SC16C550IA44,529

Overview

The SC16C550IA44,529 is a Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART) manufactured by NXP USA Inc. It features 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs with error flags, an infrared encoder/decoder, and automatic hardware or software flow control. The device operates at 5 V, 3.3 V, and 2.5 V within the industrial temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C. Serial data rates reach up to 3 Mbits/s at 5 V, 2 Mbits/s at 3.3 V, and 1 Mbit/s at 2.5 V. It utilizes a 44-lead PLCC package and maintains pin compatibility with industry-standard ST16C550, TL16C550, and PC16C550 devices.

Feature Summary

• Integrated 16-byte transmit and receive FIFOs with selectable trigger levels for optimized data throughput.
• Built-in infrared (IrDA) encoder and decoder supporting standard asynchronous communication protocols.
• Automatic hardware flow control via programmable auto-RTS and auto-CTS signals to prevent data overrun.
• Software flow control capability using programmable Xon/Xoff characters for serial transmission management.

Applications

• High-speed modem interfaces requiring fast data processing and low CPU overhead.
• Shared network environments utilizing multi-channel serial communication systems.
• Infrared data link implementations in consumer electronics and industrial equipment.
• Embedded systems requiring backward compatibility with legacy 16C450 software architectures.

Procurement Notes

Verify component authenticity through authorized distributors or direct manufacturer channels. Confirm the specific ordering suffix matches the required package variant and environmental rating. Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory standards applicable to your deployment region before finalizing procurement orders.

Selection Notes

Select this UART when system requirements demand high baud rates up to 3 Mbits/s alongside robust FIFO buffering. Choose the PLCC44 package if space constraints align with its physical dimensions. Ensure the host processor supports the necessary register programming interface for enabling advanced features like IrDA and auto-flow control.

Part Context

This component belongs to the SC16C550 family of UARTs designed for serial data communications. It serves as an enhanced successor to the 16C450, offering superior performance through larger FIFOs and additional control logic. The IA44 designation specifically identifies the plastic leaded chip carrier package version suitable for surface mount assembly processes.

Replacement Considerations

The SC16C550IA44 is functionally equivalent to the ST16C550, TL16C550, and PC16C550 due to pin compatibility. Verify that alternative sources provide identical register sets and timing characteristics to ensure seamless integration without hardware modifications.