Texas Instruments MAX3243CDBR
- Part No.:
- MAX3243CDBR
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Category:
- Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
- Package:
- 28-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
MAX3243CDBR.pdf
- Description:
- IC TRANSCEIVER FULL 3/5 28SSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:1,488
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Product details
Overview
MAX3243CDBR from Texas Instruments is a 3V–5.5V single-supply RS-232 transceiver IC with three drivers, five receivers, ±15kV HBM ESD protection on bus pins, 250kbit/s data rate, and auto-powerdown functionality. It serves as a complete serial port interface for IBM PC/AT-compatible DTE systems, enabling direct UART-to-RS-232 conversion in space-constrained portable devices.
For engineers reviewing the MAX3243CDBR datasheet, MAX3243CDBR pinout, MAX3243CDBR application, or MAX3243CDBR equivalent, this device delivers verified RS-232 compliance (TIA/EIA-232-F, ITU V.28), low active current (300μA typ), always-active ROUT2B for ring indicator monitoring, INVALID output for RS-232 presence detection, and flexible power control via FORCEON/FORCEOFF pins.
Technical Context
The MAX3243CDBR integrates a dual charge-pump circuit generating ±VCC-derived V+ and V− rails from a single 3V–5.5V supply, eliminating need for dual supplies. Its five receivers include an always-enabled noninverting ROUT2B output and an INVALID status flag that asserts low when all RIN inputs remain within ±0.3V for >30μs.
Driver operation supports auto-powerdown mode (enabled when FORCEON = low, FORCEOFF = high), disabling DOUT outputs during RS-232 inactivity to reduce ICC to 1μA typical. The device accepts 5V-tolerant logic inputs even at 3.3V VCC, and features internal 5kΩ receiver termination per channel.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VCC Supply Range | 3.0 V to 5.5 V - Enables direct integration with 3.3V or 5V system rails without level-shifting. |
| ESD Protection (HBM) | ±15 kV on RIN/DOUT/GND pins - Eliminates need for external TVS diodes in handheld and tablet designs. |
| Data Rate | Up to 250 kbit/s - Supports full-speed RS-232 communication including modem handshaking and serial mouse protocols. |
| Active Supply Current | 300 μA typical - Minimizes battery drain in always-on serial interfaces for portable equipment. |
| Standby Supply Current | 1 μA typical - Achieved via FORCEOFF-driven shutdown, critical for long-term battery life in sleep modes. |
| Receiver Input Threshold | VIT+ = 1.6–2.4 V, VIT− = 0.6–1.4 V - Ensures robust noise immunity against ground bounce and crosstalk in noisy environments. |
| INVALID Output Logic | Active-low, asserted when all RIN voltages stay within ±0.3 V for >30 μs - Provides hardware-level RS-232 cable-detect capability without firmware polling. |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP-28 package (9.7 mm × 6.4 mm), lead-free, RoHS-compliant, surface-mountable with 0.65 mm pitch.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| C1+, C1−, C2+, C2− | Charge-pump capacitor connections | Interface external 0.1 μF ceramic capacitors to generate ±VCC rails for RS-232 voltage levels. |
| V+, V− | Charge-pump output rails | Provide regulated ±10 V (typ) outputs to drive RS-232 drivers; require no external regulation. |
| RIN1–RIN5 | RS-232 receiver inputs | Accept ±25 V RS-232 signals; each includes internal 5 kΩ termination to GND for standard load compliance. |
| DOUT1–DOUT3 | RS-232 driver outputs | Deliver ±5.4 V (min) RS-232 outputs into 3 kΩ loads; support serial mouse driveability per spec. |
| DIN1–DIN3 | Logic-level driver inputs | Accept 3.3V/5V CMOS/TTL logic; 5V-tolerant at 3.3V VCC, enabling mixed-voltage system interfacing. |
| ROUT1–ROUT5 | Logic-level receiver outputs | Drive UART or microcontroller inputs with VOH ≥ VCC − 0.6 V and VOL ≤ 0.4 V. |
| ROUT2B | Always-active RIN2 output | Noninverting output remains functional even during auto-powerdown - enables ring indicator detection while powered down. |
| INVALID | RS-232 presence flag | Asserts low only when all five RIN inputs are unpowered or disconnected - used for cable-detect and wake-up signaling. |
