ST3232EBDR - 3.3V RS-232 Transceiver, 15kV ESD | STMicroelectronics
MPN: ST3232EBDR ✓ Active| Qty | Unit Price | Extended |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $1.25 | $1.25 |
| 10 | $1.1 | $11.00 |
| 100 | $0.95 | $95.00 |
| 500 | $0.85 | $425.00 |
| 1,000 | $0.75 | $750.00 |
ST3232EBDR Overview
RS-232 transceivers are essential components in serial communication systems, converting logic-level signals to RS-232 voltage levels and vice versa. They are part of the interface IC category, bridging microcontrollers and peripherals. The ST3232EBDR operates from a single 3.3V supply, eliminating the need for multiple voltage rails and simplifying power design. Its low-power shutdown mode reduces quiescent current to 1 uA, making it ideal for battery-powered devices.
Key features include a 15kV ESD protection on the RS-232 pins, ensuring robustness in harsh environments. The device supports data rates up to 400 kbps, sufficient for most serial applications. It includes an internal charge pump that generates the required ±5.5V RS-232 voltage levels from a single 3.3V supply, eliminating the need for external dual supplies. The ST3232EBDR also features a shutdown pin for power saving, reducing current consumption to 1 uA.
Technically, the ST3232EBDR uses a charge pump architecture with two external capacitors to generate the RS-232 voltage levels. The device is designed to meet EIA/TIA-232E and ITU-T V.28 specifications, ensuring compatibility with standard RS-232 interfaces. The SOIC-16 package provides a small footprint, and the device operates over a temperature range of -40°C to +85°C, making it suitable for industrial applications.
Typical applications include industrial automation, point-of-sale terminals, and portable instrumentation. In industrial automation, the ST3232EBDR provides reliable serial communication between PLCs and sensors. In point-of-sale terminals, it interfaces with barcode scanners and receipt printers. The low-power shutdown mode is particularly beneficial for battery-powered portable devices, extending battery life.
When designing with the ST3232EBDR, ensure proper decoupling with a 0.1uF capacitor on the VCC pin and place the charge pump capacitors close to the device. The shutdown pin can be controlled by a microcontroller to enter low-power mode when not transmitting. For ESD protection, the integrated 15kV protection on the RS-232 pins reduces the need for external protection components.
Drop-in alternatives for ST3232EBDR — 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 ST3232EBDR (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Charge Pump Capacitors, Data Rate, Package, RoHS Status, ESD Protection.
Quick Comparison Tool — Select alternative parts for side-by-side comparison:
ST3232CDR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ST3232BDR
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified✓ In Stock
$0.75 / Unit
View Datasheet →MAX3232EUE+
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
SP3232EEY
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ADM3232EARZ
✅ Drop-In ⚠️ Specs Unverified📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
ST3232EBDR Specifications
| Number of Drivers | 2 |
| Number of Receivers | 2 |
| Supply Voltage | 3.0 V to 5.5 V |
| Data Rate | 400 kbps |
| ESD Protection | 15 kV (HBM) |
| Shutdown Current | 1 uA |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C |
| Package | SOIC-16 |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount |
| Charge Pump Capacitors | 4 x 0.1 uF |
| RS-232 Output Voltage Swing | ±5.5 V |
| Receiver Input Voltage Range | -30 V to +30 V |
| Supply Current (Operating) | 0.3 mA (typ) |
| RoHS Status | Compliant |
| MSL Level | 1 |
ST3232EBDR Pin Configuration
| Pin 1 | C1+ — Charge pump capacitor positive terminal |
| Pin 2 | V+ — Positive charge pump output |
| Pin 3 | C1- — Charge pump capacitor negative terminal |
| Pin 4 | C2+ — Charge pump capacitor positive terminal |
| Pin 5 | C2- — Charge pump capacitor negative terminal |
| Pin 6 | V- — Negative charge pump output |
| Pin 7 | T2OUT — Transmitter 2 output |
| Pin 8 | R2IN — Receiver 2 input |
| Pin 9 | R2OUT — Receiver 2 output |
| Pin 10 | T2IN — Transmitter 2 input |
| Pin 11 | T1IN — Transmitter 1 input |
| Pin 12 | R1OUT — Receiver 1 output |
| Pin 13 | R1IN — Receiver 1 input |
| Pin 14 | T1OUT — Transmitter 1 output |
| Pin 15 | GND — Ground |
| Pin 16 | VCC — Power supply (3.0V to 5.5V) |
Typical Applications
ST3232EBDR is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Automation, Point-of-Sale Terminals, Portable Instrumentation, Networking Equipment, Medical Devices, Consumer Electronics.
Industrial Automation
The ST3232EBDR provides reliable RS-232 communication between PLCs, sensors, and industrial controllers. Its 15kV ESD protection ensures robustness in factory environments with electrical noise. The wide operating temperature range of -40°C to +85°C allows operation in harsh conditions. The device's low shutdown current of 1 uA is beneficial for energy-efficient systems. In a typical setup, the ST3232EBDR is placed between a microcontroller's UART and an RS-232 connector, with charge pump capacitors (0.1 uF) on pins 1-4 and 6. The shutdown pin can be tied to a GPIO for power management. Compared to optocouplers, the ST3232EBDR offers a simpler, lower-cost solution for serial communication over short distances.
