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MAX3232ECDR

TIMAX3232ECDR

Texas Instruments
2/2 Transceiver Full RS232 16-SOIC
Active3,779 in stock

Overview

The MAX3232ECDR is a dual-channel RS-232 line driver and receiver designed for high-performance serial communication. It operates from a wide supply voltage range of 3V to 5.5V using a high-efficiency charge-pump architecture that requires only four small 0.1uF external capacitors. This transceiver is ideal for bridging the gap between low-voltage microcontrollers and legacy serial peripherals while maintaining compliance with TIA/EIA-232-F standards.

Why Choose This Part

This device features a high 30V/us slew rate and provides robust ESD protection for harsh environments. Its ability to operate at 3.3V eliminates the need for a dedicated 12V power rail common in older RS-232 designs, simplifying the overall power tree.

Applications

Industrial Control Systems
Used to interface PLC controllers or industrial sensors with standard RS-232 serial ports for diagnostics and data logging.
Embedded System Debugging
Provides a robust hardware serial console link between a 3.3V/5V MCU UART and a PC terminal for firmware development.
Point of Sale (POS) Terminals
Reliably connects barcode scanners, receipt printers, and credit card readers to a central processing unit.
Battery-Powered Handheld Tools
Leverages a low 300uA supply current to provide serial connectivity in portable diagnostic equipment without heavy battery drain.

Key Specifications

Type Transceiver
Duplex Full
Protocol RS232
Data Rate 250kbps
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Package / Case 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
Voltage - Supply 3V ~ 5.5V
Receiver Hysteresis 300 mV
Operating Temperature 0degC ~ 70degC
Supplier Device Package 16-SOIC
Number of Drivers/Receivers 2/2

Getting Started

To implement this part, place four 0.1uF ceramic capacitors near the charge pump pins (C1+/-, C2+/-, V+, V-) as specified in the datasheet. Ensure the TTL/CMOS side is connected to your MCU UART (TX/RX) and the RS-232 side is routed to a DB9 connector or header. For rapid prototyping, many engineers use the MAX3232 on small breakout boards compatible with standard breadboards.

Part of MAX232 / MAX3232 RS-232 family » MAX3232

MAX3232 Family

Comparing specs that differ across variants. The current part is highlighted.

Part Number Package Temp Range Stock
MAX3232ECDR (this part) SOIC-16 0degC ~ 70degC 3,779
MAX3232ECPWR TSSOP-16 0degC ~ 70degC 7,480
MAX3232CPWR TSSOP-16 0degC ~ 70degC 32,860
MAX3232EIDWR SOIC-16 -40degC ~ 85degC 8,287
Also available as: MAX3232

Also Consider

ADM3202ARNZ Analog Devices - A high-speed 3.3V/5V RS-232 transceiver that is pin-compatible and commonly used in similar industrial communication designs.