News & Events
Intersil Introduces Two New RS-232 Interface Ics with Choice of New Space-Saving or Legacy Packaging

-- Intersil continues leadership in developing small form factor ICs for portables and handhelds

MILPITAS, CA, February 13, 2003 – Intersil Corporation (NASDAQ: ISIL), a world leader in the design and manufacture of high performance analog and wireless networking solutions, today announced two new additions to their expanding high-performance RS-232 interface line – the ISL4260E and ISL83386E. The ISL4260E joins the previously announced ISL424XE/ISL4238E RS-232 transceivers as the worlds smallest in a tiny 5 X 5 X 0.9 mm Quad Flat No-lead (QFN) package. The ISL83386E is a 20-lead TSSOP packaged version. Both package types are suitable for use in any handheld battery-powered space-constrained device.

The ISL4260E and ISL83386E have 3 transmitters and 2 receivers. Both devices operate over a 3.0-V to 5.5-V supply range and are fully compatible with 3 V, mixed 3 V and 5 V, and 5 V-only systems. Each IC features a very low 300-uA supply current and an even lower power-down current of only 150 nA. The ISL83386E is a pin-for-pin match with the MAX3386E and SP3203E, and is intended for use in PDAs and other handheld devices requiring an RS-232 link to a PC. Intersil’s ISL424X series transceivers complete the serial communications interface on the PC end of the link.

A unique VL supply pin improves interoperation in mixed-voltage logic systems, by adjusting the input thresholds and output logic levels to match the external supply. The RS-232 transmitters/receivers meet EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications, even at Vcc = 3 V. ESD protection is provided (+/-15 kV, IEC61000-4-2 Air Gap and Human Body Model) on all transmitter outputs and receiver inputs.

The ISL4260E’s QFN package occupies 40% less board space than the TSSOP package. Small lands on the underside perimeter provide circuit contact so there are no leads to become bent during handling or assembly. Unlike chip-scale packages that utilize an array of solder bumps, the perimeter lands of the QFN package allow post assembly inspection of solder joints. Special manufacturing equipment is not needed.

ISL4260E/ISL83386E Technical Details

• Contains 3 transmitters (3Tx) and 2 receivers (2Rx) to offer design flexibility
• 150 nA powered-down sleep-mode current – industry’s lowest for extended battery use
• ISL4260E - 32-pad 5 X 5 X 0.9 mm QFN package – industry’s smallest and thinnest for miniaturization
• ISL83386E - 20-lead TSSOP package pin-for-pin with MAX3386E and SP3203E
• Meets EIA/TIA-232 and V.28/V.24 specifications, even at Vcc = 3 V
• +/-15 kV ESD protection (IEC61000-4-2 Air Gap and Human Body Model) on transmitter outputs and receiver inputs for reliability - safeguards against zaps that occur during the frequent connecting and disconnecting of the RS-232 cable
• VL supply pin improves interoperation in mixed-voltage logic systems
• 3.0 V to 5.5 V supply range: compatible with 3 V, mixed 3 V and 5 V, and 5 V-only systems
• Single SHDN (active low) pin disables transmitters and receivers
• On-chip charge pumps require only four external 0.1 uF capacitors
• Guaranteed minimum data rate of 250 kbps

Price and Availability
The ISL4260EIR and ISL83386EIV are available now, both with industrial temperature ratings. Pricing for the ISL4260EIR is $2.96 and the ISL83386EIV is $2.46 per IC in 100- to 999-unit quantities. About Intersil
Intersil Corporation is a global semiconductor leader in the design and manufacture of high performance analog and wireless networking solutions. Intersil’s product portfolios address four fast growing markets – flat panel displays, optical storage (CD and DVD recordable), power management and wireless networking. Intersil brings added customer value in providing complete silicon, software and reference design solutions to new products that enhance the computing experience for people wherever they live, work or travel. For more information about Intersil or to find out how to become a member of our winning team, visit the company's web site and career page at: www.intersil.com

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