Press Release

+3.0V, 1 µA, ±15kV ESD-PROTECTED RS-232 TRANSCEIVERS FOR CELL PHONES AND PDAs

SUNNYVALE, CA-August 2, 1999-Maxim Integrated Products introduces the MAX3386E/MAX3387E RS-232 transceivers, featuring a unique V_L pin that allows the devices to interoperate with various logic levels. Input and output logic levels are pin-programmable through the V_L pin, eliminating the need for level shifters in mixed-logic voltage systems. All RS-232 inputs and outputs are protected to ±15kV using the IEC 1000-4-2 Air Gap Discharge Method, ±8kV using the IEC 1000-4-2 Contact Discharge Method, and ±15kV using the Human Body Model.

A proprietary low-dropout transmitter output stage enables true RS-232 performance over a full +3.0V to +5.5V supply via a dual charge pump, and the devices consume only 1µA supply current in shutdown mode. Each device is guaranteed to run at a 250kbps data rate, and the charge pump requires only four small 0.1µF capacitors. The MAX3386E has two receivers and three transmitters, whereas the MAX3387E has three receivers and three transmitters.

The MAX3386E/MAX3387E are available in both the commercial (0°C to +70°C) and extended (-40°C to +85°C) temperature ranges, in space-saving 20-pin TSSOP packages. Prices start from $2.52 (1000-up, FOB USA).