| FORCEON / FORCEOFF | Power-mode control inputs | FORCEOFF = low disables all outputs except ROUT2B/INVALID; FORCEON = high overrides auto-powerdown. |
| VCC, GND | Supply and reference | Single 3V–5.5V supply input; GND pin provides common return for charge pump and logic sections. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Single-supply RS-232 interface | Eliminates need for ±12V supplies - reduces BOM count and PCB area in battery-powered systems. |
| Auto-powerdown with <1μA standby | Reduces system power by >99% during serial inactivity - extends runtime in tablets and notebooks. |
| Always-active ROUT2B output | Enables ring indicator monitoring without waking main system - supports low-power wake-on-ring functionality. |
| Hardware INVALID status flag | Provides real-time RS-232 cable/connection status without software polling or timer overhead. |
| 5V-tolerant DIN inputs at 3.3V VCC | Permits direct connection to legacy 5V UARTs without external level shifters - simplifies design reuse. |
Applications
| Industrial Handheld Terminals | Medical Point-of-Care Devices |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Portable diagnostic instruments requiring reliable serial communication with legacy lab equipment via DB9 cables. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: RS-232 transceiver providing bidirectional UART-to-RS232 conversion with ±15kV ESD protection on exposed connector pins. Use Value: Prevents field failures from electrostatic discharge during clinical handling; auto-powerdown extends battery life between patient measurements. |
Use Scenario: Bedside monitors connecting to central nursing stations using RS-232 for alarm forwarding and data logging. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Isolates sensitive analog front-end from noisy digital serial bus; INVALID output confirms cable integrity before data transmission. Use Value: Ensures continuous connectivity verification without CPU intervention; ROUT2B supports ring-indicator-based emergency call signaling. |
| Tablet Docking Stations | Automated Test Equipment (ATE) |
Use Scenario: Tablet-based test controllers interfacing with legacy instrumentation via RS-232 ports in manufacturing test fixtures. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Level translator and bus driver enabling 3.3V SoC to drive full RS-232 voltage swings (±5.4V) over 15m cables. Use Value: Guarantees signal integrity at 250kbit/s across long cables; 5V-tolerant DIN inputs accept signals from older 5V test peripherals. |
Use Scenario: Rack-mounted ATE modules communicating with DUTs using RS-232 handshaking (RTS/CTS) and serial configuration commands. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Three-driver/five-receiver configuration supports full modem control signal routing (TXD/RXD/RTS/CTS/DSR/DTR/DCD). Use Value: Reduces component count vs discrete solutions; FORCEON/FORCEOFF pins enable precise per-port power sequencing in multi-DUT systems. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RS-232 transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3232ECDR | 2-driver/2-receiver configuration; same TSSOP-16 package; identical ±15kV ESD and 250kbit/s rating. | Lacks ROUT2B, INVALID, and auto-powerdown - unsuitable for cable-detect or ultra-low-power wake-up use cases. | Select when only basic TX/RX required and board space is constrained to 16-pin footprint. |
| SP3243CA-L | Pin-compatible TSSOP-28; same 3–5.5V range and 250kbit/s; ±15kV ESD; but no ROUT2B or INVALID outputs. | Missing always-active ring indicator path and hardware cable-detect - requires firmware polling of receiver inputs. | Choose for cost-sensitive designs where ROUT2B/INVALID functionality is not needed and TI sourcing is restricted. |
Compared with MAX3243CDBR, MAX3232ECDR reduces channel count and eliminates power-management intelligence, while SP3243CA-L retains pinout compatibility but removes two key diagnostics features - making MAX3243CDBR uniquely suited for battery-powered systems requiring autonomous serial link supervision.
