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RS-232 transceiver

MAX232 Specifications

Review MAX232 electrical specifications, operating conditions and package details.

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Key specifications

The charge pump creates the positive and negative voltages RS-232 needs, using a single 5 V supply.

Nominal supply5 V
Maximum data rate120 kbit/s
Ambient range0–70 °C
Each pump capacitor1 µF

Operating profile

Supply, signals and operating conditions

MAX232 operating profile
ParameterValueConditions / notes
Supply4.5–5.5 V5 V nominal
InputsTTL / CMOS · RS-232Two drivers + two receivers
OutputsRS-232 · TTL / CMOSInverting level translation
Temperature0–70 °COperating ambient
Use these values with the stated grade and test conditions.

Package details

MAX232N · PDIP-16

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Selected MAX232 physical package
PropertyDetails
ManufacturerTexas Instruments
Part numberMAX232N
PackagePDIP-16
Connections16 pins
MountingThrough-hole
Lead pitch2.54 mm
Package codeN
Thermal reference60.6 °C/W

Electrical & physical specifications

Texas Instruments MAX232N · PDIP-16 · Reference values

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ParameterValueConditions / notes
Supply voltage4.5–5.5 V5 V nominal; recommended operating range
Maximum data rate120 kbit/sOne transmitter output switching; see datasheet test conditions
Transmit / receive channels2 / 2Two drivers and two receivers
Supply current8 mA typ. / 10 mA max.VCC = 5.5 V, outputs open, ambient = 25 °C
Driver output+7 V / −7 V typicalVCC = 5 V, ambient = 25 °C, 3 kΩ load to GND; +5 V / −5 V guaranteed limits
Logic input HIGH / LOW≥ 2 V / ≤ 0.8 VT1IN and T2IN; values between thresholds are undefined
Receiver input range−30 to +30 VR1IN and R2IN only
Receiver hysteresis0.5 V typicalAt VCC = 5 V
Operating temperature0 to +70 °CMAX232N commercial grade; MAX232I has a different range
Charge-pump capacitors4 × 1 µFPlus supply bypass; follow the typical application, section 8
PackagePDIP-16, 16 leadsTI N package; 2.54 mm lead pitch
Junction-to-ambient60.6 °C/WPDIP-16; datasheet thermal characterization conditions
Supply absolute maximum−0.3 to +6 VStress rating only, not an operating range
Maximum junction temperature150 °CAbsolute maximum, not the ambient operating rating

Reference: TI SLLS047N, sections 4–8 and package drawings. Check the exact manufacturer and suffix before substituting MAX232A, MAX3232 or another family member. Verify a production footprint against your ordered part.

Connections by function

Select a pin for its function, connection guidance and electrical notes.

Charge pump6 pins

RS-2324 pins

TTL / CMOS4 pins

Ground1 pin

Supply1 pin

Read the conditions with every value

Typical values describe stated test conditions. Absolute maximum ratings are stress limits, not operating targets.

Official PDF datasheet

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