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Texas Instruments MAX232EIN
- Part No.:
- MAX232EIN
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
- Package:
- 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX232EIN.pdf
- Description:
- IC TRANSCEIVER FULL 2/2 16PDIP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,137
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Product details
Overview
MAX232EIN from Texas Instruments is a dual RS-232 transceiver IC integrating charge-pump voltage generation, two drivers (±5V to ±7V output), two receivers (±30V input tolerance, 1.7V–2.4V threshold), and IEC61000-4-2 ESD protection (±8kV contact, ±15kV air-gap) - all operating from a single 5V supply with 1µF external capacitors. It delivers 250kbit/s data rate and 8mA typical supply current for legacy serial interface bridging in industrial terminals and embedded modems.
For engineers reviewing the MAX232EIN datasheet, MAX232EIN pinout, MAX232EIN application, or MAX232EIN equivalent, key selection criteria include its PDIP-16 package, –40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range, ±30V receiver input tolerance, dual-driver/receiver architecture, and compatibility with TTL/CMOS logic interfacing to RS-232 lines without dual-supply rails.
Technical Context
The MAX232EIN implements a two-stage switched-capacitor charge pump using four external 1µF capacitors to generate ±8.5V internal supplies (VS+ and VS–) from 5V, enabling full TIA/RS-232-F compliant driver outputs. Its receivers feature fail-safe operation (open/shorted input yields high ROUT) and 0.2V–1V hysteresis for noise immunity on noisy RS-232 bus lines.
Each driver provides rail-to-rail RS-232 output swing (VOH ≥ +5V, VOL ≤ –5V into 3kΩ), while each receiver converts ±3V to ±30V RS-232 inputs to 0.4V/3.5V TTL/CMOS logic levels with 500ns propagation delay and 3kΩ–7kΩ input resistance - supporting robust point-to-point serial communication in electrically harsh environments.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage | 4.5V to 5.5V - enables direct connection to standard 5V logic rails without LDO regulation |
| Data Rate | 250kbit/s - supports full-speed RS-232 operation up to 250 kilobits per second |
| Driver Output Swing | +5V to +7V / –5V to –7V - meets RS-232-F voltage compliance for reliable long-cable transmission |
| Receiver Input Range | ±30V - withstands large bus transients and allows direct connection to unpowered or floating RS-232 ports |
| ESD Protection | ±8kV IEC61000-4-2 contact, ±15kV air-gap - eliminates need for external TVS diodes on RS-232 pins |
| Supply Current | 8mA typical - minimizes power draw in battery-backed or energy-constrained systems |
| Operating Temperature | –40°C to +85°C - qualified for industrial-grade deployment in non-climate-controlled equipment |
Pinout & Package
MAX232EIN uses a 16-pin Plastic Dual In-line Package (PDIP) with 19.3mm × 9mm footprint and through-hole mounting. Pin 1 is located at the left end of the top row when viewed with the notch facing upward.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 C1+ | Charge-pump capacitor positive terminal | Connects to positive lead of 1µF capacitor C1; critical node for +V generation stability |
| 2 VS+ | Positive charge-pump output | Internal +8.5V rail for driver stage; not user-accessible but referenced by C1/C2 network |
| 3 C1− | Charge-pump capacitor negative terminal | Connects to negative lead of C1; completes first charge-pump phase |
| 4 C2+ | Second charge-pump capacitor positive terminal | Connects to positive lead of C2; enables negative voltage generation via inversion |
| 5 C2− | Second charge-pump capacitor negative terminal | Connects to negative lead of C2; forms return path for inverted charge pump |
| 6 VS− | Negative charge-pump output | Internal –8.5V rail for driver stage; powers low-side output transistors |
| 7 DOUT2 | RS-232 data output channel 2 | Drives RS-232 line (e.g., TX2) with ±5V to ±7V swing; connects to remote device's RIN |
| 8 RIN2 | RS-232 data input channel 2 | Accepts ±30V RS-232 signal (e.g., RX2); converts to TTL/CMOS on ROUT2 |
| 9 ROUT2 | Logic-level output channel 2 | Delivers 0.4V/3.5V CMOS-compatible signal to local UART RX2 pin |
| 10 DIN2 | Logic-level input channel 2 | Accepts 0V/5V TTL/CMOS signal from local UART TX2; drives DOUT2 |
| 11 DIN1 | Logic-level input channel 1 | Accepts 0V/5V TTL/CMOS signal from local UART TX1; drives DOUT1 |
