SP3232EBCY-L/TR - 250kbps RS-232 Transceiver | MaxLinear
MPN: SP3232EBCY-L/TR ✓ ActiveSP3232EBCY-L/TR Overview
An RS-232 transceiver is an interface IC that converts between logic-level signals and RS-232 differential voltage levels. It belongs to the serial-interface hierarchy, combining a line driver, line receiver, and charge-pump voltage converter. The SP3232EB family targets portable and handheld equipment where true RS-232 performance is required from a compact 3.3 V or 5 V supply rather than a conventional ±12 V source.
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR supports data rates up to 250 kbps and a 3 V to 5.5 V supply range. Its high-efficiency charge-pump supply requires only 0.1 µF capacitors during 3.3 V operation, reducing external capacitor count compared with conventional RS-232 implementations. The manufacturer cross-reference identifies the SP3232EB family as providing 15 kV ESD protection.
Two interface directions are available through the transceiver arrangement. The driver converts TTL or CMOS logic levels into RS-232 levels, while the receiver converts incoming RS-232 signals back into logic-compatible levels. This makes the device suitable for data links between portable computers, embedded controllers, industrial equipment, and other systems using the RS-232 standard.
Typical applications include portable serial adapters, point-of-sale terminals, diagnostic interfaces, industrial control equipment, and embedded serial links. The 16-TSSOP package supports compact surface-mount construction, while the single-supply architecture simplifies system power design. The 250 kbps rating provides useful margin for common asynchronous serial links operating well below the device’s maximum signaling rate.
When laying out the circuit, use the charge-pump capacitor values specified by the manufacturer and place them close to their associated pins. Keep the RS-232 driver and receiver traces away from sensitive analog or high-speed digital paths, and provide the connector interface with appropriate surge and ESD protection.
This page combines the SP3232EB family electrical characteristics, package information, manufacturer cross-reference data, and practical guidance for selecting a pin-compatible RS-232 replacement or planning a compact single-supply serial interface.
Drop-in alternatives for SP3232EBCY-L/TR — 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 SP3232EBCY-L/TR (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Maximum Data Rate, Product Type, Operating Temperature, Mounting Type.
SP3232EEY-L/TR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →SP3232EEN-L/TR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →SP3232ECY-L/TR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →SP3232ECA-L/TR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →TRS232EIPWR
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
SP3232EBCY-L/TR Specifications
| Product Type | 2/2 RS-232 transceiver |
| Transceiver Configuration | 2 transmitter and 2 receiver channels |
| Interface Standard | Full RS-232 |
| Maximum Data Rate | 250 kbps |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3 V to 5.5 V |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to +70°C |
| Charge-Pump Capacitor | 0.1 µF in 3.3 V operation |
| ESD Protection | 15 kV |
| Package | 16-pin TSSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
SP3232EBCY-L/TR 16-pin tssop Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for SP3232EBCY-L/TR (16-pin tssop 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 SP3232EBCY-L/TR.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
SP3232EBCY-L/TR is suitable for 6 applications: Portable RS-232 Serial Adapter, Point-of-Sale Terminal Interface, Industrial Serial Diagnostic Port, Embedded Controller RS-232 Link, Instrumentation Serial Connection, RS-232 Test Equipment.
Portable RS-232 Serial Adapter
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR fits portable serial adapters because it operates from 3 V to 5.5 V and supports rates up to 250 kbps without a separate ±12 V supply. Its integrated charge pump requires only 0.1 µF capacitors in 3.3 V operation, reducing board area compared with a conventional discrete RS-232 interface. The 16-pin TSSOP package is suitable for compact surface-mount adapters, while the 0°C to +70°C range targets commercial equipment. Place the charge-pump capacitors close to their pins and maintain the manufacturer’s recommended connector protection to preserve reliable operation in portable environments.
Recommended
Point-of-Sale Terminal Interface
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR can provide the RS-232 link between a point-of-sale terminal and a host computer. Its 2/2 transceiver arrangement supports multiple interface functions, while the 250 kbps maximum rate exceeds the throughput needed by many peripheral protocols. Operating from 3 V to 5.5 V allows integration with either 3.3 V or 5 V embedded logic. The 16-pin TSSOP footprint keeps the interface compact, and the charge-pump architecture avoids a separate high-voltage supply. Shielding, grounding, and connector protection remain important when the cable exits the enclosure.
Recommended
Industrial Serial Diagnostic Port
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR is suitable for diagnostic and configuration ports in industrial equipment because it combines a full RS-232 interface with a 3 V to 5.5 V supply range. The 250 kbps capability provides substantial margin for common asynchronous serial protocols, while 15 kV ESD protection helps improve interface robustness. Its 0°C to +70°C commercial range is appropriate for controlled indoor industrial environments. Use a protected connector and route the RS-232 traces away from switching power nodes. The low-voltage charge-pump design also simplifies power architecture compared with a ±12 V RS-232 implementation.
