Overview
The MAX232ECD, produced by Texas Instruments, is a dual RS-232 driver and receiver integrated circuit. It is designed to convert TTL/CMOS logic levels to RS-232 levels and vice versa, making it suitable for a wide range of serial communication applications. The device operates from a single 5V power supply and includes a capacitive voltage generator that uses four external 1µF capacitors to generate the necessary RS-232 voltage levels.
This component is particularly useful in systems that require reliable serial communication, such as battery-powered systems, terminals, modems, and computers. The MAX232ECD also features enhanced electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection, ensuring robustness against electrical surges.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value | Unit |
|---|---|---|
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 4.5 to 5.5 | V |
| High-Level Input Voltage (VIH) | 2 | V |
| Low-Level Input Voltage (VIL) | 0.8 | V |
| Receiver Input Voltage | ±30 | V |
| Operating Temperature (TA) | 0 to 70 | °C |
| Data Rate | Up to 250 kbit/s | |
| ESD Protection | ±15kV HBM, ±8kV IEC61000-4-2 Contact Discharge, ±15kV IEC61000-4-2 Air-Gap Discharge | |
| Supply Current | 8 mA (typical) | mA |
Key Features
- Meets or exceeds TIA/EIA-232-F and ITU recommendation V.28 standards.
- Operates from a single 5V power supply with 1µF charge-pump capacitors.
- Includes two drivers and two receivers.
- Enhanced ESD protection: ±15kV Human-body model (HBM), ±8kV IEC61000-4-2 Contact discharge, and ±15kV IEC61000-4-2 Air-Gap discharge.
- Low supply current: 8 mA typical.
- Each receiver converts RS-232 inputs to 5V TTL/CMOS levels with a typical threshold of 1.3V and hysteresis of 0.5V.
- Open or shorted to ground input results in a high output on ROUT.
Applications
- Battery-powered systems.
- Terminals and terminal servers.
- Modems and other serial communication devices.
- Computers and peripherals requiring RS-232 interfaces.
Q & A
- What is the operating voltage range of the MAX232ECD?
The MAX232ECD operates from a single 5V power supply, with a voltage range of 4.5V to 5.5V.
- What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX232ECD?
The MAX232ECD supports data rates up to 250 kbit/s.
- What kind of ESD protection does the MAX232ECD offer?
The MAX232ECD offers ±15kV Human-body model (HBM), ±8kV IEC61000-4-2 Contact discharge, and ±15kV IEC61000-4-2 Air-Gap discharge ESD protection.
- How many drivers and receivers are included in the MAX232ECD?
The MAX232ECD includes two drivers and two receivers.
- What is the typical supply current of the MAX232ECD?
The typical supply current of the MAX232ECD is 8 mA.
- What are the input voltage levels that the receivers can accept?
The receivers can accept input voltage levels up to ±30V.
- What is the purpose of the charge-pump capacitors in the MAX232ECD?
The charge-pump capacitors are used to generate the necessary RS-232 voltage levels from a single 5V supply.
- What are some common applications of the MAX232ECD?
Common applications include battery-powered systems, terminals, modems, and computers requiring RS-232 interfaces.
- How does the MAX232ECD handle open or shorted inputs?
An open or shorted to ground input results in a high output on ROUT.
- What are the recommended operating temperatures for the MAX232ECD?
The recommended operating temperature range is from 0°C to 70°C.
