MAX3222/MAX3232/
MAX3237/MAX3241*
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
EVALUATION KIT AVAILABLE
For pricing, delivery, and ordering information, please contact Maxim Direct at
1-888-629-4642, or visit Maxim Integrated’s website at www.maximintegrated.com.
19-0273; Rev 7; 1/07
________________General Description
The MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241 trans-
ceivers have a proprietary low-dropout transmitter out-
put stage enabling true RS-232 performance from a
3.0V to 5.5V supply with a dual charge pump. The
devices require only four small 0.1µF external charge-
pump capacitors. The MAX3222, MAX3232, and
MAX3241 are guaranteed to run at data rates of
120kbps while maintaining RS-232 output levels. The
MAX3237 is guaranteed to run at data rates of 250kbps
in the normal operating mode and 1Mbps in the
MegaBaud™ operating mode, while maintaining RS-232
output levels.
The MAX3222/MAX3232 have 2 receivers and 2
drivers. The MAX3222 features a 1µA shutdown mode
that reduces power consumption and extends battery
life in portable systems. Its receivers remain active in
shutdown mode, allowing external devices such as
modems to be monitored using only 1µA supply cur-
rent. The MAX3222 and MAX3232 are pin, package,
and functionally compatible with the industry-standard
MAX242 and MAX232, respectively.
The MAX3241 is a complete serial port (3 drivers/
5 receivers) designed for notebook and subnotebook
computers. The MAX3237 (5 drivers/3 receivers) is ideal
for fast modem applications. Both these devices feature
a shutdown mode in which all receivers can remain
active while using only 1µA supply current. Receivers R1
(MAX3237/MAX3241) and R2 (MAX3241) have extra out-
puts in addition to their standard outputs. These extra
outputs are always active, allowing external devices
such as a modem to be monitored without forward bias-
ing the protection diodes in circuitry that may have VCC
completely removed.
The MAX3222, MAX3232, and MAX3241 are available
in space-saving TSSOP and SSOP packages.
________________________Applications
Notebook, Subnotebook, and Palmtop Computers
High-Speed Modems
Battery-Powered Equipment
Hand-Held Equipment
Peripherals
Printers
__Next Generation Device Features
oFor Smaller Packaging:
MAX3228E/MAX3229E: +2.5V to +5.5V RS-232
Transceivers in UCSP™
oFor Integrated ESD Protection:
MAX3222E/MAX3232E/MAX3237E/MAX3241E*/
MAX3246E: ±15kV ESD-Protected, Down to 10nA,
3.0V to 5.5V, Up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers
oFor Low-Voltage or Data Cable Applications:
MAX3380E/MAX3381E: +2.35V to +5.5V, 1µA,
2Tx/2Rx RS-232 Transceivers with ±15kV
ESD-Protected I/O and Logic Pins
18
17
16
15
14
13
12
11
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
SHDN
VCC
GND
T1OUT
C1-
V+
C1+
EN
TOP VIEW
R1IN
R1OUT
T1IN
T2IN
T2OUT
V-
C2-
C2+
10
9R2OUTR2IN
DIP/SO
MAX3222
+
_________________Pin Configurations
_______________Ordering Information
MegaBaud and UCSP are trademarks of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
*Covered by U.S. Patent numbers 4,636,930; 4,679,134; 4,777,577; 4,797,899; 4,809,152; 4,897,774; 4,999,761; and other patents pending.
Typical Operating Circuits appear at end of data sheet. Pin Configurations continued at end of data sheet.
Ordering Information continued at end of data sheet.
+
Denotes lead-free package.
PART TEMP RANGE PIN-PACKAGE PKG
CODE
MAX3222CUP+ 0°C to +70°C 20 TSSOP U20+2
MAX3222CAP+ 0°C to +70°C 20 SSOP A20+1
MAX3222CWN+ 0°C to +70°C 18 SO W18+1
MAX3222CPN+ 0°C to +70°C 18 Plastic Dip P18+5
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
2 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
VCC = 5.0V
ABSOLUTE MAXIMUM RATINGS
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS
(VCC = +3.0V to +5.5V, C1–C4 = 0.1µF (Note 2), TA= TMIN to TMAX, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA= +25°C.)
Stresses beyond those listed under “Absolute Maximum Ratings” may cause permanent damage to the device. These are stress ratings only, and functional
operation of the device at these or any other conditions beyond those indicated in the operational sections of the specifications is not implied. Exposure to
absolute maximum rating conditions for extended periods may affect device reliability.
Note 1: V+ and V- can have a maximum magnitude of 7V, but their absolute difference cannot exceed 13V.