Recommended
Embedded Controller RS-232 Link
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR can connect an embedded controller’s UART signals to an RS-232 port using a 3.3 V or 5 V system supply. Its 250 kbps maximum data rate is substantially above typical UART operating speeds, and the integrated charge pump needs only 0.1 µF capacitors in 3.3 V operation. This supports a compact implementation in 16-pin TSSOP. Confirm logic-level compatibility, driver slew behavior, and receiver thresholds in the manufacturer datasheet. In a mixed-signal design, isolate the RS-232 route from sensitive sensors and high-speed digital clocks.
Recommended
Instrumentation Serial Connection
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR can serve as the RS-232 interface in test and measurement instruments that exchange commands or results with a host computer. The 250 kbps rating provides more bandwidth than required by many legacy serial instruments, while operation from 3 V to 5.5 V supports mixed-voltage internal designs. The 16-pin TSSOP package allows compact placement, and the integrated charge pump avoids a separate high-voltage rail. Use controlled grounding and a connector-side protection network for long cables. Confirm the instrument’s logic levels and handshake requirements before committing the interface to the board.
Recommended
RS-232 Test Equipment
The SP3232EBCY-L/TR is useful in RS-232 test fixtures and interface boards where a compact, low-voltage endpoint is required. Its full RS-232 2/2 configuration supports driver and receiver functions, and the 250 kbps rate provides flexibility for common asynchronous links. The 3 V to 5.5 V operating range simplifies integration with modern test equipment logic. Because cable transients and ground differences can affect a port, add appropriate protection and isolation at the connector boundary. Keep the charge-pump layout compact and follow the datasheet’s component placement guidance.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for SP3232EBCY-L/TR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | SP3232EEY-L/TR | SP3232EEN-L/TR | SP3232ECY-L/TR | SP3232ECA-L/TR | TRS232EIPWR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | MaxLinear, Inc. | MaxLinear, Inc. | MaxLinear, Inc. | MaxLinear, Inc. | MaxLinear, Inc. | Texas Instruments |
| Package | 16-pin TSSOP | 16-pin TSSOP | 16-pin TSSOP | 16-pin TSSOP | 16-pin TSSOP | 16-pin TSSOP |
| Transceiver Configuration | 2/2 full RS-232 | 2/2 full RS-232 | 2/2 full RS-232 | 2/2 full RS-232 | 2/2 full RS-232 | RS-232 transceiver |
| Maximum Data Rate | 250 kbps | 250 kbps | 250 kbps | 250 kbps | 250 kbps | 250 kbps |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3 V to 5.5 V | 3 V to 5.5 V | 3 V to 5.5 V | 3 V to 5.5 V | 3 V to 5.5 V | 3 V to 5.5 V |
Key Differentiators
- Single-supply true RS-232 operation (vs TRS232EIPWR)
- Documented high ESD protection (vs TRS232EIPWR)
- 250 kbps throughput for legacy serial links (vs SP3232EEY-L/TR)
- Same-family sourcing with internal linking (vs SP3232EEN-L/TR)
Design Notes
Place the charge-pump capacitors close to their designated pins and use short, direct return paths as specified by the manufacturer. The SP3232EB family requires only 0.1 µF in 3.3 V operation, but placement still affects charge-pump behavior. Keep the RS-232 traces away from clocks, ADC inputs, switching inductors, and high-current power paths to reduce coupling into sensitive circuitry.
Do not treat every SP3232 suffix as electrically interchangeable without reviewing the pin-description table. Order codes can differ in shutdown, supply, or temperature options even when the package is the same. For a direct substitution, verify the driver and receiver pin mapping, charge-pump capacitor connections, enable pins, logic thresholds, and maximum supply voltage against the specific manufacturer datasheet.
RS-232 is a point-to-point interface, and reliable operation depends on cable length, baud rate, grounding, and connector protection. Keep driver outputs away from receiver inputs on the board where practical, provide a stable ground reference, and avoid long unterminated traces. Add connector-side transient protection for exposed cables while accounting for the device’s documented 15 kV ESD rating.
Decouple the 3 V or 5 V supply near the transceiver and keep the charge-pump loop compact. The integrated charge-pump approach removes the need for a separate ±12 V supply, but the system still needs adequate local bypassing and uninterrupted ground return. Verify startup, supply ramp behavior, and voltage limits using the specific SP3232EBCY-L/TR datasheet before applying power.
Compliance Information
The component listing identifies the SP3232EBCY-L/TR as RoHS compliant. No qualification information establishing AEC-Q100 status, REACH compliance, lead-free status, halogen-free status, or conflict-minerals compliance is stated for this ordering code.