Single UART bridge for I2C or SPI host buses
The NXP SC16IS740IPW,128 is a single-channel UART controller that translates between a host I2C or SPI interface and serial protocols RS232 or RS485, all in a 16-TSSOP package. It handles the serial framing, baud-rate generation, and FIFO buffering so the host microcontroller offloads low-level UART timing. Typical applications include industrial PLCs, sensor gateways, point-of-sale terminals, and telecom line cards where the main MCU lacks a dedicated UART peripheral or needs an extra serial port without a core redesign.
Supply rails and temperature range
Rated for 2.5 V or 3.3 V supply, the SC16IS740IPW,128 matches common 2.5 V and 3.3 V logic families directly — no level shifters needed when the host MCU runs on the same rail. Supply current is 6 mA typical, low enough for most bus-powered designs without a separate regulator.
Housed in a 16-TSSOP (4.40 mm body width), the footprint is standard for small-footprint serial bridges. CT suits prototype or low-volume builds. ROHS3 compliant, no exemption concerns for EU or global markets.
Lifecycle and design-in confidence
For dual-sourcing resilience, the SC16IS740 family includes pin-compatible variants (same 16-TSSOP footprint) that share the host interface and protocol support; the exact alternate order codes are available on request when you submit an RFQ.