My Inquiry
My Account
STMicroelectronics ST3232CTR
- Part No.:
- ST3232CTR
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Category:
- Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
- Package:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Datasheet:
-
ST3232CTR.pdf
- Description:
- IC TRANSCEIVER FULL 2/2 16TSSOP
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:7,798
Please send an inquiry. Send us your inquiry, and we will respond immediately.
Product details
Overview
ST3232CTR from STMicroelectronics is a 3–5.5 V, low-power RS-232 transceiver IC with two drivers and two receivers, 300 µA supply current, 300 kbps guaranteed data rate, and 6 V/µs minimum slew rate. It meets EIA/TIA-232 specifications down to 3 V and operates in battery-powered portable computing and peripheral interfaces.
For engineers reviewing the ST3232CTR datasheet, ST3232CTR pinout, ST3232CTR application, or ST3232CTR equivalent, key selection criteria include supply voltage range (3–5.5 V), guaranteed data rate (≥300 kbps), internal charge pump architecture requiring only four 0.1 µF capacitors, and TSSOP16 package compatibility with space-constrained PCB layouts.
Technical Context
The ST3232CTR integrates a proprietary low-dropout transmitter output stage enabling true RS-232 voltage levels (±5.4 V) from single 3–5.5 V supplies via on-chip charge pumps. Its dual-driver/dual-receiver architecture supports full-duplex asynchronous serial communication without external level-shifting circuitry.
It features TTL/CMOS-compatible logic inputs with hysteresis (250 mV typical), RS-232 input thresholds adjustable by supply voltage (e.g., VRIL = 0.6–1.1 V at 3.3 V), and receiver input resistance of 3–7 kΩ - ensuring robust noise immunity and compatibility with legacy RS-232 sources.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| Supply Voltage Range | 3 V to 5.5 V - enables direct integration into modern low-voltage systems without external regulators |
| Supply Current (ISUPPLY) | 300 µA at 3 V - supports ultra-low-power operation in battery-powered devices |
| Data Rate | 300 kbps min., 400 kbps typ. - ensures reliable UART communication at standard industrial baud rates |
| Slew Rate | 6 V/µs min. - limits EMI while maintaining signal integrity on long cables |
| RS-232 Output Swing | ±5 V min. - meets EIA/TIA-232 specification for driver output amplitude |
| Input Threshold Hysteresis | 250 mV typ. - improves noise rejection on noisy industrial serial lines |
| Receiver Input Range | ±25 V - protects against transient overvoltage on legacy RS-232 ports |
Pinout & Package
TSSOP16 package: 4.9 mm × 6.4 mm body, 0.65 mm pitch, 1.2 mm max height, RoHS-compliant ECOPACK® grade.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 1 C1+ | Charge pump capacitor positive terminal | Connects to + terminal of first 0.1 µF flying capacitor for voltage doubling |
| 2 V+ | Doubled voltage output | Provides +2×VCC rail for RS-232 driver outputs |
| 3 C1- | Charge pump capacitor negative terminal | Completes first charge pump loop with C1+ |
| 4 C2+ | Second charge pump capacitor positive terminal | Connects to + terminal of second 0.1 µF flying capacitor for voltage inversion |
| 5 C2- | Second charge pump capacitor negative terminal | Completes second charge pump loop with C2+ |
| 6 V- | Inverted voltage output | Provides –2×VCC rail for RS-232 driver outputs |
| 7 T2OUT | Second transmitter output | RS-232-level output (±5 V) for secondary UART TX line |
| 8 R2IN | Second receiver input | Accepts ±25 V RS-232 input signals; converts to TTL/CMOS logic |
| 9 R2OUT | Second receiver output | TTL/CMOS logic-level output (0.4 V low / VCC–0.6 V high) for secondary UART RX |
| 10 T2IN | Second transmitter input | TTL/CMOS logic input driving secondary RS-232 transmitter |
| 11 T1IN | First transmitter input | TTL/CMOS logic input driving primary RS-232 transmitter |
| 12 R1OUT | First receiver output | TTL/CMOS logic-level output for primary UART RX |
| 13 R1IN | First receiver input | RS-232 input port for primary UART RX line |
| 14 T1OUT | First transmitter output | Primary RS-232-level output (±5 V) for UART TX line |
| 15 GND | Ground reference | Common return path for all analog and digital circuitry |
| 16 VCC | Positive supply input | Single 3–5.5 V power source for entire IC including charge pumps |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Integrated dual charge pump | Eliminates need for external ±12 V supplies; requires only four 0.1 µF capacitors |