VCC ...........................................................................-0.3V to +6V
V+ (Note 1) ...............................................................-0.3V to +7V
V- (Note 1) ................................................................+0.3V to -7V
V+ + V- (Note 1)...................................................................+13V
Input Voltages
T_IN, SHDN, EN ...................................................-0.3V to +6V
MBAUD...................................................-0.3V to (VCC + 0.3V)
R_IN .................................................................................±25V
Output Voltages
T_OUT...........................................................................±13.2V
R_OUT....................................................-0.3V to (VCC + 0.3V)
Short-Circuit Duration
T_OUT ....................................................................Continuous
Continuous Power Dissipation (TA= +70°C)
16-Pin TSSOP (derate 6.7mW/°C above +70°C).............533mW
16-Pin Narrow SO (derate 8.70mW/°C above +70°C) ....696mW
16-Pin Wide SO (derate 9.52mW/°C above +70°C)........762mW
16-Pin Plastic DIP (derate 10.53mW/°C above +70°C)...842mW
18-Pin SO (derate 9.52mW/°C above +70°C)..............762mW
18-Pin Plastic DIP (derate 11.11mW/°C above +70°C) ..889mW
20-Pin SSOP (derate 7.00mW/°C above +70°C) .........559mW
20-Pin TSSOP (derate 8.0mW/°C above +70°C).............640mW
28-Pin TSSOP (derate 8.7mW/°C above +70°C).............696mW
28-Pin SSOP (derate 9.52mW/°C above +70°C) .........762mW
28-Pin SO (derate 12.50mW/°C above +70°C) .....................1W
Operating Temperature Ranges
MAX32_ _C_ _.....................................................0°C to +70°C
MAX32_ _E_ _ .................................................-40°C to +85°C
Storage Temperature Range .............................-65°C to +150°C
Lead Temperature (soldering, 10s) .................................+300°C
IOUT = -1.0mA
IOUT = 1.6mA
Receivers disabled
T_IN, EN, SHDN, MBAUD
T_IN, EN, SHDN, MBAUD
CONDITIONS
V
0.8 1.5
Input Threshold Low 0.6 1.2
V-25 25Input Voltage Range
0.5 2.0
VCC Power-Supply Current
VVCC - 0.6 VCC - 0.1Output Voltage High
V0.4Output Voltage Low
µA±0.05 ±10Output Leakage Current
µA±0.01 ±1.0Input Leakage Current
V0.8
Input Logic Threshold Low
(Note 3)
UNITS
MIN TYP MAX
PARAMETER
TA= +25°C
TA= +25°C V
1.8 2.4
Input Threshold High 1.5 2.4
VCC = 3.3V
VCC = 5.0V
2.0 V
2.4
Input Logic Threshold High
(Note 3)
No load, VCC = 3.3V or 5.0V,
TA= +25°C mA
0.3 1.0
MAX3222/MAX3232/
MAX3241
MAX3237
SHDN = GND, TA= +25°C µA1.0 10Shutdown Supply Current
VCC = 3.3V
VCC = 5.0V
VCC = 3.3V
VCC = 5.0V
DC CHARACTERISTICS
LOGIC INPUTS AND RECEIVER OUTPUTS
RECEIVER INPUTS
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 3
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
TIMING CHARACTERISTICS—MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3241
(VCC = +3.0V to +5.5V, C1–C4 = 0.1µF (Note 2), TA= TMIN to TMAX, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA= +25°C.)
ELECTRICAL CHARACTERISTICS (continued)
(VCC = +3.0V to +5.5V, C1–C4 = 0.1µF (Note 2), TA= TMIN to TMAX, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA= +25°C.)
T1IN = T2IN = GND, T3IN = VCC,
T3OUT loaded with 3kΩto GND,
T1OUT and T2OUT loaded with 2.5mA each
CONDITIONS
V±5.0Transmitter Output Voltage
V0.3Input Hysteresis
UNITS
MIN TYP MAX
PARAMETER
All transmitter outputs loaded with 3kΩto ground V±5.0 ±5.4Output Voltage Swing
mA±35 ±60Output Short-Circuit Current
VCC = V+ = V- = 0V, VOUT = ±2V Ω300 10MOutput Resistance
VOUT = ±12V, VCC = 0V or 3V to 5.5V, transmitters
disabled µA±25Output Leakage Current
tPHL
RL= 3kΩ, CL= 1000pF, one transmitter switching
tPLH
|tPHL - tPLH |
|tPHL - tPLH |
Normal operation
Normal operation
CONDITIONS
0.3 µs
0.3
Receiver Propagation Delay
kbps120 235Maximum Data Rate
ns300Receiver Skew
ns300Transmitter Skew
ns200Receiver Output Disable Time
ns200Receiver Output Enable Time
UNITS
MIN TYP MAX
PARAMETER
630
VCC = 3.3V, RL= 3kΩto 7kΩ,
+3V to -3V or -3V to +3V,
TA= +25°C, one transmitter
switching
V/µs
430
Transition-Region Slew Rate
R_IN to R_OUT, CL= 150pF
CL= 150pF to
1000pF
CL= 150pF to
2500pF
TA= +25°C kΩ357Input Resistance
MOUSE DRIVEABILITY (MAX3241)
TRANSMITTER OUTPUTS
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
4 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
__________________________________________Typical Operating Characteristics
(VCC = +3.3V, 235kbps data rate, 0.1µF capacitors, all transmitters loaded with 3kΩ, TA= +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
RL= 3kΩ, CL= 1000pF, one transmitter switching,
MBAUD = GND
Normal operation
CONDITIONS
Normal operation ns200Receiver Output Disable Time
|tPHL - tPLH |, MBAUD = GND ns100
0.15
250
µs
0.15
Receiver Propagation Delay
ns200Receiver Output Enable Time
UNITS
MIN TYP MAX
PARAMETER
TIMING CHARACTERISTICS—MAX3237
(VCC = +3.0V to +5.5V, C1–C4 = 0.1µF (Note 2), TA= TMIN to TMAX, unless otherwise noted. Typical values are at TA= +25°C.)
