I/O Expanders Enable Remote Expansion

The MAX1608 and 1609 I/O expanders are designed to provide remote I/O expansion via an SMBus serial interface. Each device has eight high-voltage, open-drain outputs that also serve as TTL-compatible logic inputs, enabling bi-directional capability. The eight I/Os are continuously monitored and can be used as inputs. Two internal, eight-bit latches let the inputs be toggled between two states using the SMBus suspend input without the inherent latency of reprogramming the inputs and outputs over the serial bus. The MAX1608 is intended for driving N-channel MOSFETs and the MAX1609 is for driving P-channel MOSFETs. Pricing is from $2.61 each/1,000.