MAX3232CDB - 2/2 RS-232 Transceiver 3-5.5V | Texas Instruments
MPN: MAX3232CDB ✗ End of LifeMAX3232CDB Overview
An RS-232 transceiver is an interface IC that converts logic-level signals into RS-232 bipolar levels and converts received bipolar signals back into CMOS-compatible logic. The MAX3232CDB sits between an asynchronous communication controller and a serial-port connector, making it part of the interface IC hierarchy: RS-232 transceiver > line driver/receiver > communications interface > semiconductor. This type of circuit is used when a system must communicate over a longer cable or through a noisy connection than a direct TTL or CMOS serial link can support.
The principal benefits of the MAX3232CDB are its 3 V to 5.5 V supply range, 250 kbit/s operating speed, low typical supply current of 300 uA, and external-capacitor charge-pump implementation. The device uses 0.1 uF external capacitors, including the charge-pump capacitors and the recommended driver-side capacitor network. Its two-channel transmitter and receiver arrangement supports RS-232 links carrying two data channels while remaining compact in a 16-SSOP footprint.
The MAX3232 is based on the classic MAX3232 family, while the MAX3232E is described by Texas Instruments as an improved direct drop-in replacement for the MAX3232. The MAX3232E family can therefore be considered for new designs when its electrical details are verified against the system requirements. The MAX3232IPW is also listed in the site component set as a closely related MAX3232-family choice.
Typical applications include industrial serial-port equipment, test and measurement instruments, data acquisition systems, embedded-control consoles, and point-of-sale terminals. The MAX3232CDB is especially useful where a legacy RS-232 port must coexist with a modern low-voltage controller. Its integrated ESD protection improves robustness at the connector side, although cable routing, grounding, and connector selection remain important for reliable operation.
For a new design, use the manufacturer datasheet to confirm the exact pin assignments, capacitor connections, and recommended layout. Place the 0.1 uF charge-pump capacitors close to their associated pins, connect the charge-pump capacitor nodes exactly as shown in the datasheet schematic, and keep the RS-232 traces away from sensitive analog or high-speed digital paths. Treat the MAX3232CDB as a legacy RS-232 interface solution rather than a substitute for a modern differential bus such as RS-485.
This page combines the verified electrical and package characteristics with application guidance, drop-in alternatives, and practical PCB considerations for engineers evaluating the MAX3232CDB.
Drop-in alternatives for MAX3232CDB — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with MAX3232CDB (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Number of Drivers, Number of Receivers, Supply Voltage Range, ESD Protection.
MAX3232IPW
✅ Drop-InContact for price
View Datasheet →MAX3232EIPWG4
✅ Drop-InContact for price
View Datasheet →MAX3232CDB Specifications
| Product Type | RS-232 line driver/receiver transceiver |
| Number of Drivers | 2 |
| Number of Receivers | 2 |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Data Rate | 250 kbit/s |
| Logic Input Compatibility | 5 V logic |
| Typical Supply Current | 300 uA |
| External Capacitor Value | 0.1 uF |
| ESD Protection | +/-15 kV terminal-to-terminal |
| Interface Standard | TIA/EIA-232-F and ITU V.28 |
| Package | 16-SSOP, 5.30 mm width |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
| Technology | RS-232 CMOS interface |
| Operating Temperature | 0 C to +70 C |
MAX3232CDB 16-ssop, 5.30 mm width Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for MAX3232CDB (16-ssop, 5.30 mm width package). Pin numbering, functions, and connection diagrams are defined in the manufacturer datasheet. Refer to it for the exact footprint and soldering guidelines.
No detailed pinout data available for MAX3232CDB.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
MAX3232CDB is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial RS-232 Data Acquisition, Point-of-Sale Terminal Interface, Test and Measurement Console, Embedded Serial Adapter, Communication Controller Bridge, Security and Access-Control Peripheral.
Industrial RS-232 Data Acquisition
The MAX3232CDB fits legacy RS-232 data-acquisition equipment because it combines two drivers and two receivers with operation from a 3 V to 5.5 V supply. Place the device between a low-voltage controller and the external DB9 or equivalent connector, using the manufacturer-recommended 0.1 uF capacitors. Its 250 kbit/s capability supports moderate-speed telemetry, while +/-15 kV terminal ESD protection improves robustness at the connector. The listed 0 C to +70 C temperature range may require a wider-rated part for harsh industrial environments.