VCC = 3.0V to 4.5V, RL= 3kΩ, CL= 250pF,
one transmitter switching, MBAUD = VCC 1000
VCC = 4.5V to 5.5V, RL= 3kΩ, CL= 1000pF,
one transmitter switching, MBAUD = VCC
kbps
1000
Maximum Data Rate
R_IN to R_OUT, CL= 150pF
|tPHL - tPLH |, MBAUD = VCC ns25
Transmitter Skew
|tPHL - tPLH |ns50Receiver Skew
630
V/µs
430
tPHL
tPLH
CL= 150pF to 2500pF,
MBAUD = GND
CL= 150pF
to 1000pF
MBAUD =
GND
VCC = 3.3V, RL= 3Ωto 7kΩ,
+3V to -3V or -3V to +3V,
TA= +25°C
Transition-Region Slew Rate MBAUD =
VCC 24 150
Note 2: MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3241: C1–C4 = 0.1µF tested at 3.3V ±10%; C1 = 0.047µF, C2–C4 = 0.33µF tested at 5.0V ±10%.
MAX3237: C1–C4 = 0.1µF tested at 3.3V ±5%; C1–C4 = 0.22µF tested at 3.3V ±10%; C1 = 0.047µF, C2–C4 = 0.33µF tested
at 5.0V ±10%.
Note 3: Transmitter input hysteresis is typically 250mV.
-6
-5
-4
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
0
MAX3222/MAX3232
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE
vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
MAX3222-01
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
VOUT+
VOUT-
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
150
MAX3222/MAX3232
SLEW RATE
vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
MAX3222-02
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SLEW RATE (V/μs)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
FOR DATA RATES UP TO 235kbps
+SLEW
-SLEW
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
40
0
MAX3222/MAX3232
SUPPLY CURRENT vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
WHEN TRANSMITTING DATA
MAX3222-03
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SUPPLY CURRENT (mA)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
235kbps
120kbps
20kbps
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 5
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
-7.5
-5.0
-2.5
0
2.5
5.0
7.5
0
MAX3241
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE
vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
MAX3222-04
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
VOUT+
1 TRANSMITTER AT 235kbps
2 TRANSMITTERS AT 30kbps
VOUT-ALL OUTPUTS LOADED WITH 3kΩ +CL
0.1μF CHARGE-PUMP CAPACITORS
FOR ALL DATA RATES UP TO 235kbps
4
6
8
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
0
MAX3241
SLEW RATE
vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
MAX3222-05
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SLEW RATE (V/μs)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
+SLEW
-SLEW
0
5
10
15
20
25
30
35
45
40
0
MAX3241
SUPPLY CURRENT vs. LOAD
CAPACITANCE WHEN TRANSMITTING DATA
MAX3222-06
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SUPPLY CURRENT (mA)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
235kbps
120kbps
20kbps
-7.5
-5.0
-2.5
0
2.5
5.0
7.5
0
MAX3237
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE
vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE (MBAUD = GND)
MAX3222-07
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
1 TRANSMITTER AT 240kbps
4 TRANSMITTERS AT 15kbps
3kΩ + CL LOADS
VCC = 3.3V
0
10
20
30
50
40
60
70
0
MAX3237
SLEW RATE vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
(MBAUD = VCC)
MAX3222-10
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SLEW RATE (V/μs)
500 1000 1500 2000
-SLEW, 1Mbps
+SLEW, 1Mbps
1 TRANSMITTER AT FULL DATA RATE
4 TRANSMITTERS AT 1/16 DATA RATE
3kΩ + CL LOAD EACH OUTPUT
VCC = 3.3V
-SLEW, 2Mbps
+SLEW, 2Mbps
-7.5
-5.0
-2.5
0
2.5
5.0
7.5
0
MAX3237
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE
vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE (MBAUD = VCC)
MAX3222-08
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
500 1000 1500 2000
1 TRANSMITTER AT FULL DATA RATE
4 TRANSMITTERS AT 1/16 DATA RATE
3kΩ + CL LOAD, EACH OUTPUT
VCC = 3.3V
2Mbps 1.5Mbps
1Mbps
2Mbps
1Mbps
1.5Mbps
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
0
MAX3237
SUPPLY CURRENT vs.
LOAD CAPACITANCE (MBAUD = GND)
MAX3222-11
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SUPPLY CURRENT (mA)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
240kbps
120kbps
20kbps
1 TRANSMITTER AT FULL DATA RATE
4 TRANSMITTERS AT 1/16 DATA RATE
3kΩ + CL LOADS
VCC = 3.3V
0
2
4
6
8
10
12
0
MAX3237
SLEW RATE vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
(MBAUD = GND)
MAX3222-09
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
SLEW RATE (V/μs)
2000 30001000 4000 5000
+SLEW
-SLEW
1 TRANSMITTER AT 240kbps
4 TRANSMITTERS AT 15kbps
3kΩ + CL LOADS
VCC = 3.3V
0
10
30
20
40
50
60
70
0
MAX3237
SKEW vs. LOAD CAPACITANCE
(tPLH - tPHL)
MAX3222-12
LOAD CAPACITANCE (pF)
1000 1500500 2000 2500
MAX
MIN
AVERAGE; 10 PARTS
SKEW (ns)
1 TRANSMITTER AT 512kbps
4 TRANSMITTERS AT 32kbps
3kΩ + CL LOADS
VCC = 3.3V
MBAUD = VCC
_____________________________Typical Operating Characteristics (continued)
(VCC = +3.3V, 235kbps data rate, 0.1µF capacitors, all transmitters loaded with 3kΩ, TA= +25°C, unless otherwise noted.)