Availability
MAX3243CDBR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial handheld terminals, medical point-of-care devices, and tablet docking stations requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and guaranteed RoHS-compliant sourcing.
Supply support for MAX3243CDBR 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 leader specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with decades of expertise in interface ICs and power-efficient signal conditioning.
The MAX3243 product line delivers integrated RS-232 solutions for portable and battery-operated systems, emphasizing single-supply operation, ultra-low quiescent current, and robust ESD protection - directly addressing design challenges in mobile computing and medical electronics.
FAQ
What is the operating temperature range for the MAX3243CDBR?
The MAX3243CDBR is rated for 0°C to +70°C ambient operation, matching the 'C' grade designation in its part number. This range is validated across all electrical specifications including driver output voltage, receiver threshold accuracy, and auto-powerdown timing parameters. The device maintains full RS-232 compliance (TIA/EIA-232-F) throughout this range when used with recommended 0.1μF external capacitors and proper PCB layout.
How does the auto-powerdown feature work in the MAX3243CDBR?
The MAX3243CDBR enters auto-powerdown when FORCEON is low and FORCEOFF is high. In this mode, if all RIN inputs remain within ±0.3V for more than 30μs, the driver outputs (DOUT1–DOUT3) go high-impedance and supply current drops to 1μA typical. Valid RS-232 signals on any RIN immediately re-enable drivers. ROUT2B and INVALID remain fully operational during auto-powerdown, enabling wake-up and cable-detection functions.
Can the MAX3243CDBR interface a 3.3V microcontroller with a 5V RS-232 port?
Yes. The MAX3243CDBR accepts 5V logic-level inputs on DIN1–DIN3 even when VCC = 3.3V, and generates true RS-232 voltage levels (±5.4V min) on DOUT1–DOUT3. Its receivers tolerate ±25V inputs, ensuring compatibility with standard 5V RS-232 ports. No external level shifters or voltage translators are required - the IC handles both logic-level translation and bus-level voltage generation internally.
What is the purpose of the ROUT2B pin on the MAX3243CDBR?
ROUT2B is a dedicated, always-active noninverting output tied to RIN2. Unlike other receiver outputs, it remains functional even when FORCEOFF is asserted low or during auto-powerdown. This allows ring indicator (RI) signals from remote modems to be monitored continuously - enabling wake-on-ring functionality in battery-powered systems without powering the entire transceiver or host processor.
Which external capacitors are required for the MAX3243CDBR, and what values should be used?
The MAX3243CDBR requires four external 0.1μF ceramic capacitors (C1+, C1−, C2+, C2−) for charge-pump operation at 3.3V VCC. At 5V VCC, C1 should be 0.047μF and C2–C4 0.33μF. All capacitors must be placed close to their respective pins per layout guidelines. A 0.1μF bypass capacitor (CBYPASS) is also required between VCC and GND. Polarized capacitors must observe correct polarity as shown in Figure 8-1 of the datasheet.
MAX3243CDBR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Texas Instruments
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 28-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Transceiver
- Protocol:
- RS232
- Number of Drivers/Receivers:
- 3/5
- Duplex:
- Full
- Receiver Hysteresis:
- 300 mV
- Data Rate:
- 250kbps
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 28-SSOP
MAX3243CDBR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for MAX3243CDBR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for MAX3243CDBR 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 MAX3243CDBR reliable?
The price and inventory of MAX3243CDBR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for MAX3243CDBR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for MAX3243CDBR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for MAX3243CDBR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for MAX3243CDBR?
MAX3243CDBR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your MAX3243CDBR 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 MAX3243CDBR?
For technical support, including MAX3243CDBR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your MAX3243CDBR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that MAX3243CDBR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All MAX3243CDBR 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 MAX3243CDBR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of MAX3243CDBR?
All MAX3243CDBR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with MAX3243CDBR, 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 MAX3243CDBR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for MAX3243CDBR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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