SP3232EET-L - 120 kbps RS-232 Transceiver | MaxLinear
MPN: SP3232EET-L ✗ End of LifeSP3232EET-L Overview
An RS-232 transceiver is an interface IC that converts logic-level digital signals into RS-232 line levels and converts incoming RS-232 signals back into logic-level signals. The SP3232EET-L belongs to the interface IC hierarchy: RS-232 interface IC > line-driver and line-receiver transceiver > communications interface semiconductor. Its integrated charge-pump power supply supports true RS-232 operation from a single low-voltage supply while reducing the external capacitor count.
The device operates from a +3.0 V to +5.5 V supply and supports data rates up to 120 kbps under full load. The manufacturer datasheet identifies the SP3222E/SP3232E family as suitable for portable or hand-held applications and states that the high-efficiency charge-pump supply requires only 0.1 uF capacitors in 3.3 V operation. Its 1 mA supply-current specification supports low-power interface designs, while the -40 C to +85 C operating-temperature range supports industrial and commercial equipment.
The SP3232EET-L contains two RS-232 drivers and two RS-232 receivers in a 16-SOIC package. It is appropriate for systems that require bidirectional serial communication, including point-to-point links, service consoles, industrial controllers, data-acquisition equipment, and portable peripheral connections. The -L ordering suffix identifies the leaded package variant identified in the verified distributor records.
A key design consideration is the charge-pump capacitor network. The datasheet states that the SP3232E series requires only 0.1 uF capacitors for 3.3 V operation. These capacitors should be placed close to the charge-pump pins, with short and symmetric routing helping reduce switching disturbance and ensuring stable operation.
This product page consolidates the verified distributor specifications, manufacturer datasheet information, package details, pricing references, and available drop-in alternatives. It is intended to help engineers identify whether the SP3232EET-L fits a low-voltage, moderate-speed RS-232 interface before committing to a PCB layout.
Drop-in alternatives for SP3232EET-L — 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 SP3232EET-L (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Data Rate, Operating Temperature, Package, Packaging, Product Type.
SP232ECT-L
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →SP485ECN-L
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs UnverifiedContact for price
View Datasheet →SP3232EET-L Specifications
| Product Type | RS-232 transceiver |
| Transceiver Configuration | 2 transmit / 2 receive channels |
| Supply Voltage Range | +3.0 V to +5.5 V |
| Data Rate | 120 kbps |
| Supply Current | 1 mA |
| Operating Temperature | -40 C to +85 C |
| Package | 16-SOIC |
| Interface Standard | RS-232 / EIA/TIA-232-F |
| Charge-Pump Capacitor Requirement | 0.1 uF in 3.3 V operation |
| Shutdown Supply Current | 1 uA with receivers active |
| Number of Drivers | 2 |
| Number of Receivers | 2 |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
SP3232EET-L 16-soic Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for SP3232EET-L (16-soic 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 SP3232EET-L.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
SP3232EET-L is suitable for 6 applications: Portable Computer Serial Interface, Industrial Controller Console, Point-to-Point Data Acquisition, Serial Peripheral Connection, Network Equipment Status Port, Instrumentation and Test Equipment.
Portable Computer Serial Interface
The SP3232EET-L fits portable-computer and hand-held serial interfaces because it operates from +3.0 V to +5.5 V and supports RS-232 data rates up to 120 kbps. Its two transmit and two receive channels can connect a controller to two serial peripherals or provide two communication channels. The integrated charge-pump supply requires 0.1 uF capacitors in 3.3 V operation, reducing external support components compared with older discrete charge-pump approaches. The 16-SOIC package also supports compact, surface-mount PCB layouts. Designers should place the charge-pump capacitors close to their pins and confirm that the selected connector and cable satisfy the RS-232 voltage requirements.
Recommended
Industrial Controller Console
The SP3232EET-L is appropriate for an industrial controller console requiring a low-voltage, moderate-speed serial link. Its verified -40 C to +85 C temperature range covers many industrial and commercial installations, while the 120 kbps data rate is sufficient for command, status, and configuration traffic. Two transmitters and two receivers provide flexible point-to-point or multi-port wiring options. The +3.0 V to +5.5 V operating range allows integration with both 3.3 V control electronics and 5 V peripherals. The main design trade-off is that it is not listed as automotive-qualified, so it should not be selected for vehicle applications without separate qualification evidence.