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
6 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
—
FUNCTION
—
MAX3222
Noninverting Complementary Receiver Outputs.
Always active.
DIP/SO SSOP
—11, 14
1 1 Receiver Enable. Active low.
2 2 Positive Terminal of Voltage-Doubler Charge-Pump
Capacitor
6 6 Negative Terminal of Inverting Charge-Pump
Capacitor
5 5 Positive Terminal of Inverting Charge-Pump
Capacitor
4 4 Negative Terminal of Voltage-Doubler Charge-Pump
Capacitor
3 3 +5.5V Generated by the Charge Pump
11, 12 12, 13 TTL/CMOS Transmitter Inputs
10, 13 10, 15 TTL/CMOS Receiver Outputs
9, 14 9, 16 RS-232 Receiver Inputs
8, 15 8, 17 RS-232 Transmitter Outputs
7 7 -5.5V Generated by the Charge Pump
18 20 Shutdown Control. Active low.
17 19 +3.0V to +5.5V Supply Voltage
16 18 Ground
No Connection
MAX3237MAX3232
—16
—13
128
5 3
4 1
325
227
10, 11 17, 19, 22,
23, 24
9, 12 18, 20, 21
8, 13 8, 9, 11
7, 14 5, 6, 7,
10, 12
6 4
—14
16 26
15 2
— —
NAME
EN
C1+
C2-
C2+
C1-
V+
T_IN
R_OUT
R_IN
T_OUT
V-
SHDN
VCC
GND
R_OUTB
N.C.
MAX3241
20, 21
23
28
2
1
24
27
12, 13, 14
15–19
4–8
9, 10, 11
3
22
26
25
—
PIN
— — MegaBaud Control Input. Connect to GND for normal
operation; connect to VCC for 1Mbps transmission rates.
—15 MBAUD—
______________________________________________________________Pin Description
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 7
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
_______________Detailed Description
Dual Charge-Pump Voltage Converter
The MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241’s internal
power supply consists of a regulated dual charge pump
that provides output voltages of +5.5V (doubling charge
pump) and -5.5V (inverting charge pump), regardless of
the input voltage (VCC) over the 3.0V to 5.5V range. The
charge pumps operate in a discontinuous mode; if the
output voltages are less than 5.5V, the charge pumps
are enabled, and if the output voltages exceed 5.5V, the
charge pumps are disabled. Each charge pump
requires a flying capacitor (C1, C2) and a reservoir
capacitor (C3, C4) to generate the V+ and V- supplies.
RS-232 Transmitters
The transmitters are inverting level translators that con-
vert CMOS-logic levels to 5.0V EIA/TIA-232 levels.
The MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3241 transmitters guaran-
tee a 120kbps data rate with worst-case loads of 3kΩin
parallel with 1000pF, providing compatibility with PC-to-
PC communication software (such as LapLink™).
Typically, these three devices can operate at data rates
of 235kbps. Transmitters can be paralleled to drive multi-
ple receivers or mice.
The MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241’s output stage is
turned off (high impedance) when the device is in shut-
down mode. When the power is off, the MAX3222/
MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241 permit the outputs to be
driven up to ±12V.
The transmitter inputs do not have pullup resistors.
Connect unused inputs to GND or VCC.
MAX3237 MegaBaud Operation
In normal operating mode (MBAUD = GND), the
MAX3237 transmitters guarantee a 250kbps data rate
with worst-case loads of 3kΩin parallel with 1000pF.
This provides compatibility with PC-to-PC communica-
tion software, such as LapLink.
For higher speed serial communications, the MAX3237
features MegaBaud operation. In MegaBaud operating
mode (MBAUD = VCC), the MAX3237 transmitters guar-
antee a 1Mbps data rate with worst-case loads of 3kΩin
parallel with 250pF for 3.0V < VCC < 4.5V. For 5V ±10%
operation, the MAX3237 transmitters guarantee a 1Mbps
data rate into worst-case loads of 3kΩin parallel with
1000pF.
MAX3222
MAX3232
MAX3237
MAX3241
5kΩ
R_ IN
R_ OUT
EN*
C2-
C2+
C1-
C1+
V-
V+
VCC
C4
C3
C1
C2
0.1μF
VCC
SHDN*
T_ OUT
T_ IN
GND
VCC
0V
7kΩ150pF
MAX3222
MAX3232
MAX3237
MAX3241
5kΩ
R_ IN
R_ OUT
EN*
C2-
C2+
C1-
C1+
V-
V+
VCC
C4
C3
C1
C2
0.1μF
VCC
SHDN*
T_ OUT
T_ IN
GND
VCC
0V
3kΩ2500pF
MINIMUM SLEW-RATE TEST CIRCUIT MAXIMUM SLEW-RATE TEST CIRCUIT
*MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241 ONLY
Figure 1. Slew-Rate Test Circuits
LapLink is a trademark of Traveling Software, Inc.
