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MAX232N

TIMAX232N

Texas Instruments
2/2 Transceiver Full RS232 16-PDIP
Active80,603 in stock

Overview

The MAX232N is a dual driver/receiver that converts TIA/EIA-232-F voltage levels to 5V TTL/CMOS levels. It features an integrated capacitive voltage generator, allowing it to operate from a single 5V supply while generating the necessary positive and negative rails for RS232 communication.

Why Choose This Part

The 16-PDIP package is ideal for through-hole prototyping and breadboard use without requiring surface mount adapters. It simplifies board design by integrating two transmitters and two receivers into a single chip that requires only a single 5V power source.

Applications

Embedded System Debugging
Provides a physical RS232 interface for accessing serial consoles on microcontrollers that use 5V logic.
Legacy Industrial Equipment
Enables communication between modern 5V controllers and older industrial machinery or PLCs using serial protocols.
Point-of-Sale Terminals
Facilitates data transfer between 5V processing units and RS232 peripherals like barcode scanners or receipt printers.
Modem Interfacing
Acts as the physical layer interface for connecting microcontrollers to standard external modems.

Key Specifications

Type Transceiver
Duplex Full
Protocol RS232
Data Rate 120Kbps
Mounting Type Through Hole
Package / Case 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
Voltage - Supply 4.5V ~ 5.5V
Receiver Hysteresis 500 mV
Operating Temperature 0degC ~ 70degC
Supplier Device Package 16-PDIP
Number of Drivers/Receivers 2/2

Getting Started

To use this IC, connect four external 1.0uF capacitors to the internal charge pump pins as specified in the datasheet to generate the RS232 voltage levels. Ensure the supply voltage remains between 4.5V and 5.5V, and note that the 16-PDIP footprint fits standard breadboards for rapid firmware development.