MAX232 dual EIA 232 drivers and receiver

The MAX232 IC is a highly reliable dual driver and receiver IC designed for RS-232 serial communication. It converts TTL logic levels (0–5V) from microcontrollers into RS-232 voltage levels (±12V) and vice versa, allowing seamless communication between MCUs, PCs, and other serial-enabled devices.

It includes internal charge pumps with external capacitors to generate required voltage levels, reducing the need for dual power supplies. The MAX232 is widely used in UART communication, embedded systems, modems, and industrial electronics.

🔹 Applications

• UART serial communication with PCs and laptops

• Microcontroller-to-computer communication (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, NodeMCU)

• Modems and embedded communication systems

• Data logging and monitoring devices

• Industrial automation systems

• Robotics and IoT projects requiring RS-232 protocol

• Serial device programming and debugging

🔹 Precautions

• Use recommended 1µF to 10µF external capacitors for charge pump stability

• Ensure Vcc = 5V for correct operation

• Avoid reverse polarity on power pins

• Do not exceed absolute maximum ratings (Input: ±25V)

• Proper grounding is required to prevent communication noise

• Protect IC from electrostatic discharge (ESD)

🔹 Technical Specifications

• IC Type: Dual EIA-232 Driver & Receiver

• Package: DIP-16

• Drivers/Receivers: 2 drivers, 2 receivers

• Logic Compatibility: TTL/CMOS

• Operating Voltage (Vcc): +5V

• Input Logic Level: 0V (Low), 5V (High)

• RS-232 Output Levels: ±7.5V to ±12V typical

• Baud Rate: Up to 120 kbps

• External Components: Requires 4 external capacitors (1µF–10µF)

• Operating Temperature Range: 0°C to +70°C

• Pin Count: 16 pins

📹 Tutorial Video

Watch MAX232 RS-232 Communication Tutorial

🔹 Related Categories

• IC’s

• Electronics Components

• Arduino and Accessories

• Tools and Accessories

🔹 Summary

The MAX232 IC (DIP-16) is a robust dual RS-232 driver and receiver that allows microcontrollers to communicate with PCs, modems, and other RS-232 devices. With its internal charge pumps, TTL/CMOS compatibility, and reliable data transmission, it is widely used in UART communication, embedded systems, and industrial automation. An essential addition to your IC’s collection for communication-based projects.