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MAX3232EEUE+

MAX3232EEUE+

Analog Devices / Maxim Integrated
RS-232 Interface IC 15kV ESD-Protected, Down to 10nA, 3.0V to 5.5V, Up to 1Mbps, True RS-232 Transceivers
NRND3,038 in stock

Overview

The MAX3232EEUE+ is a high-speed RS-232 transceiver designed to provide robust serial communication for systems with 3.0V to 5.5V power supplies. It features enhanced ESD protection up to 15kV on the transmitter outputs and receiver inputs, ensuring reliability in harsh electrical environments. By using a proprietary low-dropout transmitter output stage, it enables true RS-232 performance while maintaining extremely low supply current.

Why Choose This Part

The device supports data rates up to 1Mbps, allowing for high-speed serial protocols beyond standard RS-232 limits. Its integrated charge pump requires only four small 0.1uF external capacitors, saving board space compared to older 1488/1489 solutions. Additionally, the 15kV ESD protection reduces the need for external TVS diodes on exposed serial ports.

Applications

Industrial Control Systems
Reliable serial data links between PLCs and peripheral sensors or human-machine interfaces in electrically noisy environments.
Telecommunications Equipment
Diagnostic ports and management consoles for networking hardware requiring robust ESD protection.
Battery-Powered Handheld Units
Low-power serial interfacing for portable instruments where minimizing current draw in shutdown mode is critical.
Point-of-Sale Terminals
Interfacing barcode scanners, receipt printers, and card readers to a central processing unit over RS-232.

Getting Started

To evaluate this part, connect the four charge-pump capacitors (C1-C4) as specified in the datasheet to generate the required RS-232 voltage levels from your 3.3V or 5V rail. Ensure the VCC bypass capacitor is placed close to the pin to minimize switching noise. For rapid prototyping, look for TSSOP-16 to DIP adapter boards or dedicated MAX3232 breakout modules compatible with breadboards.

Also Consider

MAX3232ESE+T Analog Devices / Maxim Integrated - A similar dual-channel transceiver in a wider SOIC-16 package for easier hand-soldering and different PCB footprints.