Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated

MAX3218EAP  

Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers

MAX3218EAP Description

The MAX3218EAP from Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated is a full-duplex RS-232 transceiver designed for low-power, compact applications. Housed in a 20-pin SSOP package, it integrates 2 drivers and 2 receivers, supporting data rates up to 120Kbps. Operating from a 1.8V to 4.25V supply, it is optimized for battery-powered and portable devices. The device features 700mV receiver hysteresis for robust noise immunity, making it suitable for electrically noisy environments. Although marked as obsolete, its design remains relevant for legacy systems requiring reliable RS-232 communication with minimal power consumption.

MAX3218EAP Features

• Low-Voltage Operation: Wide supply range (1.8V–4.25V) ideal for portable electronics.
• Enhanced Noise Immunity: 700mV receiver hysteresis ensures stable signal integrity.
• Compact Form Factor: 20-pin SSOP package saves board space in dense layouts.
• Full-Duplex Communication: Simultaneous bidirectional data transfer (2Tx/2Rx).
• Compliance: Meets RS-232 standards while offering REACH unaffected status for environmental safety.
• Low Power Consumption: Optimized for energy-sensitive applications like IoT and handheld devices.

MAX3218EAP Applications

• Industrial Control Systems: Reliable serial communication in PLCs and sensor interfaces.
• Portable Medical Devices: Low-voltage operation suits battery-powered diagnostic tools.
• Consumer Electronics: Legacy peripherals (e.g., barcode scanners, POS terminals).
• Embedded Systems: Space-constrained designs requiring robust RS-232 connectivity.

Conclusion of MAX3218EAP

The MAX3218EAP excels in low-voltage, noise-resistant RS-232 communication, offering a balance of compact size, power efficiency, and reliability. While obsolete, its legacy compatibility and performance metrics make it a pragmatic choice for maintenance or niche designs. Engineers valuing hysteresis-enhanced signal integrity and wide supply flexibility may still leverage this transceiver for specific industrial or portable applications.

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MAX3218EAP Documents

Download datasheets and manufacturer documentation for MAX3218EAP

Datasheets :

MAX3218      

Part Numbering Guide :

Part Numbering System      

Application Notes :

The Evolution of the RS-232 Transceiver      

PCN Obsolescence/ EOL :

Mult Dev OBS 04/Sep/2015      

HTML Datasheet :

MAX3218      

Environmental Information :

Maxim Integrated RoHS Cert       Maxim Integrated REACH