Texas Instruments DS14C88N
- Part No.:
- DS14C88N
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
- Package:
- 14-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
DS14C88N.pdf
- Description:
- IC TRANSCEIVER 4/0 14PDIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:2,447
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Product details
Overview
DS14C88N from Texas Instruments is a quad CMOS line driver IC designed to translate TTL/CMOS logic levels to EIA-232D and CCITT V.28 compliant RS-232 voltage levels. It operates from ±5V to ±12V supplies, consumes only 500 μA typical supply current at ±12V, features on-chip slew rate control, and delivers ±3.0V to ±10.5V output swing into 3–7 kΩ loads - enabling direct interface between microcontrollers and legacy serial peripherals in industrial terminal equipment.
For engineers reviewing the DS14C88N datasheet, DS14C88N pinout, DS14C88N application, or DS14C88N equivalent, this device is selected for low-power RS-232 level translation in space-constrained DTE/DCE designs where external slew-rate capacitors must be eliminated, supply flexibility across ±4.5V to ±12.6V is required, and compatibility with legacy bipolar DS1488/MC1488 footprints is critical.
Technical Context
The DS14C88N implements four independent CMOS driver channels with rail-to-rail output swing capability relative to its dual supplies (V+, V−, GND). Each channel integrates slew-rate limiting circuitry meeting EIA-232D timing requirements without external components, ensuring controlled edge rates (tr/tf ≤1.0 μs) and low skew (≤150 ns at ±12V).
It uses low-threshold CMOS metal-gate technology to achieve 50× lower quiescent current than bipolar equivalents (500 μA vs. 25 mA), while maintaining robust short-circuit output protection (±45 mA) and wide operating temperature range (0°C to +75°C) - making it suitable for embedded serial interfaces where thermal management and supply efficiency are constrained.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Range | ±4.5V to ±12.6V - supports legacy and modern RS-232 systems without regulator redesign |
| Output Voltage Swing | ±3.0V to ±10.5V into 3–7 kΩ - meets EIA-232D minimum ±5V threshold for reliable noise margin |
| Supply Current (ICC+) | 500 μA max at ±12V - enables battery-backed or low-power serial ports |
| Propagation Delay | 1.2–6.0 μs - ensures compatibility with 115.2 kbps UART timing budgets |
| Slew Rate | 30 V/μs - satisfies EIA-232D dV/dt limits to reduce EMI and crosstalk |
| Input Thresholds | VIL = 0.6–0.8V, VIH = 2.0V - compatible with 3.3V and 5V logic families |
| ESD Rating (HBM) | ≥1.0 kV - requires handling precautions but no special board-level protection |
Pinout & Package
DS14C88N is housed in a 14-pin plastic dual in-line package (PDIP), package drawing NFF0014A, with 0.300-inch body width and through-hole mounting. Pin spacing is 0.100 inch, and lead finish is matte tin (CuSn).
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 3, 5, 7 | Driver Inputs (IN A–D) | TTL/CMOS-compatible logic inputs accepting 0.6–0.8V low and 2.0V+ high thresholds |
| 2, 4, 6, 8 | Driver Outputs (OUT A–D) | EIA-232D-compliant outputs delivering ±3V to ±10.5V swing with on-chip slew control |
| 9 | GND | Signal reference common for logic inputs and internal biasing |
| 10 | V− | Negative supply rail (−4.5V to −12.6V); powers output stage negative swing |
| 14 | V+ | Positive supply rail (+4.5V to +12.6V); powers output stage positive swing |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Pin-for-pin replacement for DS1488/MC1488 | Enables drop-in upgrade of legacy bipolar RS-232 drivers without PCB revision |
| On-chip slew rate control | Eliminates need for external 1–2 nF slew-limiting capacitors, reducing BOM count and board area |
| Wide dual-supply operation (±4.5V to ±12.6V) | Supports both standard ±12V and low-voltage ±5V RS-232 implementations from single design |
| Low ICC+ (500 μA typ. at ±12V) | Reduces power supply loading and heat generation in multi-channel serial interfaces |
| Guaranteed EIA-232D compliance | Meets all electrical timing, voltage swing, and load drive requirements per standard without derating |
Applications
| Industrial HMI Terminal | Legacy Test Equipment Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Connecting an ARM-based HMI controller to a legacy RS-232 barcode scanner or PLC. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Level translator converting 3.3V UART signals to full EIA-232D voltage swing for noise-immune cable runs up to 15 m. Use Value: Enables direct integration without external regulators or passive RC networks, preserving layout space and simplifying certification. |
Use Scenario: Retrofitting aging automated test equipment with modern microcontroller-based control boards. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Quad driver providing four independent RS-232 transmit channels for instrument command and status reporting. Use Value: Maintains pin compatibility with original MC1488 sockets while cutting supply current by 98%, extending system uptime in fanless enclosures. |
| Point-of-Sale Peripheral Hub | Medical Diagnostic Data Logger |
|
Use Scenario: Consolidating serial data from receipt printers, cash drawers, and magnetic stripe readers onto a single host controller. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Four-channel line driver managing simultaneous asynchronous RS-232 transmissions with <150 ns inter-channel skew. Use Value: Ensures deterministic timing across multiple peripherals, preventing UART framing errors during concurrent transactions. |