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
8 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
RS-232 Receivers
The receivers convert RS-232 signals to CMOS-logic out-
put levels. The MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241 receivers
have inverting three-state outputs. In shutdown, the
receivers can be active or inactive (Table 1).
The complementary outputs on the MAX3237 (R1OUTB)
and the MAX3241 (R1OUTB, R2OUTB) are always active,
regardless of the state of EN or SHDN. This allows for
Ring Indicator applications without forward biasing other
devices connected to the receiver outputs. This is ideal
for systems where VCC is set to 0V in shutdown to
accommodate peripherals, such as UARTs (Figure 2).
MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241
Shutdown Mode
Supply current falls to less than 1µA in shutdown mode
(SHDN = low). When shut down, the device’s charge
pumps are turned off, V+ is pulled down to VCC, V- is
pulled to ground, and the transmitter outputs are dis-
abled (high impedance). The time required to exit shut-
down is typically 100µs, as shown in Figure 3. Connect
SHDN to VCC if the shutdown mode is not used. SHDN
has no effect on R_OUT or R_OUTB.
MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241
Enable Control
The inverting receiver outputs (R_OUT) are put into a
high-impedance state when EN is high. The complemen-
tary outputs R1OUTB and R2OUTB are always active,
regardless of the state of EN and SHDN (Table 1). EN
has no effect on T_OUT.
__________Applications Information
Capacitor Selection
The capacitor type used for C1–C4 is not critical for
proper operation; polarized or nonpolarized capacitors
can be used. The charge pump requires 0.1µF capaci-
tors for 3.3V operation. For other supply voltages, refer to
Table 2 for required capacitor values. Do not use values
lower than those listed in Table 2. Increasing the capaci-
tor values (e.g., by a factor of 2) reduces ripple on the
transmitter outputs and slightly reduces power consump-
tion. C2, C3, and C4 can be increased without changing
C1’s value. However, do not increase C1 without also
increasing the values of C2, C3, and C4, to maintain the
proper ratios (C1 to the other capacitors).
When using the minimum required capacitor values,
make sure the capacitor value does not degrade exces-
sively with temperature. If in doubt, use capacitors with a
higher nominal value. The capacitor’s equivalent series
resistance (ESR), which usually rises at low tempera-
tures, influences the amount of ripple on V+ and V-.
MAX3237
MAX3241
T1OUT
R1OUTB
Tx
UART
VCC
T1IN
LOGIC
TRANSITION
DETECTOR
R1IN
R1OUT
EN = VCC
SHDN = GND
VCC
TO
μP
Rx
PREVIOUS
RS-232
Tx
UART
PROTECTION
DIODE
PROTECTION
DIODE
SHDN = GND
VCC
VCC
GND
Rx
5kΩ
a) OLDER RS-232: POWERED-DOWN UART DRAWS CURRENT FROM
ACTIVE RECEIVER OUTPUT IN SHUTDOWN.
b) NEW MAX3237/MAX3241: EN SHUTS DOWN RECEIVER OUTPUTS (EXCEPT FOR
B OUTPUTS), SO NO CURRENT FLOWS TO UART IN SHUTDOWN. B OUTPUTS
INDICATE RECEIVER ACTIVITY DURING SHUTDOWN WITH EN HIGH.
GND
5kΩ
Figure 2. Detection of RS-232 Activity when the UART and
Interface are Shut Down; Comparison of MAX3237/MAX3241
(b) with Previous Transceivers (a).
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 9
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
Power-Supply Decoupling
In most circumstances, a 0.1µF bypass capacitor is
adequate. In applications that are sensitive to power-
supply noise, decouple VCC to ground with a capacitor
of the same value as charge-pump capacitor C1. Connect
bypass capacitors as close to the IC as possible.
Operation Down to 2.7V
Transmitter outputs will meet EIA/TIA-562 levels of
±3.7V with supply voltages as low as 2.7V.
Transmitter Outputs when
Exiting Shutdown
Figure 3 shows two transmitter outputs when exiting
shutdown mode. As they become active, the two trans-
mitter outputs are shown going to opposite RS-232 lev-
els (one transmitter input is high, the other is low).
Each transmitter is loaded with 3kΩin parallel with
2500pF. The transmitter outputs display no ringing or
undesirable transients as they come out of shutdown.
Note that the transmitters are enabled only when the
magnitude of V- exceeds approximately 3V.
Mouse Driveability
The MAX3241 has been specifically designed to power
serial mice while operating from low-voltage power sup-
plies. It has been tested with leading mouse brands from
manufacturers such as Microsoft and Logitech. The
MAX3241 successfully drove all serial mice tested and
met their respective current and voltage requirements.
Figure 4a shows the transmitter output voltages under
increasing load current at 3.0V. Figure 4b shows a typical
mouse connection using the MAX3241.
