UM3232EEUE Fail-Safe, Single Supply RS-232 Transceivers

Overview

The GCORE UM3232EEUE is a dual RS-232 line driver/receiver IC designed for reliable serial communication in embedded, industrial, and consumer applications. It is fully pin-to-pin compatible with Texas Instruments’ TRS3232EIDW, while offering improvements in power efficiency, ESD protection, and sourcing flexibility. Both devices support full RS-232/V.28 compliance and integrate charge-pump circuitry, but GCORE’s UM3232EEUE stands out with practical advantages in performance and supply chain reliability.

Supply Voltage and Power Efficiency

GCORE’s UM3232EEUE operates across a wide supply voltage range of 3.0V to 5.5V, allowing seamless integration into both 3.3V and 5V systems. Like the TRS3232EIDW, it integrates internal charge pumps requiring only four external capacitors, but UM3232EEUE demonstrates lower typical quiescent current, making it better suited for power-sensitive applications, such as portable or battery-powered devices.

Data Rate and Signal Quality

Both devices support data rates up to 250 kbps, compliant with RS-232 standards. However, GCORE’s UM3232EEUE incorporates output slew-rate control, which reduces EMI and enhances signal integrity across long cables and noisy environments. This feature provides better system-level EMC performance compared to the TRS3232EIDW, especially in applications involving multiple peripheral interconnects or high-frequency switching circuits.

Robust ESD Protection

A key differentiator for the UM3232EEUE is its exceptional ESD robustness, offering up to ±15kV protection based on the IEC 61000-4-2 standard (contact discharge). In contrast, while TRS3232EIDW supports ESD up to ±15kV (HBM), the HBM model is less representative of real-world electrostatic discharge events. GCORE’s compliance with IEC contact standards makes the UM3232EEUE better suited for applications with frequent physical handling or exposed interfaces.

Package and Pin Compatibility

Both UM3232EEUE and TRS3232EIDW are offered in a 16-pin SOIC wide-body (SOIC-W) package. The GCORE part maintains full pin-to-pin compatibility with the TI device, simplifying design-in and direct replacement. Moreover, GCORE’s SOIC-W packaging uses high-quality molding materials that offer enhanced thermal cycling durability and moisture resistance, improving long-term reliability in industrial conditions.

Temperature Range and Reliability

Both devices support the -40°C to +85°C industrial temperature range, enabling use in harsh environments. However, the UM3232EEUE is backed by GCORE’s high-reliability production process, with full ATE test coverage and traceable quality control systems. This ensures tighter performance consistency and lower field failure rates, making it ideal for mission-critical or high-volume applications.

Supply Chain Stability and Cost Efficiency

While TI’s TRS3232EIDW is widely recognized, recent market conditions have led to increased lead times and cost pressures on some TI RS-232 devices. GCORE’s UM3232EEUE offers a cost-effective alternative with shorter lead times, high availability, and dedicated local technical support. This makes it an excellent strategic choice for OEMs seeking supply chain resilience and operational flexibility.

Conclusion

The GCORE UM3232EEUE provides several compelling advantages over the TRS3232EIDW, including:

• Wider supply voltage range and lower quiescent current for power-sensitive applications

• Stronger ESD protection (±15kV IEC contact discharge)

• Improved EMC performance through controlled output slew rates

• Package-level reliability enhancements and industrial-grade robustness

• Cost-effective, short lead-time supply with local engineering support

For designers looking to improve system robustness and reduce BOM cost without compromising compatibility, GCORE’s UM3232EEUE is a superior and reliable RS-232 solution.