STMicroelectronics ST3222EBPR

Overview

ST3222EBPR from STMicroelectronics is a ±15 kV ESD-protected, 3–5.5 V low-power RS-232 transceiver IC with dual drivers/receivers, 250 Kbps guaranteed data rate, 6 V/µs minimum slew rate, and 300 µA supply current. It operates across –40°C to +85°C and supports battery-powered portable systems requiring true RS-232 signaling from single-supply rails.

For engineers reviewing the ST3222EBPR datasheet, ST3222EBPR pinout, ST3222EBPR application, or ST3222EBPR equivalent, key selection criteria include shutdown current (1 µA), receiver input range (±25 V), transmitter output swing (±5 V), and SSOP20 package compatibility with space-constrained industrial and mobile designs.

Technical Context

The ST3222EBPR integrates a dual charge pump generating ±5.5 V from 3–5.5 V VCC, enabling full RS-232 voltage levels without external high-voltage supplies. Its proprietary low-dropout transmitter stage maintains compliance with EIA/TIA-232 down to 3 V.

It features independent EN and SHDN control: EN places receivers in high-Z state while preserving driver operation; SHDN disables transmitters and charge pump but keeps receivers active at 1 mA, enabling modem monitoring during low-power modes.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

ST3222EBPR is housed in a 20-pin SSOP (Shrink Small Outline Package) with 0.65 mm pitch, optimized for compact PCB layouts and automated assembly. The package is RoHS-compliant and ECOPACK® certified.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with MAX3222CSE+ and SP3222ECA-L, ST3222EBPR uniquely combines industrial temperature range, SSOP20 footprint, and receiver-active shutdown mode - making it optimal for space-constrained, battery-aware, and field-deployed serial interfaces where reliability across environmental extremes is mandatory.

Availability

ST3222EBPR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for notebook computers, battery-powered test equipment, and industrial HMIs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for ST3222EBPR 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, analog ICs, power management devices, and sensors for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.

The ST3222E series belongs to ST's RS-232 interface product line, engineered specifically for low-voltage, low-power, high-ESD robustness serial communication in portable and harsh-environment embedded systems.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage required for full RS-232 compliance?

The ST3222EBPR meets EIA/TIA-232 specifications down to 3 V supply, delivering ±5 V output swing into 3 kΩ loads and maintaining 250 Kbps data rate. Below 3 V, output voltage margins degrade and are not guaranteed per the datasheet's absolute minimum rating of 3 V.

Can the charge pump be bypassed to use external ±12 V supplies?

No - the ST3222EBPR does not support external V+ or V− injection. Its internal charge pump is integral to operation; externally applying voltages to V+ or V− violates absolute maximum ratings and risks device damage. The design assumes sole reliance on the internal dual charge pump.

How does the EN pin behave when SHDN is asserted?

When SHDN = high (disabled), EN remains functional: driving EN high places both receiver outputs in high-impedance state regardless of SHDN status. When SHDN = low, EN continues to control receiver output state, but transmitters and charge pump are inactive - only receivers operate at 1 mA.

Are the transmitter outputs short-circuit protected?

Yes - the ST3222EBPR specifies continuous short-to-ground tolerance on transmitter outputs (tSHORT = Continuous in Absolute Maximum Ratings). Output short-circuit current is limited to ±60 mA, preventing latch-up or thermal failure during accidental shorts to GND or VCC.