RS-485 transceivers operate in harsh environments

MaxLinear, Inc. has introduced a new family of RS-485 serial transceivers for harsh industrial environments. Offering ultra-low electromagnetic interference (EMI), the half-duplex transceivers are rated for environments up to 125°C and can transmit data at distances over 1 kilometer to minimize unscheduled downtime and increase productivity, said the company.

(Source: MaxLinear)

The family consists of four discrete chips within two families: The MxL8310x and the MxL8311x. The MxL8310x devices operate from a 5-V power supply and MxL8311x devices operate from 3-V to 5.5-V power supply. They can be used for bidirectional communication on balanced multi-point bus transmission lines and comply with RS-485 and RS-422 EIA standards.

Other features include a low slew rate with slew-controlled output drivers that reduce EMI transmission, low-power shutdown mode that can extend the life of batteries and integrated (IEC 61000-4-4) electrical fast transient (EFT) and (IEC 61000-4-2) electrostatic discharge (ESD) protection. The extended operating temperature ranges from –40°C to 125°C.

The RS-485 transceivers also feature high-tolerance bus pins that tolerate IEC 61000-4-4, protecting the system from bursts of fast high-voltage transients that are caused by switch contactors, relays, faulty power connections or other sources, said MaxLinear.

Available now in an industry standard package and pinout, the new transceivers target a range of applications in the industrial connectivity and smart manufacturing segments, including factory automation, robotics, motor drives, building automation, security, HVAC, solar, textiles and point-of-sale.