STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, has introduced a new transceiver that delivers robust and reliable performance for industrial applications by supporting faster data rates than existing RS-485 transceivers.

STMicroelectronics today announced the launch of the ST4E1240, an RS-485 transceiver featuring 40 Mbit/s speed, PROFIBUS-compatible output, and transient load and hot-swap protection.

The ST4E1240 is the first in a new family of transceivers from ST that provide robust, reliable RS-485 signaling for demanding modern industrial applications.

The new transceivers support significantly higher data rates than the existing RS-485 standard and allow more than 64 transceivers to run on the bus, connecting multiple points with extension cables.

Key applications include programmable logic controllers (PLCs), robots, communication infrastructure, smart building control, servo drives, optical networking devices, grid infrastructure, data acquisition systems such as smart meters, and backplane buses.

The ST4E1240 has built-in contact discharge protection up to +/-12kV, meeting IEC 61000-4-2, allowing the device to be used without external ESD protection. there is.

It also provides Class-A high-speed transient protection up to +/-4kV compliant with IEC 61000-4-4, ensuring data integrity and bus stability.

Hot-swap circuitry prevents unwanted bus states while turning on or plugging in devices, and can discharge up to 100 pF of parasitic capacitance.

The transceiver also incorporates failsafe protection that drives the outputs high to prevent an uncertain condition when an open, short, or idle bus is detected. It also has 250mA short-circuit protection and thermal shutdown.

The ST4E1240 complies with all TIA/EIA-485 (RS-485) standards and provides compatibility with the widely used PROFIBUS fieldbus standard while ensuring that the output differential voltage exceeds 2.1 V from a 5 V supply.

It also features a shutdown mode controlled by an external enable pin, reducing standby current to less than 3.5μA, supporting energy-sensitive applications.

The ST4E1240 RS-485 transceiver is backed by ST's 10-year product longevity assurance program.

The device is currently in production and is available in the SO-8 4.9 mm x 3.91 mm package. Pricing starts at $0.81 for 1,000-piece quantities. Free samples are available from the ST eStore.

For further information, see www.st.com/en/interfaces-and-transceivers/st4e1240.html.