The Adafruit RS232 Pal provides two duplex channels of UART-to-RS-232 level shifting in a compact breakout board. Built around the trusted TI MAX3232E, it handles the positive and negative voltage generation internally and supports communication at up to 250 Kbps on 3.3 V power and logic.

With two full-duplex channels, you get both RX/TX plus two additional flow control signals like RTS and CTS. The board breaks out the RS-232 voltage rails as well, in case you need to reference them directly.

Key Features

• MAX3232E Level Shifter – 2 duplex channels for TX, RX, and flow control (e.g. RTS/CTS)
• 3.3 V Power & Logic – Runs on 3.3 V, compatible with modern microcontrollers
• Up to 250 Kbps – Suitable for most RS-232 communication needs
• Internal Voltage Generation – Generates the required ±6 to ±10 V RS-232 signal levels from 3.3 V
• Voltage Rail Breakout – Doubled and negative voltage rails accessible for external use
• Fully Assembled – UART side for low-voltage logic, RS-232 side for high-voltage signals; header included

Also Consider

• RS-232 Full Pinout Level-Shifter Breakout (DE9-F) – 8-channel version with full flow control and DE-9 connector
• RS-232 Full Breakout with DE9-M – 8-channel version with male DE-9 connector

Ideal For

• Simple TX/RX plus flow control RS-232 connections
• Interfacing with industrial, telco, or retro equipment
• Modem, barcode scanner, and serial terminal communication
• Projects that only need 2 channels and don't require a full DE-9 connector

Package Contents

• 1× Adafruit RS232 Pal breakout (fully assembled)
• 1× Header strip (soldering required for breadboard use)