| 12 ROUT1 | Logic-level output channel 1 | Delivers 0.4V/3.5V CMOS-compatible signal to local UART RX1 pin |
| 13 RIN1 | RS-232 data input channel 1 | Accepts ±30V RS-232 signal (e.g., RX1); converts to TTL/CMOS on ROUT1 |
| 14 DOUT1 | RS-232 data output channel 1 | Drives RS-232 line (e.g., TX1) with ±5V to ±7V swing; connects to remote device's RIN |
| 15 GND | Ground reference | Primary return path for all internal circuits and external capacitors; must be low-impedance |
| 16 VCC | Power supply input | 5V main supply; bypassed internally and requires external 1µF decoupling to GND |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Dual RS-232 driver/receiver | Two independent full-duplex channels enable simultaneous UART-to-RS-232 conversion without multiplexing |
| Single 5V supply operation | Eliminates need for ±12V supplies; reduces BOM count and PCB area versus discrete level-shifter solutions |
| Integrated charge-pump generator | Generates ±8.5V rails internally using only four 1µF external capacitors - no inductors or transformers required |
| IEC61000-4-2 ESD protection | ±8kV contact and ±15kV air-gap protection on RS-232 pins reduces system-level ESD design effort and test risk |
| Fail-safe receiver inputs | Open-circuit or short-to-ground RIN pins default to high ROUT output - prevents spurious UART framing errors during cable disconnect |
Applications
| Industrial Terminal Interfaces | Legacy Modem Connectivity |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Connecting microcontroller-based HMI panels to RS-232 peripherals such as barcode scanners, PLCs, or serial printers in factory-floor environments. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional level translation between 5V UART and ±12V RS-232 physical layer, including transient suppression and bus fault tolerance. Use Value: Enables reliable communication over 15m cables with ±30V input tolerance and fail-safe behavior during hot-plug events. | Use Scenario: Integrating dial-up or leased-line modems into embedded telemetry gateways for remote SCADA monitoring. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Full-duplex RS-232 transceiver providing isolated logic-to-line signaling with 250kbit/s throughput for AT command and data transfer. Use Value: Single-chip solution eliminates external DC-DC converters and discrete protection components, reducing bill-of-materials cost by 30% vs. discrete implementation. |
| Battery-Powered Diagnostic Tools | Computer Peripheral Adapters |
Use Scenario: Handheld field service tools that interface with legacy test equipment via RS-232 while operating from Li-ion batteries. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-quiescent-current (8mA typ.) RS-232 interface IC enabling >8-hour runtime on 2000mAh battery packs. Use Value: 5V-only operation avoids voltage conversion losses; integrated ESD protection prevents field failures during repeated cable insertion. | Use Scenario: USB-to-RS-232 adapter dongles using FTDI or CP210x bridge chips requiring clean, robust level translation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Final-stage RS-232 driver/receiver ensuring compliance with TIA/RS-232-F voltage and timing specifications. Use Value: 500ns receiver propagation delay and 250kbit/s data rate support high-speed polling of industrial sensors without protocol timeouts. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RS-232 transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3232EPE | 3.0V–5.5V supply range; ±15kV ESD; 1µF capacitors; same pinout but different internal charge-pump topology | Supports 3.3V logic systems directly; lower supply current (0.3mA shutdown) | Select for mixed-voltage designs or ultra-low-power sleep modes - not drop-in compatible due to different enable logic and biasing |
| SP3232EEN | 5V-only; ±15kV ESD; 0.1µF capacitors; identical pinout and electrical specs except for 150kbit/s max data rate | Smaller external capacitors reduce board space; slightly reduced speed margin | Choose when minimizing capacitor footprint is critical and 150kbit/s suffices - verified functional replacement with same PDIP-16 layout |
Compared with MAX232EIN, MAX3232EPE offers wider supply flexibility and lower standby power but requires circuit modifications for enable control, while SP3232EEN provides identical mechanical fit and function at lower external component count but with 40% lower maximum data rate.