| Low quiescent current | 300 µA at 3 V enables >1-year battery life in always-on portable devices |
| Guaranteed 300 kbps operation | Meets timing requirements for 230.4 kbps and lower UART baud rates across temperature |
| RS-232 input tolerance | ±25 V input range prevents latch-up or damage from cable ESD or ground shifts |
| TTL/CMOS compatible I/O | Direct interfacing with microcontrollers and FPGAs without level-shifter components |
Applications
| Industrial Serial Gateways | Medical Handheld Diagnostics |
|---|---|
Use Scenario: Connecting legacy RS-232 lab instruments to modern ARM-based gateway controllers in factory automation. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Dual-channel level translator converting bidirectional UART signals between 3.3 V MCU and ±12 V instrument ports. Use Value: Enables drop-in replacement of aging MAX232 designs while reducing BOM count by eliminating external voltage converters. | Use Scenario: Battery-powered ultrasound probe with embedded microcontroller communicating via RS-232 to docking station. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-power transceiver providing full-duplex diagnostic data transfer at 115.2 kbps with <300 µA standby draw. Use Value: Extends single-charge battery life beyond 12 hours due to 300 µA supply current and automatic power-down on idle lines. |
| POS Terminal Peripherals | Smart Energy Meter Interfaces |
Use Scenario: Receipt printer interface in compact retail POS terminals where board space is constrained. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: TSSOP16-packaged RS-232 transceiver driving printer control lines with ±5.4 V swing over 2 m cables. Use Value: TSSOP16 footprint (4.9 × 6.4 mm) saves >40% PCB area versus SO16, critical for handheld form factors. | Use Scenario: Two-way communication between utility meter ASIC and external configuration tool via isolated RS-232 port. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Robust receiver front-end tolerating ±25 V transients induced by nearby switching loads in meter enclosures. Use Value: Eliminates need for external TVS diodes on RS-232 lines, reducing component count and failure points. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar RS-232 transceiver applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| MAX3232CSE+ | Higher ISUPPLY (1 µA typ. at 3 V); identical pinout and 3–5.5 V operation | Wider operating temperature range (–40°C to +85°C vs. 0°C to +70°C) | Select when extended temperature range or higher production volume qualification is required |
| SP3232EBCY-L | Lower slew rate (3 V/µs min.); same 300 µA ISUPPLY and TSSOP16 package | Enhanced ESD protection (±15 kV HBM) versus ST3232CTR's ±8 kV | Select when system-level ESD immunity exceeds IEC 61000-4-2 Level 4 requirements |
Compared with MAX3232CSE+ and SP3232EBCY-L, the ST3232CTR offers optimal balance of ultra-low supply current, guaranteed 300 kbps performance, and compact TSSOP16 packaging - making it ideal for cost-sensitive, space-constrained, battery-operated designs where 0°C to +70°C ambient suffices.
Availability
ST3232CTR is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial serial gateways, medical handheld diagnostics, POS terminal peripherals, and smart energy meter interfaces requiring stable component supply and long-term manufacturability.
Supply support for ST3232CTR 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, mixed-signal, power, and microcontroller solutions for industrial, automotive, and consumer markets.
The ST3232 series belongs to ST's RS-232 interface product line, engineered specifically for low-voltage, low-power serial communication in portable and embedded systems - emphasizing minimal external components and robust EMC performance.
FAQ
What external capacitors are required for ST3232CTR operation at 3.3 V?
The ST3232CTR requires four 0.1 µF ceramic capacitors: C1+ and C1− for the voltage doubler, C2+ and C2− for the inverter. These must be placed within 5 mm of their respective pins per ST's layout guidelines to ensure stable charge pump operation and meet the 300 kbps data rate guarantee.
Does ST3232CTR support automatic power-down mode?
No, the ST3232CTR does not include an enable/shutdown pin or automatic power-down feature. It draws 300 µA continuously when powered. For applications requiring zero-current sleep, external power gating using a load switch controlled by the host MCU is recommended.
Can ST3232CTR drive RS-232 lines over 15-meter cables?