Recommended
Point-to-Point Data Acquisition
The SP3232EET-L can bridge a data-acquisition controller to a legacy RS-232 instrument when the required transfer rate does not exceed 120 kbps. Two receivers allow two incoming measurement or status lines, and two drivers can return commands or acknowledgements. Its 1 mA supply-current specification is favorable for compact embedded systems, while the integrated charge pump simplifies single-supply implementation. Care must be taken with grounding because RS-232 is a single-ended, unbalanced interface and cable noise can affect reliability. Use a suitable protection network for exposed connectors and follow the manufacturer charge-pump capacitor placement guidance to preserve stable operation.
Recommended
Serial Peripheral Connection
The SP3232EET-L supports legacy serial peripheral connections where a modern 3.3 V or 5 V controller must communicate through an RS-232 port. Its 120 kbps maximum rate accommodates many configuration, control, and firmware-update workflows, while the 2/2 transceiver arrangement provides multiple channel options. The 16-SOIC package keeps the implementation compact and compatible with automated surface-mount assembly. The supply voltage does not include the negative voltage required by the RS-232 line levels, because the charge-pump circuitry generates the required bipolar line voltages internally. Validate the logic levels, baud rate, connector protection, and cable length at the system level.
Recommended
Network Equipment Status Port
The SP3232EET-L can be used for a service or status port in networking equipment that retains an RS-232 diagnostic interface. The 120 kbps rate is more than adequate for configuration output, boot messages, and control commands, while +3.0 V to +5.5 V operation accommodates common equipment supply rails. Its two transmit and two receive channels allow independent command and status links when required. The 1 mA supply-current rating reduces the power burden of leaving the interface active in equipment with limited standby budgets. For external equipment-room connections, add appropriate surge and ESD protection because the verified product information does not specify a system-level protection rating.
Recommended
Instrumentation and Test Equipment
The SP3232EET-L fits instrumentation requiring a legacy RS-232 control and response channel. At up to 120 kbps, it can carry command sequences and measurement status without the higher speed of modern differential buses. The +3.0 V to +5.5 V supply range makes it suitable for mixed-voltage instruments, and its -40 C to +85 C rating supports many laboratory and industrial environments. The 16-SOIC package allows the interface to be placed close to the equipment connector or logic section. Designers should provide a clean supply, observe charge-pump capacitor placement, and use shielded cables or grounded references where long exposed cables could introduce noise or ground-potential errors.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for SP3232EET-L — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | SP232ECT-L | SP485ECN-L |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 16-SOIC | 16-SOIC | 16-SOIC |
| Brand | MaxLinear | MaxLinear | MaxLinear |
| Product Type | RS-232 transceiver | RS-232 transceiver | RS-485 transceiver |
Key Differentiators
- Verified low-voltage RS-232 operation (vs SP232ECT-L)
- Documented two-transmitter, two-receiver configuration (vs SP485ECN-L)
- Low-power single-supply implementation (vs SP232ECT-L)
Design Notes
Place the charge-pump capacitors as close as practical to the associated SP3232EET-L pins, following the manufacturer SP3222E/SP3232E datasheet layout. The verified manufacturer description states that only 0.1 uF capacitors are required in 3.3 V operation. Keep these connections short and symmetric, provide a low-impedance ground return, and avoid routing charge-pump connections through areas susceptible to coupling from high-current switching nodes.
Do not substitute an RS-485 interface merely because it uses a 16-SOIC outline. SP3232EET-L is an RS-232 2/2 transceiver with a verified 120 kbps rating and +3.0 V to +5.5 V supply, whereas SP485ECN-L is identified as an RS-485 transceiver. Before replacing any candidate, compare driver outputs, receiver inputs, enable or shutdown functions, supply pins, ground pins, and every exposed package pin against the manufacturer pin tables.
Keep the RS-232 connector interface and transceiver as close together as practical to minimize exposed high-voltage trace area. Provide a continuous ground reference and use appropriately rated protection components at external connectors. The verified evidence establishes the IC operating specifications but does not specify connector-level ESD, surge, or isolation performance, so those protections must be designed separately for the target installation.
The verified SP3232EET-L supply-current specification is 1 mA, with a 1 uA low-power shutdown condition listed for the applicable family specification. Confirm the exact mode being used because driver state, receiver activity, and supply voltage affect the final system consumption. Provide local supply bypassing and avoid excessive ground impedance between the IC, charge-pump capacitors, and connector return path.
Compliance Information
The supplied verified excerpts do not provide verified RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, conflict-minerals, or automotive-qualification statements. AEC-Q100 is treated as not applicable because no automotive qualification is claimed in the verified data.