Table 1. MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241
Shutdown and Enable Control Truth Table
Table 2. Required Minimum Capacitor Values
5V/div
VCC = 3.3V
C1–C4 = 0.1μF
2V/div
T2
50μs/div
T1
Figure 3. Transmitter Outputs when Exiting Shutdown or
Powering Up
VCC
(V)
C1
(µF)
4.5 to 5.5 0.047
3.0 to 5.5 0.1
C2, C3, C4
(µF)
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3241
0.33
0.47
1Active
0
1
Active1
SSHHDDNN
High-Z10
High-Z00
T_OUT
EENN
High-Z
Active
High-Z
Active
R_OUT
R_OUTB
(MAX3237/
MAX3241)
Active
Active
Active
Active
3.0 to 3.6 0.22
3.15 to 3.6 0.1
MAX3237
0.22
0.1
4.5 to 5.5 0.047
3.0 to 5.5 0.22
0.33
1.0
3.0 to 3.6 0.1 0.1
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
10 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
MAX3241
EN
23
R5OUT
15
R4OUT
16
R3OUT
17
R2OUT
18
R1OUT
19
R2OUTB
20
R1OUTB
21
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
R5IN 8
R4IN 7
6
R2IN 5
R1IN 4
SHDN 22
GND
25
T3IN
12
T2IN
13
T1IN
14
C2-
2
C2+
1
C1-
24
C1+
28
T3OUT 11
+V
COMPUTER SERIAL PORT
MOUSE
+V
-V
GND
Tx
T2OUT 10
T1OUT 9
V- 3
V+ 27
VCC
VCC
C4
C3 C1
C2
0.1μF
VCC = 3V
to 5.5V
26
R3IN
Figure 4b. Mouse Driver Test Circuit
-6
-5
-4
-3
-2
-1
0
1
2
3
4
5
6
01234567
MAX3222-04
LOAD CURRENT PER TRANSMITTER (mA)
TRANSMITTER OUTPUT VOLTAGE (V)
VOUT+
VCC = 3.0V
VOUT-
VOUT+
VCC VOUT-
T1
T2
T3
Figure 4a. MAX3241 Transmitter Output Voltage vs. Load Current per Transmitter
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 11
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
High Data Rates
The MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3241 maintain the RS-232
±5.0V minimum transmitter output voltage even at high
data rates. Figure 5 shows a transmitter loopback test
circuit. Figure 6 shows a loopback test result at
120kbps, and Figure 7 shows the same test at 235kbps.
For Figure 6, all transmitters were driven simultaneously
at 120kbps into RS-232 loads in parallel with 1000pF.
For Figure 7, a single transmitter was driven at 235kbps,
and all transmitters were loaded with an RS-232 receiver
in parallel with 1000pF.
The MAX3237 maintains the RS-232 ±5.0V minimum
transmitter output voltage at data rates up to 1Mbps.
Figure 8 shows a loopback test result at 1Mbps with
MBAUD = VCC. For Figure 8, all transmitters were
loaded with an RS-232 receiver in parallel with 250pF.
MAX3222
MAX3232
MAX3237
MAX3241
5kΩ
R_ IN
R_ OUT
EN*
C2-
C2+
C1-
C1+
V-
V+
VCC
C4
C3
C1
C2
0.1μF
VCC
SHDN*
T_ OUT
T_ IN
GND
VCC
0V 1000pF
*MAX3222/MAX3237/MAX3241 ONLY
T1IN
R1OUT
VCC = 3.3V
T1OUT
5V/div
5V/div
5V/div
5μs/div
Figure 5. Loopback Test Circuit
Figure 6. MAX3241 Loopback Test Result at 120kbps
T1IN
R1OUT
VCC = 3.3V
T1OUT
5V/div
5V/div
2μs/div
5V/div
Figure 7. MAX3241 Loopback Test Result at 235kbps
+5V
0V
+5V
0V
-5V
+5V
0V
T_IN
T_OUT = R_IN
5kΩ + 250pF
R_OUT
150pF
200ns/div
VCC = 3.3V
Figure 8. MAX3237 Loopback Test Result at 1000kbps
(MBAUD = VCC)
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
12 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
__________________________________________________Typical Operating Circuits
MAX3222
R2OUT10
1
R1OUT13
R2IN 9
18
GND
16
RS-232
OUTPUTS
TTL/CMOS
INPUTS
T2IN
11
T1IN
12
C2-
6
C2+
5
C1-
4
C1+
2
R1IN 14
T2OUT 8
T1OUT 15
V- 7
V+ 3
VCC
17
C1
0.1μF
C2
0.1μF
0.1μF
+3.3V
RS-232
INPUTS
TTL/CMOS
OUTPUTS
EN
SHDN
C3*
0.1μF
C4
0.1μF
PIN NUMBERS REFER TO DIP/SO PACKAGES.
* C3 CAN BE RETURNED TO EITHER VCC OR GROUND.
MAX3232
R2OUT9
R1OUT12
R2IN 8
GND
15
RS-232
OUTPUTS
TTL/CMOS
INPUTS
T2IN
10
T1IN
11
C2-
5
C2+
4
C1-
3
C1+
1
R1IN 13
T2OUT 7
T1OUT 14
V- 6
V+ 2
VCC
C4
0.1μF
16
0.1μF
0.1μF
0.1μF
+3.3V
RS-232
INPUTS
TTL/CMOS
OUTPUTS
C3*
0.1μF
* C3 CAN BE RETURNED TO EITHER VCC OR GROUND.
