STMicroelectronics ST232ABDR
- Part No.:
- ST232ABDR
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
- Package:
- 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
ST232ABDR.pdf
- Description:
- IC TRANSCEIVER FULL 2/2 16SO
- Quantity:
- Payment:

- Shipping:

Inventory:5,397
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Product details
Overview
ST232ABDR from STMicroelectronics is a dual-transmitter/dual-receiver RS-232 interface IC operating from a single 5 V supply, compliant with EIA/TIA-232 and V.28 standards. It delivers ±9 V transmitter output swing, 400 kbps data rate, 0.1 µs receiver propagation delay, and draws only 1.5 mA typical supply current-enabling low-power portable RS-232 communication in space-constrained designs.
For engineers reviewing the ST232ABDR datasheet, ST232ABDR pinout, ST232ABDR application, or ST232ABDR equivalent, key selection criteria include its –40 to 85 °C industrial temperature range, SO-16 package compatibility, 4-capacitor charge-pump architecture, and ±30 V receiver input tolerance for robust noise immunity in noisy environments.
Technical Context
The ST232ABDR integrates two independent RS-232 transmitters and receivers on a single die, using an internal charge-pump voltage doubler and inverter to generate ±9 V from 5 V. Its logic-side I/O is TTL/CMOS compatible (VIL = 0.8 V, VIH = 1.4 V), while RS-232 side accepts ±30 V inputs and drives ±9 V outputs into 3 kΩ loads.
It features fast signal timing: 12 V/µs typical slew rate ensures clean edge transitions, and 0.1 µs typical receiver propagation delay supports high-speed serial links. The device avoids external ±12 V supplies by relying on four 0.1 µF external capacitors for charge-pump operation.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply voltage | 4.5–5.5 V - operates directly from standard 5 V logic rails without auxiliary supplies |
| Supply current (no load) | 1.5 mA typ - enables battery-powered operation for >100 hours on a 200 mAh cell |
| Transmitter output swing | ±9 V typ into 3 kΩ - meets RS-232 voltage compliance margin for long-cable or noisy environments |
| Data rate | 400 kbps typ - supports full-duplex UART communication at common modem and embedded rates |
| Receiver propagation delay | 0.1 µs typ - minimizes timing skew in high-speed serial handshaking and flow control |
| Receiver input range | ±30 V - withstands large ground potential differences and ESD transients without clamping diodes |
| Slew rate | 12 V/µs typ - balances EMI reduction and signal integrity for reliable 10–20 m cable runs |
| Operating temperature | –40 to +85 °C - qualified for industrial-grade deployment in uncontrolled ambient conditions |
Pinout & Package
ST232ABDR is housed in a 16-pin SO-16 (Small Outline) package with 1.27 mm pitch, JEDEC MS-012AC compliant, RoHS-compliant and ECOPACK® certified.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 C1+ | Charge pump capacitor positive terminal | Connects to 0.1 µF capacitor for voltage doubling stage; critical for stable +10 V rail generation |
| 2 V+ | Doubled voltage output | Provides ~2×VCC (~10 V) to transmitter drivers; must be decoupled with 0.1 µF to GND |
| 3 C1− | Charge pump capacitor negative terminal | Completes first charge-pump loop; ties to GND via capacitor to enable voltage doubling |
| 4 C2+ | Second charge pump capacitor positive terminal | Connects to 0.1 µF capacitor for voltage inversion stage; enables –10 V rail generation |
| 5 C2− | Second charge pump capacitor negative terminal | Completes inversion loop; connects to V+ to generate inverted –V+ rail |
| 6 V− | Inverted voltage output | Provides ~–VCC (~–10 V) to transmitter drivers; requires local 0.1 µF decoupling |
| 7 T2OUT | Second transmitter RS-232 output | Drives RS-232 line (e.g., RTS or DTR) with ±9 V swing; open-drain not supported |
| 8 R2IN | Second receiver RS-232 input | Accepts ±30 V RS-232 signals (e.g., CTS or DSR); includes hysteresis for noise rejection |
| 9 R2OUT | Second receiver TTL/CMOS output | Delivers logic-level signal (0.4 V low / 3.5 V high) compatible with 5 V microcontrollers |
| 10 T2IN | Second transmitter TTL/CMOS input | Accepts 0–5 V logic input (e.g., from UART TX); threshold at 0.8–1.4 V ensures noise margin |
| 11 T1IN | First transmitter TTL/CMOS input | Primary UART TX input path; electrically identical to T2IN with same logic thresholds |
| 12 R1OUT | First receiver TTL/CMOS output | Primary UART RX output path; drives MCU RX pin with rail-to-rail CMOS-compatible levels |
| 13 R1IN | First receiver RS-232 input | Main RS-232 RX input (e.g., from DB9 pin 3); supports full ±30 V fault tolerance |
| 14 T1OUT | First transmitter RS-232 output | Main RS-232 TX output (e.g., to DB9 pin 2); delivers ±9 V swing into 3 kΩ load |
| 15 GND | Analog and digital ground reference | Single ground plane required; separates noisier charge-pump switching from logic paths |
| 16 VCC | Positive supply input | 5 V main power rail; must be bypassed with 0.1 µF ceramic capacitor close to pin |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Single 5 V supply operation | Eliminates need for ±12 V regulators or isolated DC/DC converters-reducing BOM count and board area |
| Ultra-low quiescent current | 1.5 mA typical supply current extends battery life in portable modems and handheld terminals |
| Integrated charge-pump circuitry | Generates ±9 V RS-232 levels using only four 0.1 µF external capacitors-no inductors or transformers |
| High ESD tolerance | ±30 V receiver input range provides inherent protection against system-level ESD and ground bounce |
| Fast propagation timing | 0.1 µs receiver delay and 1.3 µs transmitter delay support real-time UART handshaking at 400 kbps |
| Industrial temperature grade | –40 to +85 °C operation ensures reliability in factory automation, point-of-sale, and outdoor kiosk systems |
Applications
| Portable Computer Serial Interface | Low-Power Modem Data Link |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Connecting a laptop's UART to an external RS-232 peripheral (e.g., GPS module or barcode scanner) via compact USB-to-serial dongle. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Translates 5 V UART logic to ±9 V RS-232 signaling while maintaining sub-microsecond timing alignment between TX/RX paths. Use Value: Enables full-duplex 400 kbps communication with <1 µs total loop delay, preserving UART framing integrity across hot-plug events. |
