ICL3232 250kbps RS-232 Transmitters/Receivers

The Intersil ICL32XX devices are powered by 3.0V to 5.5V and function as RS-232 transmitters and receivers, complying with EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications, even at a supply voltage of 3.0V. These devices are designed for applications such as PDAs, palmtops, and notebook and laptop computers, where low operational and standby power consumption is essential. They incorporate efficient on-chip charge pumps, along with both manual and automatic power-down functions (with the exception of the ICL3232), which reduce standby supply current to a mere 1 µA trickle. The small footprint packaging and the use of low-value capacitors contribute to significant board space savings. The devices guarantee data rates exceeding 250 kbps under worst-case load conditions. Compatibility is ensured with 3.3V-only systems, mixed 3.3V and 5.0V systems, and 5.0V-only systems. The ICL324X series consists of 3-driver, 5-receiver devices that provide a complete serial port suitable for laptops or notebooks. Additionally, both devices feature non-inverting always-active receivers for "wake-up" capability. The ICL3221, ICL3223, and ICL3243 models include an automatic power-down function that deactivates the on-chip power supply and driver circuits when an attached peripheral device is turned off or when the RS-232 cable is disconnected, thus conserving system power without requiring changes to hardware or operating systems. These devices automatically power back on when a valid RS-232 voltage is detected at any receiver input. Table 1 summarizes the features of the devices represented in this data sheet, while Application Note AN9863 details the features of each device within the ICL32XX 3V family.

The ICL32XX series of devices is engineered to facilitate reliable serial communication in battery-operated devices, ensuring minimal power usage while maintaining high performance. The integrated charge pump allows for the generation of necessary voltage levels for RS-232 signaling from lower supply voltages, which is crucial for modern mobile electronics. The automatic power-down feature is particularly advantageous as it enhances the overall energy efficiency of the system, allowing for prolonged battery life without compromising functionality.

In practical applications, the ICL32XX devices can be integrated into the communication interfaces of portable devices, supporting standard serial communication protocols. The devices are designed to handle various loads and can operate effectively under diverse environmental conditions, making them suitable for a wide range of consumer electronics. The incorporation of wake-up capabilities ensures that the devices can quickly resume operation in response to user interactions or peripheral activities, thus improving user experience.

The small size of the components and the low capacitance requirements facilitate compact circuit designs, allowing for more efficient use of PCB space. This is particularly important in the design of modern laptops and handheld devices, where space is at a premium. The compatibility across different voltage systems simplifies the design process, enabling engineers to create versatile products that can operate in various environments without the need for extensive modifications.

Overall, the ICL32XX family of devices represents a robust solution for developers seeking to implement reliable, low-power RS-232 communication in their electronic designs. Their combination of advanced features, small form factor, and power efficiency makes them an ideal choice for a wide range of applications in the growing market of portable electronics.The Intersil ICL32XX devices are 3. 0V to 5. 5V powered RS-232 transmitters/receivers which meet ElA/TIA-232 and V. 28/V. 24 specifications, even at VCC = 3. 0V. Targeted applications are PDAs, Palmtops, and notebook and laptop computers where the low operational, and even lower standby, power consumption is critical. Efficient on-chip charge pumps, co upled with manual and automatic powerdown functions (except for the ICL3232), reduce the standby supply current to a 1 µA trickle. Small footprint packaging, and the use of small, low value capacitors ensure board space savings as well.

Data rates greater than 250kbps are guaranteed at worst case load conditions. This family is fully compatible with 3. 3V only systems, mixed 3. 3V and 5. 0V systems, and 5. 0V only systems. The ICL324X are 3-driver, 5-receiver devices that provide a complete serial port suitable for laptop or notebook computers. Both devices also include noninverting alwaysactive receivers for "wake-up" capability. The ICL3221, ICL3223 and ICL3243, feature an automatic powerdown function which powers down the on-chip power-supply and driver circuits.

This occurs when an attached peripheral device is shut off or the RS-232 cable is removed, conserving system power automatically without changes to the hardware or operating system. These devices power up again when a valid RS-232 voltage is applied to any receiver input. Table 1 summarizes the features of the devices represented by this data sheet, while Application Note AN9863 summarizes the features of each device comprising the ICL32XX 3V family.

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