MaximMAX 232N

The Texas Instruments MAX232N Dual RS-232 Transceiver 5V 120kbps 2Tx/2Rx PDIP-16 is a dual RS-232 driver/receiver with an integrated charge pump, designed to translate TTL/CMOS logic signals to TIA/EIA-232 levels from a single 5V supply.

Technical description

The exact MAX232N version is a Texas Instruments PDIP-16 device. It contains 2 drivers and 2 receivers, operates up to 120kbit/s and uses five external 1uF capacitors for charge-pump operation and decoupling. Receiver inputs tolerate levels up to +/-30V and typical supply current is approximately 8mA. The device meets TIA/EIA-232-F and ITU V.28 requirements.

Indicative applications

Suitable for RS-232 serial ports, UART interfaces, microcontrollers, industrial controllers, service equipment, embedded systems and TTL/CMOS-to-RS-232 conversion.

Compatibility note

The Texas Instruments N suffix denotes the PDIP-16 package. For direct replacement, verify the 16-pin pinout and the requirement for external 1uF capacitors. It is not a direct substitute for 3.3V transceivers where a 5V supply is unavailable.