SEE TABLE 2 FOR CAPACITOR SELECTION
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
Interconnection with 3V and 5V Logic
The MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241 can
directly interface with various 5V logic families, includ-
ing ACT and HCT CMOS. See Table 3 for more informa-
tion on possible combinations of interconnections.
Table 3. Logic-Family Compatibility
with Various Supply Voltages
Compatible with ACT and
HCT CMOS, and with TTL.
Incompatible with AC, HC,
and CD4000 CMOS.
3.35
SYSTEM
POWER-
SUPPLY
VOLTAGE
(V)
Compatible with all TTL
and CMOS-logic families.
55
Compatible with all CMOS
families.
3.33.3
COMPATIBILITY
MAX32_ _
VCC
SUPPLY
VOLTAGE
(V)
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 13
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
_____________________________________Typical Operating Circuits (continued)
MAX3241
EN
23
R5OUT
15
R4OUT
16
R3OUT
17
R2OUT
18
R1OUT
19
R2OUTB
20
R1OUTB
21
TTL/CMOS
OUTPUTS
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
R5IN 8
* C3 CAN BE RETURNED TO EITHER VCC OR GROUND.
R4IN 7
R3IN 6
R2IN 5
R1IN 4
RS-232
INPUTS
SHDN 22
GND
25
RS-232
OUTPUTS
TTL/CMOS
INPUTS
T3IN
12
T2IN
13
T1IN
14
C2-
2
C2+
1
C1-
24
C1+
28
T3OUT 11
T2OUT 10
T1OUT 9
V- 3
V+ 27
VCC
C4
0.1μF
C3*
0.1μF
0.1μF
0.1μF
0.1μF
+3.3V 26
MAX3237
EN
13
R3OUT
18
R2OUT
20
R1OUT
21
R1OUTB
16
LOGIC
OUTPUTS
5kΩ
5kΩ
5kΩ
* C3 CAN BE RETURNED TO EITHER VCC OR GROUND.
R3IN 11
R2IN 9
R1IN 8
RS-232
INPUTS
GND
2
RS-232
OUTPUTS
LOGIC
INPUTS
T3IN
22
T2IN
23
T1IN
24
C2-
3
C2+
1
C1-
25
C1+
28
T3OUT 7
T2OUT 6
T1OUT 5
T1
T2
T3
R1
R2
R3
V- 4
V+ 27
VCC
0.1μF
0.1μF
0.1μF
0.1μF
0.1μF
26
MBAUD 15
T5IN
17
T4IN
19
T5OUT 12
T4OUT 10
SHDN 14
T4
T5
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
14 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
_____________________________________________Pin Configurations (continued)
16
15
14
13
12
11
10
9
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
VCC
GND
T1OUT
R1INC2+
C1-
V+
C1+
MAX3232
R1OUT
T1IN
T2IN
R2OUTR2IN
T2OUT
V-
C2-
DIP/SO/TSSOP
+
TOP VIEW
20
19
18
17
16
15
14
13
1
2
3
8
12
11
10
4
5
6
7
SHDN
VCC
GND
T1OUT
C1-
V+
C1+
EN
R1IN
R1OUT
T1IN
T2IN
T2OUT
V-
C2-
C2+
9
R2IN
R2OUT
SSOP/TSSOP
+
N.C.
N.C.
MAX3222
28
27
26
25
24
23
22
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
C1+
V+
VCC
C1-
T1IN
T2IN
MBAUD
T3IN
R1OUT
R2OUT
T4IN
R3OUT
T5IN
R1OUTB
SHDN
EN
T5OUT
R3IN
T4OUT
R2IN
R1IN
T3OUT
T2OUT
T1OUT
V-
C2-
GND
C2+
SSOP
MAX3237
+
28
27
26
25
24
23
22
21
20
19
18
17
16
15
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
C1+
V+
VCC
GND
C1-
EN
R5OUT
SHDN
R1OUTB
R2OUTB
R1OUT
R2OUT
R3OUT
R4OUT
T1IN
T2IN
T3IN
T3OUT
T2OUT
T1OUT
R5IN
R4IN
R3IN
R2IN
R1IN
V-
C2-
C2+
SO/SSOP/TSSOP
MAX3241
+
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
Maxim Integrated 15
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
______3V-Powered EIA/TIA-232 and EIA/TIA-562 Transceivers from Maxim
Ordering Information (continued)
*
Dice are tested at TA= +25°C, DC parameters only.
+
Denotes lead-free package.
