Integrating three transmitters and five receivers in a UCSP, the MAX3246E RS-232 transceiver claims to take up 55% less space than comparable devices. The chip also eliminates additional external components by providing ESD protection up to ±15 kV per the human body model, ±8 kV per IEC 61000-4-2 contact discharge, and ±15 kV per IEC 61000-4-2 air-gap discharge. Operation is from a single 3V to 5.5V supply via a regulated dual charge pump. Other features include a shut-down mode current of 1 µA, quiescent current of 0.3 mA,and operation at data rates up to 250 Kb/s. Available in both commercial and extended temperature ranges, the transceiver has a starting price of $1.80 each/1,000. MAXIM INTEGRATED PRODUCTS, Sunnyvale, CA. (800) 998-8800.
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