STMicroelectronics ST202BDR

Overview

ST202BDR from STMicroelectronics is a 5 V-powered, dual-transmitter/dual-receiver RS-232 interface IC compliant with EIA/TIA-232 and V.28 standards. It delivers ±9 V transmitter output swing, 400 kbps data rate, 1.5 mA no-load supply current, and operates across –40 to 85 °C - enabling compact, low-power RS-232 communication in portable computers and battery-powered networks.

For engineers reviewing the ST202BDR datasheet, ST202BDR pinout, ST202BDR application, or ST202BDR equivalent, key selection criteria include single-supply operation, ±30 V receiver input tolerance, 12 V/µs slew rate, and SO16 package compatibility with legacy MAX202 designs.

Technical Context

The ST202BDR integrates two charge-pump voltage doublers and inverters (V+, V−) to generate ±9 V RS-232 signaling from a single 5 V rail, using only four 0.1 µF external capacitors. Its TTL/CMOS logic interfaces directly with microcontrollers while its receivers tolerate ±30 V inputs and feature 0.5 V hysteresis for noise immunity.

Transmitter propagation delay is 3.5 µs max (TTL-to-RS232), and receiver propagation delay is 0.5 µs max (RS-232-to-TTL), supporting reliable full-duplex serial communication at up to 400 kbps under 150 pF load conditions.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ST202BDR is supplied in a 16-pin Small Outline (SO16) package per JEDEC MS-012, with 1.27 mm pitch, 10.0 mm × 6.0 mm body, and ECOPACK® RoHS-compliant finish.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-channel RS-232 transceiver applications.

Compared with MAX202CPE+, ST202BDR eliminates external power rails and cuts supply current by 50%; compared with SP3222EBCY-L, it offers higher data rate and direct SO16 drop-in capability but lacks shutdown mode.

Availability

ST202BDR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable computing, industrial sensor interfaces, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply and long-term obsolescence management.

Supply support for ST202BDR 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, designing and manufacturing analog, MCU, power, and sensing solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The ST202BDR belongs to ST's legacy RS-232 transceiver product line, engineered specifically for single-supply, low-pin-count, high-immunity serial interface applications in space-constrained and battery-sensitive systems.

FAQ

What is the minimum external capacitor value required for stable operation of ST202BDR?

The ST202BDR is characterized and guaranteed for stable operation with 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors on all four charge pump terminals (C1+, C1−, C2+, C2−). Using smaller values risks insufficient voltage regulation and output swing collapse; larger values (e.g., 1 µF) are acceptable but offer no performance benefit and increase footprint.

Does ST202BDR support automatic power-down or shutdown mode?

No, the ST202BDR does not include a shutdown control pin or automatic power-down feature. It draws 1.5 mA continuously when powered, even with no data activity. For applications requiring ultra-low standby current, consider alternatives like the SP3222EBCY-L (1 µA shutdown) or design external enable circuitry using VCC switching.

Can ST202BDR be used with 3.3 V logic systems?

Yes - the TTL/CMOS input thresholds (VIH = 1.4 V min, VIL = 0.8 V max) and output levels (VOH = 3.5 V min, VOL = 0.4 V max at specified loads) are fully compatible with 3.3 V logic families. No level-shifting circuitry is needed between ST202BDR and 3.3 V microcontrollers or FPGAs.

Is the SO16 package of ST202BDR lead-free and RoHS compliant?

Yes, the ST202BDR in SO16 packaging carries STMicroelectronics' ECOPACK® designation, confirming full compliance with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU, including lead-free terminations, halogen-free molding compound, and absence of intentionally added antimony, beryllium, cobalt, and other restricted substances.