0.1µF capacitors, 1 complemen-
tary receiver, MegaBaud
operation
232250/100035/33.0 to 5.5MAX3237
0.1µF capacitors, AutoShutdown,
complementary receiver,
drives mice
23212013/53.0 to 5.5MAX3243
0.1µF capacitors232120N/A2/23.0 to 5.5MAX3232
0.1µF capacitors, AutoShutdown23212022/23.0 to 5.5MAX3223
0.1µF capacitors23212022/23.0 to 5.5MAX3222
232
562
232
562
232
EIA/
TIA-232
OR 562
2.7 to 3.6
AutoShutdown, complementary
receiver, drives mice, transient
detection
23553/5MAX3212
0.1µF capacitors23022/23.0 to 3.6MAX563
Operates directly from batteries
without a voltage regulator
12022/21.8 to 4.25MAX218
No. OF
RECEIVERS
ACTIVE IN
SHUTDOWN
POWER-
SUPPLY
VOLTAGE
(V)
Wide supply range23053/52.7 to 5.25MAX562
Drives mice12053/53.0 to 3.6MAX212
FEATURES
GUAR-
ANTEED
DATA
RATE
(kbps)
No. OF
TRANSMITTERS/
RECEIVERS
PART
0.1µF capacitors, 2 complemen-
tary receivers, drives mice
23212053/53.0 to 5.5MAX3241
PART TEMP RANGE PIN-PACKAGE PKG
CODE
MAX3222EUP+ -40°C to +85°C 20 TSSOP U20+2
MAX3222EAP+ -40°C to +85°C 20 SSOP A20+1
MAX3222EWN+ -40°C to +85°C 18 SO W18+1
MAX3222EPN+ -40°C to +85°C 18 Plastic Dip P18+5
MAX3222C/D 0°C to +70°C Dice* —
MAX3232CUE+ 0°C to +70°C 16 TSSOP U16+1
MAX3232CSE+ 0°C to +70°C 16 Narrow SO S16+1
MAX3232CWE+ 0°C to +70°C 16 Wide SO W16+1
MAX3232CPE+ 0°C to +70°C 16 Plastic DIP P16+1
MAX3232EUE+ -40°C to +85°C 16 TSSOP U16+1
MAX3232ESE+ -40°C to +85°C 16 Narrow SO S16+5
PART TEMP RANGE PIN-PACKAGE PKG
CODE
MAX3232EWE+ -40°C to +85°C 16 Wide SO W16+1
MAX3232EPE+ -40°C to +85°C 16 Plastic DIP P16+1
MAX3237CAI+ 0°C to +70°C 16 SSOP A28+2
MAX3237EAI+ 0°C to +70°C 28 SSOP A28+1
MAX3241CUI+ 0°C to +70°C 28 TSSOP U28+2
MAX3241CAI+ 0°C to +70°C 28 SSOP A28+1
MAX3241CWI+ 0°C to +70°C 28 SO W28+6
MAX3241EUI+ -40°C to +85°C 28 TSSOP U28+2
MAX3241EAI+ -40°C to +85°C 28 SSOP A28+1
MAX3241EWI+ -40°C to +85°C 28 SO W28+6
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
16 Maxim Integrated
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
___________________Chip Topography ___________________Chip Information
T1INT2IN
0.127"
(3.225mm)
0.087"
(2.209mm)
R2OUTR2INT2OUT
R1OUT
R1IN
T1OUT
VCC
V+ C1+
SHDN
EN
C1-
C2+
C2-
V-
GND
MAX3222
TRANSISTOR COUNT: 339
SUBSTRATE CONNECTED TO GND
MAX3222 339
MAX3232 339
MAX3237 1212
MAX3241 894
TRANSISTOR COUNTPART
Maxim Integrated cannot assume responsibility for use of any circuitry other than circuitry entirely embodied in a Maxim Integrated product. No circuit patent
licenses are implied. Maxim Integrated reserves the right to change the circuitry and specifications without notice at any time. The parametric values (min and
max limits) shown in the Electrical Characteristics table are guaranteed. Other parametric values quoted in this data sheet are provided for guidance.
Maxim Integrated 160 Rio Robles, San Jose, CA 95134 USA 1-408-601-1000
17
© 2007 Maxim Integrated Products, Inc. Maxim Integrated and the Maxim Integrated logo are trademarks of Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
3.0V to 5.5V, Low-Power, up to 1Mbps, True RS-232
Transceivers Using Four 0.1µF External Capacitors
MAX3222/MAX3232/MAX3237/MAX3241
TSSOP4.40mm.EPS
Package Information
For the latest package outline information and land patterns (footprints), go to www.maximintegrated.com/packages. Note that a
“+”, “#”, or “-” in the package code indicates RoHS status only. Package drawings may show a different suffix character, but the
drawing pertains to the package regardless of RoHS status.
Revision History
Pages changed at Rev 7: 1, 15, 16, 17
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Maxim Integrated:
MAX3222CAP+ MAX3222CPN+ MAX3222CUP+ MAX3222CWN+ MAX3222EAP+ MAX3222EUP+
MAX3232CPE+ MAX3232CSE+ MAX3232CUE+ MAX3232CWE+ MAX3232ESE+ MAX3232EUE+ MAX3237CAI+
MAX3237EAI+ MAX3241CAI+ MAX3241CUI+ MAX3241CWI+ MAX3241EAI+ MAX3241EUI+ MAX3241EWI+
MAX3232CSE-T MAX3222CAP+T MAX3222CUP+T MAX3222CWN+T MAX3222EAP+T MAX3222EPN+
MAX3222EUP+T MAX3222EWN+ MAX3222EWN+T MAX3232CAE+ MAX3232CAE+T MAX3232CSE
MAX3232CSE+T MAX3232CUE+T MAX3232CWE+T MAX3232EPE+ MAX3232ESE+T MAX3232EUE+T
MAX3232EWE+ MAX3232EWE+T MAX3237CAI+T MAX3237EAI+T MAX3241CAI+T MAX3241CUI+T
MAX3241CWI+T MAX3241EAI+T MAX3241EUI+T MAX3241EWI+T MAX3232EWE
