MAX3238:+3.0V to +5.5V, 1µA, Up to 250kbps, True RS-232 Transceiver with AutoShutdown Plus

The MAX3238 true RS-232 transceiver achieves a 1µA supply current with Maxim's revolutionary AutoShutdown Plus™ feature. When the device does not sense a valid signal transition on either the receiver or transmitter inputs within 30sec, the on-board power supply and drivers shut down. This occurs if the RS-232 cable is disconnected or if the transmitters of the connected peripheral are inactive. The system turns on again when a valid transition is applied to any RS-232 receiver or transmitter input, saving power without changes to the existing BIOS or operating system. The MAX3238 5-driver/3-receiver complete serial port is a 3V-powered EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 communications interface intended for notebook or subnotebook computer applications. A proprietary, high-efficiency, dual charge-pump power supply and a low-dropout transmitter combine to deliver true RS-232 performance from a single +3.0V to +5.5V supply. A guaranteed data rate of 250kbps provides compatibility with popular software for communicating with personal computers. The MAX3238 requires only 0.1µF capacitors in 3.3V operation. It is ideal for 3.3V-only systems, mixed 3.3V and 5.0V systems, or 5V-only systems that require true RS-232 performance. Receiver R1 has an extra, always-active output (in addition to its standard output), which allows external devices, such as a modem, to be monitored without forward biasing the protection diodes in circuitry that may have VCC completely removed. The MAX3238 is available in a space-saving SSOP package.

Key Features
  • 1µA Supply Current Achieved with AutoShutdown Plus
  • Guaranteed Data Rate: 250kbps
  • 1µA Low-Power Shutdown
  • Receivers Active in AutoShutdown Plus Mode
  • Flow-Through Pinout
  • Meets EIA/TIA-232 Specifications Down to 3.0V
  • Guaranteed 6V/µs Slew Rate
  • Auto shutdown reduces supply current to 1uA
MAX3238: Typical Operating Circuit
MAX3238: Typical Operating Circuit
Applications/Uses
  • Battery-Powered Applications
  • Handheld Equipment
  • High-Speed Modems
  • Notebook, Subnotebook, and Palmtop Computers
  • Peripherals
  • Printers
DataSheet
titleDownload file
MAX3238 Data SheetMAX3238.pdf
Parametrics
Part NumberVSUPPLY
(V)
TxRxData Rate
(kbps)
ICC
(mA)
Internal Charge PumpExt. CapsCap. Value
(µF)
Rx Active in ShutdnPackage/PinsBudgetary
Price
mintypnomSee Notes
MAX32383.3
5
532500.5Yes40.10SSOP/28$3.85 @1k
Quality and Environmental Data
Ordering Information
Part NumberStatusRecommended ReplacementPackageTempRoHS
MAX3238CAINo Longer AvailableMAX3238CAI+SSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²0°C to +70°CSee data sheet
MAX3238CAI+ActiveSSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²0°C to +70°CLead Free
MAX3238CAI+TActiveSSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²0°C to +70°CLead Free
MAX3238CAI-TNo Longer AvailableMAX3238CAI+TSSOP;28 pin0°C to +70°CSee data sheet
MAX3238EAINo Longer AvailableMAX3238EAI+SSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²-40°C to +85°CSee data sheet
MAX3238EAI+ActiveSSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²-40°C to +85°CLead Free
MAX3238EAI+TActiveSSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²-40°C to +85°CLead Free
MAX3238EAI-TNo Longer AvailableMAX3238EAI+TSSOP,;28 pin;81.6 mm²-40°C to +85°CSee data sheet
MAX3238.pdf MAX3238
MAX3238.pdf MAX3238
MAX3238.pdf MAX3238
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