics within the family.

Replacement Considerations

Standard non-'E' versions like MAX481ESA offer pin-and-function compatibility but lack enhanced ESD protection. Other family members such as MAX483E or MAX485E may serve as alternatives depending on required data rate and slew rate specifications.

FAQ

How is the low-power shutdown mode activated?

Shutdown is initiated by bringing the Receiver Enable (-RE-) high and the Driver Enable (DE) low simultaneously. The device will not shut down if these states persist for less than 50ns.

What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX481E?

The MAX481E supports data rates up to 2.5Mbps due to its unrestricted driver slew rates.

Does the receiver have a fail-safe feature?

Yes, the receiver input guarantees a logic-high output if the input is open circuit.