Use Scenario: Embedded modem in battery-powered telemetry unit transmitting sensor data over PSTN lines. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides RS-232 physical layer interface with minimal power draw (1.5 mA idle) and automatic level translation for AT command handling. Use Value: Extends operational lifetime beyond 12 months on two AA alkaline cells due to ultra-low static current and efficient charge-pump design. |
| Industrial Equipment Interface Translation | Battery-Powered RS-232 Network Node |
|
Use Scenario: Retrofitting legacy PLCs with modern microcontroller-based HMI panels using RS-232 control links. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bridges 3.3 V/5 V logic domains to legacy ±12 V RS-232 infrastructure while tolerating ±30 V ground offset. Use Value: Prevents ground-loop damage and eliminates need for external isolation transformers in factory-floor deployments. |
Use Scenario: Wireless sensor node with RS-232 debug port and solar-charged Li-ion battery. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Provides always-on serial diagnostics port with wake-on-RS232 capability and 0.1 µs receiver response for rapid firmware updates. Use Value: Supports remote field maintenance without interrupting primary wireless operation-charge-pump remains active during sleep modes. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar dual-channel RS-232 transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX232ACPE+ | Same 5 V supply, but requires five 1 µF capacitors; higher 10 mA supply current; 0–70 °C grade only | Limited to commercial-temperature environments; less suitable for industrial enclosures or outdoor use | Select when cost sensitivity outweighs temperature range and power requirements |
| SP3232EEN-L | Lower 1 mA supply current, 3.0–5.5 V supply range, and 3 V logic compatibility; ±15 kV ESD rating | Supports mixed-voltage systems (3.3 V MCU + RS-232) and harsher ESD environments (e.g., medical devices) | Select when interfacing with 3.3 V microcontrollers or requiring IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 ESD protection |
Compared with MAX232ACPE+ and SP3232EEN-L, the ST232ABDR offers the widest industrial temperature range (–40 to +85 °C) and lowest power consumption among SO-16 dual RS-232 transceivers with 4-capacitor architecture-making it optimal for ruggedized portable and embedded systems where thermal stability and battery efficiency are prioritized.
Availability
ST232ABDR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable computer interfaces, low-power modem data links, and industrial equipment interface translation requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.
Supply support for ST232ABDR 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 sensor solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The ST232ABDR belongs to ST's legacy RS-232 interface product line, engineered specifically for low-power, single-supply serial communication in space- and energy-constrained embedded systems.
FAQ
What is the minimum number of external capacitors required for ST232ABDR operation?
The ST232ABDR requires exactly four 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors (C1+ to C2−) to operate its internal charge-pump voltage doubler and inverter. These capacitors must be placed within 5 mm of their respective pins and rated for ≥16 V working voltage. No bypass or additional capacitors are needed for basic functionality.
Can ST232ABDR interface directly with a 3.3 V microcontroller?
Yes-the ST232ABDR's TTL/CMOS inputs accept logic-high thresholds as low as 1.4 V (typical), and its outputs drive 0.4 V low / 3.5 V high levels compatible with 3.3 V I/O. However, ensure the microcontroller's output high voltage exceeds 1.4 V under load, and verify VOH remains above 2.4 V at the ST232ABDR input pin.
Does ST232ABDR support automatic power-down or shutdown mode?
No-the ST232ABDR has no dedicated shutdown pin or internal power-down state. Its supply current remains at ~1.5 mA (typ) whenever VCC is applied. To reduce power, external switching of VCC or use of a discrete MOSFET gate driver is required; no quiescent current reduction occurs below VCC = 4.5 V.
Is the SO-16 package of ST232ABDR lead-free and RoHS compliant?
Yes-the ST232ABDR in SO-16 packaging carries ST's ECOPACK® designation, indicating lead-free second-level interconnects, RoHS compliance (2011/65/EU), and adherence to JEDEC JESD97 marking standards. The inner reel box label confirms Pb-free status and maximum soldering profile limits.
ST232ABDR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Transceiver
- Protocol:
- RS232
- Number of Drivers/Receivers:
- 2/2
- Duplex:
- Full
- Receiver Hysteresis:
- 500 mV
- Data Rate:
- 400kbps
- Voltage - Supply:
- 4.5V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- -40°C ~ 85°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-SO
ST232ABDR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ST232ABDR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ST232ABDR 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 ST232ABDR reliable?
The price and inventory of ST232ABDR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ST232ABDR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ST232ABDR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ST232ABDR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ST232ABDR?
ST232ABDR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ST232ABDR 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 ST232ABDR?
For technical support, including ST232ABDR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ST232ABDR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ST232ABDR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ST232ABDR 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 ST232ABDR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ST232ABDR?
All ST232ABDR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ST232ABDR, 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 ST232ABDR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ST232ABDR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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