Recommended
Point-of-Sale Terminals
The ST3232EBDR is used in POS terminals to interface with barcode scanners, receipt printers, and customer displays. Its 400 kbps data rate supports high-speed transactions, and the 3.3V operation is compatible with modern POS processors. The integrated charge pump eliminates the need for a negative supply rail, simplifying the power design. In a POS system, the ST3232EBDR connects the main processor's UART to the RS-232 ports for peripherals. The shutdown mode can be used to save power when the terminal is idle. The device's small SOIC-16 package fits well on compact POS motherboards. Compared to USB interfaces, RS-232 remains a cost-effective choice for legacy peripherals.
Recommended
Portable Instrumentation
The ST3232EBDR is ideal for battery-powered portable instruments such as multimeters and data loggers. Its low shutdown current of 1 uA extends battery life, and the 3.3V supply matches common battery voltages. The device's ESD protection ensures reliability in field use. In a portable instrument, the ST3232EBDR provides a serial interface for data download to a PC. The shutdown pin can be controlled by the microcontroller to enter low-power mode when not in use. The charge pump capacitors are small and require minimal PCB area. Compared to USB, RS-232 is simpler for point-to-point communication and does not require protocol negotiation.
Recommended
Networking Equipment
The ST3232EBDR is used in networking equipment such as routers and switches for console ports and management interfaces. Its 400 kbps data rate is sufficient for console communication, and the 3.3V operation is compatible with networking SoCs. The device's ESD protection is crucial for ports that may be exposed to static discharge. In a router, the ST3232EBDR connects the SoC's UART to an RJ-45 console port. The shutdown pin can be used to disable the interface when not needed. The SOIC-16 package is suitable for high-density PCBs. Compared to Ethernet, RS-232 provides a simple, low-cost management interface.
Recommended
Medical Devices
The ST3232EBDR is used in medical devices such as patient monitors and diagnostic equipment for serial communication. Its reliability and ESD protection are essential in medical environments. The wide temperature range and low power consumption make it suitable for portable medical devices. In a patient monitor, the ST3232EBDR transmits vital signs data to a central station via RS-232. The shutdown mode helps conserve battery power in portable monitors. The device's small footprint is advantageous for compact medical devices. Compared to wireless interfaces, RS-232 offers a secure, interference-free connection.
Recommended
Consumer Electronics
The ST3232EBDR is used in consumer electronics such as set-top boxes and gaming consoles for serial debugging and peripheral interfaces. Its low cost and small package make it ideal for high-volume production. The 3.3V operation is compatible with consumer SoCs. In a set-top box, the ST3232EBDR provides a debug UART for firmware development. The shutdown pin can be used to save power in standby mode. The device's ESD protection ensures reliability in consumer environments. Compared to USB, RS-232 is simpler and does not require licensing fees.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for ST3232EBDR — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | ST3232CDR | MAX3232EUE+ | SP3232EEY | ADM3232EARZ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | SOIC-16 | SOIC-16 | SOIC-16 | SOIC-16 | SOIC-16 |
| Brand | STMicroelectronics | STMicroelectronics | Maxim Integrated | MaxLinear | Analog Devices |
| Supply Voltage Range | 3.0V to 5.5V | 3.0V to 5.5V | 3.0V to 5.5V | 3.0V to 5.5V | 3.0V to 5.5V |
| Data Rate | 400 kbps | 400 kbps | 250 kbps | 250 kbps | 460 kbps |
| ESD Protection | 15 kV | 2 kV | 15 kV | 15 kV | 15 kV |
| Shutdown Current | 1 uA | 1 uA | 1 uA | 1 uA | 1 uA |
| Operating Temperature | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C | -40C to +85C |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | 2/2 | 2/2 | 2/2 | 2/2 | 2/2 |
Key Differentiators
- Higher data rate of 400 kbps (vs MAX3232EUE+)
- 15kV ESD protection (vs ST3232CDR)
- Wide supply voltage range (vs ADM3232EARZ)
Design Notes
Place the charge pump capacitors (C1, C2) as close to the ST3232EBDR as possible to minimize parasitic inductance and ensure stable voltage generation. Use 0.1 uF ceramic capacitors with low ESR. Also place a 0.1 uF decoupling capacitor on the VCC pin. Keep the RS-232 lines away from high-speed digital traces to reduce crosstalk.
The ST3232EBDR operates from a 3.0V to 5.5V supply. Ensure the supply is clean and well-regulated. The charge pump generates ±5.5V internally, so no external negative supply is needed. The shutdown pin can be used to reduce current consumption to 1 uA when the transceiver is idle, which is beneficial for battery-powered designs.
Do not exceed the absolute maximum ratings, including supply voltage and input voltages on the RS-232 pins. The receiver inputs can handle up to ±30V, but the transmitter outputs should not be shorted to ground for extended periods. Ensure the shutdown pin is properly driven to avoid unintended shutdown. Also, verify that the data rate does not exceed 400 kbps to maintain signal integrity.
Compliance Information
RoHS compliant per STMicroelectronics product page. Not AEC-Q100 qualified. Halogen-free status not specified in available data.
