RS-232 Transceiver Selection Guide: MAX3232 vs. MAX232 vs. ST3232
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Crucially, both chips operate over a wide supply voltage range of , making them flexible for both 3.3V and 5V systems. They incorporate an internal dual charge pump that generates the necessary bipolar voltages (±5.5V typical) from a single positive supply, requiring only a few small external capacitors. This design eliminates the need for multiple power supplies and simplifies PCB layout dramatically. Both are available in standard 16-pin packages such as TSSOP and SOIC, and their pin assignments are functionally compatible, which is why engineers frequently swap them in existing designs. RS-232 Transceiver Selection Guide: MAX3232 vs
By considering the unique features and advantages of each device, you can make an informed decision and select the best RS-232 transceiver for your design. Both are available in standard 16-pin packages such