Multiprotocol Transceiver Reduces Component Count in RS485/RS232 Systems

Linear Technology Corporation introduces the LTC2873, an RS485/RS232 multiprotocol transceiver in a small 20mm² package. The LTC2873 integrates all the functions necessary to provide the most compact multiprotocol IC available today. Supporting ±26kV HBM ESD bus protection, the LTC2873 provides a robust software-selectable interface for 3V to 5.5V systems. A simple logic interface, supporting voltages as low as 1.7V, enables reconfiguration of shared bus lines as either one RS232 single-ended transceiver or one half-duplex RS485 differential transceiver. Additionally, an integrated DC/DC boost controller and pin-controlled RS485 integrated termination resistor eliminate the need for costly and space-consuming external circuitry. Multiprotocol transceivers such as the LTC2873 are widely used in single point-of-sale terminals, security cameras, traffic control and industrial automation for their flexibility in supporting these commonly used interface standards.

The LTC2873 is offered in commercial, industrial and automotive versions, supporting operating temperature ranges from 0°C to 70°C, -40°C to 85°C and -40°C to 125°C, respectively. The LTC2873 is available in a RoHS compliant 24-pin 4mm x 5mm QFN package. Pricing starts at $4.45 each in 1,000-piece quantities.