RS-485 Transceiver Eliminates External Protection

The MAX13448E fault-protected, full-duplex RS-485 transceiver is capable of withstanding shorts up to ±80V on the RS-485 interface pins, thereby eliminating the need for external protection circuitry. It prevents data transmissions during a fault condition and resumes normal operation after removal of the fault. This feature proves useful in architectures such as USB and CAN where power and data travel over the same cable. Slew-rate limiting reduces EMI and reflections on the data bus, enabling error-free data transmission at rates up to 500 kb/s with a 5V supply and 250 kb/s with a +3.3V supply. Other features include hot-swap capability, ±8 kV of ESD protection per the human body model, and an operating temperature range from -40?C to +85?C. Available in a 14-pin SO package, pricing starts at $2.20 each/1,000. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.