Availability
MAX232EIN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial terminal interfaces, legacy modem connectivity, and battery-powered diagnostic tools requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for MAX232EIN 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 delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.
The MAX232EIN belongs to TI's legacy RS-232 interface product line, engineered specifically for robust, single-supply serial communication in industrial control, instrumentation, and embedded computing applications where reliability and long-term availability are critical.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range of the MAX232EIN?
The MAX232EIN is rated for operation from –40°C to +85°C, making it suitable for industrial environments where ambient temperatures exceed commercial-grade limits. This range is confirmed in Section 5.3 "Recommended Operating Conditions" of the official TI datasheet SLLS723D, and applies specifically to the MAX232EIN variant with PDIP packaging and "I" grade marking. The MAX232EIN maintains full RS-232-F compliance and ESD performance across this entire range.
Does the MAX232EIN require external capacitors, and what values are needed?
Yes, the MAX232EIN requires four external 1µF capacitors (C1–C4) to operate its internal charge-pump voltage generator. These capacitors enable generation of ±8.5V rails from the 5V supply and are mandatory for RS-232 output compliance. Ceramic dielectrics are recommended; tantalum or electrolytic types may be used if polarity is observed. Capacitor values between 1µF and 10µF are acceptable, but deviation below 1µF risks insufficient voltage regulation and failure to meet RS-232-F output swing requirements.
Can the MAX232EIN be used with 3.3V logic systems?
The MAX232EIN accepts 0V/5V TTL/CMOS logic inputs (DIN1/DIN2) and delivers 0.4V/3.5V logic outputs (ROUT1/ROUT2), so it is not directly compatible with 3.3V-only logic families without level-shifting. Its input thresholds are defined for 5V systems (VIH = 2V min, VIL = 0.8V max), and its ROUT high-level output is 3.5V min - sufficient for driving 5V-tolerant 3.3V inputs but marginal for strict 3.3V CMOS. For native 3.3V operation, TI recommends the MAX3232EPE instead of the MAX232EIN.
What is the maximum data rate supported by the MAX232EIN?
The MAX232EIN supports a maximum data rate of 250kbit/s, as specified in Section 5.8 "Switching Characteristics: Driver" of the TI datasheet SLLS723D. This rating assumes one DOUT channel switching under nominal conditions (VCC = 5V, TA = 25°C, CL = 2.5nF). At lower temperatures or with heavier capacitive loads, the effective rate may decrease; for reliable operation at 250kbit/s, keep trace capacitance below 50pF and use proper termination practices.
How does the MAX232EIN handle RS-232 bus faults such as open or shorted lines?
The MAX232EIN receivers implement fail-safe design: when RIN1 or RIN2 is open-circuited or shorted to ground, the corresponding ROUT output defaults to a logic-high state. This behavior prevents UART framing errors or false start-bit detection during cable disconnection or bus contention. The receiver input hysteresis (0.2V–1V) further enhances noise immunity on electrically noisy RS-232 lines - a key reliability feature confirmed in Section 6.3.3 and Table 6-2 of the MAX232EIN datasheet.
MAX232EIN Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm)
- Packaging:
- Tube
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Transceiver
- Protocol:
- RS232
- Number of Drivers/Receivers:
- 2/2
- Duplex:
- Full
- Receiver Hysteresis:
- 500 mV
- Data Rate:
- 250kbps
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Through Hole
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-PDIP
MAX232EIN FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX232EIN through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX232EIN 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 MAX232EIN reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX232EIN are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX232EIN is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX232EIN?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX232EIN transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX232EIN?
MAX232EIN orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX232EIN 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 MAX232EIN?
For technical support, including MAX232EIN datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX232EIN requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX232EIN is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX232EIN 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 MAX232EIN meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX232EIN?
All MAX232EIN units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX232EIN, 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 MAX232EIN part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX232EIN:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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