The MAX3218EAP+T RS-232 transceiver is intended for battery-powered EIA/TIA-232E and V.28/V.24 communications interfaces that need two drivers and two receivers with minimum power consumption from a single low-voltage supply. It provides a wide +1.8V to +4.25V operating voltage range while maintaining true RS-232 and EIA/TIA-562 voltage levels. The MAX3218EAP+T runs from two alkaline, NiCd, or NiMH cells without any form of voltage regulator. A guaranteed 120kbps data rate provides compatibility with popular software for communicating with personal computers. Supply current is reduced to 1μA with Maxim's new AutoShutdown feature. When the MAX3218EAP+T does not sense a valid signal level on the receiver inputs, the on-board power-supply and drivers shut down. This occurs if the RS-232 cable is disconnected or if the transmitters of the connected peripheral are turned off. The system turns on again when a valid level is applied to either RS-232 receiver input. As a result, the system saves power without changes to the existing software. Additionally, the MAX3218EAP+T can be forced into or out of shutdown, under logic control. While shut down, all receivers can remain active or can be disabled under logic control, permitting a system incorporating the CMOS MAX3218EAP+T to monitor external devices while in low-power shutdown. Three-state drivers are provided on both receiver outputs so that multiple receivers, generally of different interface standards, can be on the same bus. The MAX3218EAP+T is available in 20-pin DIP and SSOP packages.

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