The MAX3221/MAX3223/MAX3243 achieve 1μA supply current with Maxim's revolutionary AutoShutdown? feature. When the MAX3221/MAX3223/MAX3243 do not sense a valid signal level on their receiver inputs, the on-board power supply and drivers shut down. This occurs if the RS-232 cable is disconnected or if the transmitters of the connected peripheral are turned off. The system turns on again when a valid level is applied to any RS-232 receiver input. As a result, the system saves power without changes to the existing BIOS or operating system.

The MAX3221/MAX3223/MAX3243 transceivers are 3V-powered EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 communications interfaces intended for notebook computer applications. A proprietary, high-efficiency, dual charge-pump power supply and a low-dropout transmitter combine to deliver true RS-232 performance from a single +3.0V to +5.5V supply. A guaranteed data rate of 120kbps provides compatibility with popular software for communicating with personal computers.

The MAX3221/MAX3223/MAX3243 require only 0.1μF capacitors in 3.3V operation, and can operate from input voltages ranging from +3.0V to +5.5V. They are ideal for 3.3V-only systems, mixed 3.3V and 5.0V systems, or 5.0V-only systems that require true RS-232 performance.

The MAX3221 is a 1-driver/1-receiver 16-pin SSOP version of the 20-pin MAX3223 (2-driver/2-receiver). The MAX3243 3-driver/5-receiver, complete serial port is ideal for notebook or subnotebook computers. The MAX3243 includes one complementary always-active receiver. This receiver can monitor an external device (such as a modem) in shutdown, without forward biasing the protection diodes in a UART that may have VCC completely removed.