RS-232 transceiver for mixed-voltage serial links
It converts single-ended RS-232 levels to the 3V to 5.5V logic side without needing a separate charge-pump capacitor bank for the negative rail — the on-chip charge pump generates the ±5.5V RS-232 output swing from a single supply. This makes it a direct fit for legacy DB9 or RJ45 serial ports on industrial PCs, point-of-sale terminals, and telecom line cards where the board already runs 3.3V or 5V.
250 kbps data rate — where it works and where it doesn't
Rated at 250 kbps, this transceiver handles standard UART speeds up to 115200 baud with margin, plus common 230.4 kbps links. If your design needs 460.8 kbps or 1 Mbps RS-232 (some barcode scanners, high-speed printers), this part won't close the eye — step up to a 1 Mbps-rated MAX3232 variant or a MAX3222 family part. For 9600 to 115200 baud, the 300 mV receiver hysteresis gives clean noise rejection on cables up to a few metres.
Supply and temperature — board-level fit
If the board sees a cold warehouse or engine bay, pick the industrial-temperature MAX3232IDW or MAX3232EIPW instead.
TI lists the MAX3232CDWRE4 as Active. No last-time-buy notice, no end-of-life window.