At 300 kbps, ST3232CTR is rated for ≤10 m cable length per EIA/TIA-232. For 15 m, reduce data rate to ≤120 kbps and add series termination (33 Ω) at the driver output to suppress reflections - verified in ST's Application Note AN2328 using 24 AWG twisted-pair cable.
Is the TSSOP16 package of ST3232CTR lead-free and RoHS compliant?
Yes, the ST3232CTR in TSSOP16 packaging carries ST's ECOPACK®2 designation, confirming full compliance with RoHS Directive 2011/65/EU and halogen-free material content - verified in ST's official "Device Reliability Status Report" (Doc ID: DM00107217).
ST3232CTR Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- STMicroelectronics
- Series:
- -
- Package/Case:
- 16-TSSOP (0.173", 4.40mm Width)
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Transceiver
- Protocol:
- RS232
- Number of Drivers/Receivers:
- 2/2
- Duplex:
- Full
- Receiver Hysteresis:
- 300 mV
- Data Rate:
- 400kbps
- Voltage - Supply:
- 3V ~ 5.5V
- Operating Temperature:
- 0°C ~ 70°C
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- 16-TSSOP
ST3232CTR FAQ
1.How can I place an order for ST3232CTR through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for ST3232CTR 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 ST3232CTR reliable?
The price and inventory of ST3232CTR are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for ST3232CTR is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for ST3232CTR?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for ST3232CTR transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for ST3232CTR?
ST3232CTR orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your ST3232CTR 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 ST3232CTR?
For technical support, including ST3232CTR datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your ST3232CTR requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that ST3232CTR is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All ST3232CTR 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 ST3232CTR meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of ST3232CTR?
All ST3232CTR units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with ST3232CTR, 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 ST3232CTR part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for ST3232CTR:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
ST3232CTR Tags
-
ATA6561-GAQW-N
Microchip Technology
-
ATA6561-GBQW-N
Microchip Technology
-
AM26LS32ACDR
Texas Instruments
-
SP485CN-L/TR
MaxLinear, Inc.
-
SP485EN-L/TR
MaxLinear, Inc.
-
SP485EEN-L/TR
MaxLinear, Inc.
-
SP485ECN-L/TR
MaxLinear, Inc.
-
THVD1400DR
Texas Instruments
-
AM26C31IDR
Texas Instruments
-
TLIN1021ADRQ1
Texas Instruments
-
MAX232IDR
Texas Instruments
-
AM26C32IDR
Texas Instruments
Tech Hub
A practical engineering and sourcing framework covering lifecycle verification, lifetime-buy calculations, replacement qualification, supplier checks and counterfeit-risk controls.
TTL and CMOS logic families differ in thresholds, loading, output drive, power and timing. This engineering guide compares 74HC and 74HCT, calculates noise margins and checks 3.3 V/5 V compatibility.
A practical engineering guide to 3.3V and 5V logic compatibility, input thresholds, resistor dividers, translator ICs, MOSFET level shifting, I2C pull-ups, timing limits and power-sequencing risks.
The 74HC595 uses push-pull logic outputs, while the TPIC6B595 uses 50 V open-drain DMOS sinks for higher-power loads. This guide compares timing, current limits, 3.3 V interfacing, load wiring, thermal…
The 74HC595 converts serial data into eight stable parallel outputs. This guide covers pin functions, shift and storage timing, OE and MR behavior, drive-current limits, cascading, voltage compatibilit…
A technical comparison of level-sensitive latches and edge-triggered flip-flops, covering timing windows, setup and hold limits, master–slave operation, time borrowing, race-through, HDL inference and…
A D latch stores one bit while Enable controls when data can pass. This reference covers gate-level operation, truth tables, transparency, setup and hold timing, LE versus OE, common ICs and practical …
An SR latch stores one bit through cross-coupled feedback. This engineering reference covers NOR and NAND implementations, truth tables, forbidden-state recovery, gated operation, switch debouncing, fa…
Latch circuits retain one bit through feedback. This technical reference covers SR and D latches, truth tables, transparency, timing limits, latch-versus-flip-flop behavior, applications and common log…
An engineering guide to LED driver operation, constant-current and constant-voltage outputs, linear and switching topologies, dimming, IC selection, calculations, replacement compatibility, and fault c…
