The MAX3243 is a single-chip single-supply interface that can be used for IBM PC/AT serial ports, meets or exceeds the requirements of TIA/EIA-232-F and ITU v.28 standards, operates with a power supply of 3-V to 5.5-V VCC, has 3 drivers and 5 receivers, supports a data transfer rate of 250 kbit/s, has a low standby current of 1 µA, has external capacitors of 4 × 0.1 µF, can accept 5-V logic input with a 3.3-V supply, has an always-active non-inverting receiver output (ROUT2B), supports an alternative high-speed pin-compatible device (1 Mbit/s) – SNx5C3243, supports serial mouse driveability, and has an auto-powerdown feature that disables driver outputs when no valid RS-232 signal is sensed.
The MAX3243 provides three line drivers and five line receivers in a single‑chip solution that meets TIA/EIA‑232‑F and ITU‑V.28 standards. It operates from a single 3 V to 5.5 V supply, includes +15 kV HBM ESD protection, and supports data rates up to 250 kbit/s.
An auto‑powerdown feature reduces standby current to about 1 µA when no valid RS‑232 signal is present, and the device offers multiple package options (DW, DB, PW, etc.) for various mounting needs.
| Supply voltage range (Voc) | 3 V to 5.5 V |
|---|---|
| Maximum data rate | 250 kbit/s |
| Number of drivers / receivers | 3 drivers, 5 receivers |
| Low standby current | 1 µA typical |
| External capacitors | 4 × 0.1 µF |
| Logic input compatibility | Accepts 5‑V logic with 3.3‑V supply |
| Driver output slew rate | 30 V/µs (max) |
The device operates at data signaling rates up to 250 kbit/s.