Use Scenario: Isolating and conditioning RS-232 signals from bedside diagnostic sensors before transmission to central monitoring units. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power RS-232 transmitter driving isolated data lines in battery-operated portable loggers. Use Value: Delivers reliable communication at 19.2 kbps with only 500 μA supply draw, extending operational life between charges. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad RS-232 line driver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX232N | Integrated charge-pump voltage generator; requires 4 × 1 μF capacitors; single-supply (5V) operation only | Eliminates need for dual ±12V supplies but increases component count and board area | Select when dual supply rails are unavailable and capacitor footprint is acceptable |
| SN75188N | Bipolar technology; 25 mA ICC+; wider temp range (−40°C to +85°C); no on-chip slew control | Requires external 1–2 nF slew caps; higher power dissipation limits channel density | Select for extended temperature operation where legacy bipolar compatibility is mandatory |
Compared with MAX232N and SN75188N, the DS14C88N uniquely combines pin-compatible upgrade path from bipolar drivers, zero external components for slew control, and ultra-low 500 μA supply current - making it optimal for retrofitting existing PDIP-based RS-232 interfaces without layout changes or supply redesign.
Availability
DS14C88N is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial HMI terminals, legacy test equipment interfaces, and point-of-sale peripheral hubs requiring stable component supply amid TI's LIFEBUY status.
Supply support for DS14C88N includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and communications markets since 1930.
The DS14C88N belongs to TI's legacy RS-232 interface product line, engineered specifically for low-power, pin-compatible replacement of bipolar line drivers in industrial and instrumentation applications where reliability and backward compatibility are essential.
FAQ
What is the maximum recommended supply voltage for DS14C88N?
The DS14C88N has absolute maximum ratings of +13V on V+ and −13V on V−. However, the recommended operating range is ±4.5V to ±12.6V. Operating beyond ±12.6V risks exceeding safe junction temperature or violating EIA-232D timing margins, so DS14C88N should not be biased above these limits in production designs.
Does DS14C88N require external capacitors for slew rate control?
No, DS14C88N integrates on-chip slew rate control compliant with EIA-232D specifications. Unlike earlier bipolar drivers such as DS1488, the DS14C88N eliminates the need for external 1–2 nF capacitors on each output, reducing bill-of-materials cost and PCB real estate while ensuring consistent edge rates across temperature and voltage.
Is DS14C88N pin-compatible with the original DS1488?
Yes, DS14C88N is explicitly specified as pin-for-pin compatible with DS1488 and MC1488. Its 14-pin PDIP footprint (NFF0014A), identical pin assignments, and matching logic input/output behavior allow direct socket replacement without PCB modification - a key advantage for legacy system upgrades.
What is the operating temperature range for DS14C88N?
The DS14C88N is rated for operation from 0°C to +75°C ambient temperature. This commercial-grade range aligns with typical industrial enclosure environments and matches the specification of its bipolar predecessors. It is not qualified for extended temperature ranges (e.g., −40°C to +85°C) like some newer alternatives.
Can DS14C88N drive standard RS-232 loads of 3 kΩ to 7 kΩ?
Yes, DS14C88N is fully characterized to drive standard RS-232 loads of 3 kΩ and 7 kΩ, delivering guaranteed output voltage swings of ±3.0V to ±10.5V depending on supply voltage. Electrical Characteristics tables in the TI datasheet confirm VOL and VOH performance under these exact load conditions, ensuring interoperability with all EIA-232D-compliant receivers.
DS14C88N Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 14-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Obsolete
- Type:
- Driver
- Protocol:
- RS232
- Number of Drivers/Receivers:
- 4/0
- Duplex:
- -
- Receiver Hysteresis:
- -
- Data Rate:
- -
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 12.6V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 14-PDIP
DS14C88N FAQ
1.How can I place an order for DS14C88N through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for DS14C88N on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for DS14C88N reliable?
The price and inventory of DS14C88N are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for DS14C88N is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for DS14C88N?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for DS14C88N transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for DS14C88N?
DS14C88N orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your DS14C88N order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for DS14C88N?
For technical support, including DS14C88N datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your DS14C88N requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that DS14C88N is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All DS14C88N products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that DS14C88N meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of DS14C88N?
All DS14C88N units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with DS14C88N, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The DS14C88N part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for DS14C88N:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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