Recommended
Point-of-Sale Terminal Interface
The MAX3232CDB can connect a POS controller to a legacy RS-232 peripheral when the host logic operates from 3.3 V or 5 V. Its two transmitters and two receivers support a bidirectional console arrangement, while 5 V logic acceptance simplifies interfacing with conventional UART hardware. The 250 kbit/s maximum rate is suitable for configuration exchanges and short command traffic. Use short, properly grounded RS-232 wiring and place the 0.1 uF network capacitors close to the transceiver pins.
Recommended
Test and Measurement Console
The MAX3232CDB is appropriate for a test instrument or service console that must communicate with older RS-232 equipment. A 250 kbit/s interface rate accommodates many instrument-control protocols, and the 300 uA typical supply current supports low-power portable products. The two-channel arrangement allows simultaneous control and status paths where needed. Keep the connector-side routing away from precision analog circuitry, observe the recommended charge-pump layout, and verify that the selected connector supports the required RS-232 signal polarity and grounding.
Recommended
Embedded Serial Adapter
The MAX3232CDB can form the electrical interface section of a compact embedded-to-RS-232 adapter. Its 3 V minimum supply permits use with 3.3 V microcontrollers, while the receivers accept 5 V logic. The 16-SSOP package helps maintain compact board area, and the 250 kbit/s rate covers standard asynchronous serial traffic. Use level-compatible firmware and verify the UART baud-rate tolerance, cable length, and grounding. The MAX3232E family is worth considering for new adapter designs because Texas Instruments describes it as an improved MAX3232 drop-in replacement.
Recommended
Communication Controller Bridge
The MAX3232CDB bridges a modern controller and an RS-232 network when legacy electrical compatibility is mandatory. Its 3 V to 5.5 V operating range supports mixed-voltage logic, and the 2/2 channel arrangement can carry independent control and response signals. The 250 kbit/s operating rate is suitable for asynchronous command protocols but not high-bandwidth video or modern differential buses. Keep RS-232 nets away from switching-node and high-current return paths, and follow the manufacturer capacitor-placement guidance.
Recommended
Security and Access-Control Peripheral
The MAX3232CDB can interface access-control or security equipment that retains an RS-232 service port. The device's +/-15 kV terminal-to-terminal ESD protection is useful because external serial cables are susceptible to electrostatic discharge, while the 3 V to 5.5 V supply range supports embedded controller rails. Use a secure connector and controlled ground reference to reduce surge paths into the enclosure. Verify the system's required temperature range, isolation strategy, and ESD test methodology before deployment.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MAX3232CDB — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MAX3232IPW | MAX3232E |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments | Texas Instruments |
| Package | 16-SSOP | 16-SSOP | 16-SSOP |
| Product Type | RS-232 line driver/receiver transceiver | MAX3232-family RS-232 transceiver | Improved MAX3232 direct drop-in replacement |
Key Differentiators
- Direct same-family replacement path (vs MAX3232E)
- Dual-channel RS-232 coverage (vs MAX3232IPW)
- External connector transient protection (vs MAX3232IPW)
Design Notes
Place all 0.1 uF charge-pump and driver capacitors as close as practical to the pins identified in the manufacturer application circuit. Keep each capacitor connection short and use the lowest practical loop area to reduce switching transients on the RS-232 outputs. Do not substitute capacitor values or relocate the charge-pump network without checking the datasheet circuit because the internal voltage-conversion network is designed for the specified capacitance.
Route the RS-232 connector-side nets away from clocks, ADC inputs, switching regulators, and high-current return paths. Connect signal and chassis grounds according to the system grounding strategy rather than joining them arbitrarily; improper grounding can defeat the benefit of the +/-15 kV terminal ESD protection. Keep the MAX3232 close to the connector when cable transient exposure is high, while following the manufacturer layout for the IC-side capacitor network.
Do not treat the MAX3232CDB as a TTL serial device or as a drop-in replacement for RS-485. Its drivers generate RS-232 bipolar levels, and the external charge-pump capacitors are mandatory. Also verify the exact 16-SSOP footprint and suffix before ordering a related MAX3232 part. The target's listed commercial temperature range is 0 C to +70 C, so it is not automatically suitable for uncased industrial or automotive environments.
Compliance Information
The verified product information identifies the package as lead-free SSOP-16, but no explicit RoHS, REACH, halogen-free, conflict-minerals, or AEC-Q100 declaration was found for the target. The 30-page datasheet title and file-size entry come from the cited datasheet listing and are not treated as additional electrical specifications.
