STMicroelectronics ST202CTR

Overview

ST202CTR 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 robust serial communication in space-constrained, single-supply systems such as portable computers and battery-powered modems.

For engineers reviewing the ST202CTR datasheet, ST202CTR pinout, ST202CTR application, or ST202CTR equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5 V-only operation (no ±12 V required), integrated charge-pump voltage generation using only four 0.1 µF capacitors, ±30 V receiver input tolerance, and compatibility with industry-standard MAX202 footprint and functionality.

Technical Context

The ST202CTR integrates two independent RS-232 transmitters and receivers in a single IC, each with TTL/CMOS-compatible logic interfaces and true RS-232 voltage-level outputs/inputs. Its on-chip charge pump generates ±VCC-derived V+ and V− rails from a single 5 V supply, eliminating external high-voltage sources.

Transmitter outputs feature 300 Ω typical output resistance and ±9 V swing into 3 kΩ loads, while receivers provide 5 kΩ typical input resistance, 0.5 V hysteresis, and propagation delay under 0.5 µs - ensuring reliable signal integrity at up to 400 kbps over noisy industrial or mobile links.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ST202CTR is available in SO16 package (10.0 × 7.5 mm body, 1.27 mm pitch), per ST's ECOPACK®-compliant SO16 mechanical specification (DocID7313 Rev 9, Section 6.1). Pin count: 16. Lead finish: matte tin.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX202CPE+, ST202CTR offers wider temperature range (–40 to 85 °C) and surface-mount SO16 packaging for automated manufacturing; versus SP3222EBCY-L, it provides proven pin compatibility with MAX202 layouts but lacks 3.3 V native support and shutdown mode.

Availability

ST202CTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable computing, industrial HMI, and medical diagnostic equipment requiring stable component supply, long-term lifecycle support, and RoHS-compliant sourcing.

Supply support for ST202CTR 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 microcontrollers, power management ICs, sensors, and interface solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

The ST202CTR belongs to ST's legacy RS-232 transceiver product line, engineered specifically for cost-sensitive, space-constrained embedded systems needing robust, single-supply serial communication without external voltage converters.

FAQ

What is the maximum recommended trace length for ST202CTR-driven RS-232 lines?

STMicroelectronics specifies reliable operation up to 15 m at 400 kbps with proper termination and shielding. At lower data rates (e.g., 9.6 kbps), lengths up to 30 m are achievable. Performance depends on cable capacitance (<2500 pF total), noise environment, and receiver input hysteresis - the ST202CTR's 0.5 V hysteresis helps maintain margin on longer runs.

Can ST202CTR operate with 3.3 V logic inputs?

Yes - ST202CTR transmitter inputs (T1IN/T2IN) accept TTL/CMOS logic levels with VIH(min) = 1.4 V and VIL(max) = 0.8 V at VCC = 5 V, making them compatible with 3.3 V GPIOs. However, the device itself requires a 5 V supply; it does not support 3.3 V VCC operation.

Does ST202CTR require external voltage regulators for its charge pump?

No - the ST202CTR integrates a DC-DC charge pump that generates ±VCC-derived V+ and V− rails internally using only four 0.1 µF external capacitors. No external regulators, transformers, or high-voltage supplies are needed, simplifying design and reducing bill-of-materials cost.

Is ST202CTR pin-compatible with ST202BDR or ST202CDR variants?

Yes - all ST202x variants (including ST202BDR, ST202CDR, and ST202CTR) share identical pinout, electrical characteristics, and functional behavior. Differences are limited to temperature grade (–40 to 85 °C vs. 0 to 70 °C) and package type (SO16 vs. TSSOP16 vs. SO16L), not pin assignment or logic mapping.