UART Interface ICs

Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (UART)

Definition:
The UART is a hardware device that enables communication between a computer and other devices, such as modems or printers, via a serial interface. It is called "universal" because it is a standard protocol used across various systems, and "asynchronous" because it does not rely on a common clock signal between the sender and receiver.

Function:
The primary function of a UART is to convert parallel data from a computer into a serial data stream for transmission over a communication channel. It performs this conversion by sending data one bit at a time. The UART also handles the inverse operation, receiving serial data and converting it back into parallel data for the computer to process. It manages tasks such as start and stop bits, parity, and baud rate, which are essential for error-free data transmission.

Applications:
UARTs are widely used in various applications due to their simplicity and flexibility:
1. Embedded Systems: They are commonly found in microcontrollers for communication with sensors, displays, and other peripherals.
2. Industrial Automation: UARTs facilitate communication between industrial controllers and various devices in an automation setup.
3. Telecommunications: They are used in modems for data transmission over telephone lines.
4. Computer Peripherals: UARTs enable serial communication with devices like printers, mice, and keyboards.
5. IoT Devices: In the Internet of Things, UARTs are used for low-speed data communication between devices.

Selection Criteria:
When choosing a UART for a specific application, consider the following criteria:
1. Baud Rate: The speed at which data is transmitted, measured in bits per second (bps).
2. Data Bits: The number of bits in each data frame, typically 8 or 9.
3. Parity: A method for error detection, which can be none, odd, or even.
4. Stop Bits: The number of bits used to mark the end of a data frame, usually 1 or 2.
5. Flow Control: Techniques to manage data flow, such as hardware or software flow control.
6. Interface Standards: Compatibility with industry-standard interfaces like RS-232, RS-485, or USB-to-UART converters.
7. Power Consumption: Important for battery-operated devices or systems with power constraints.
8. Environmental Factors: Consideration of temperature, humidity, and electromagnetic interference for robustness in harsh environments.

In summary, UARTs are essential for serial communication in a wide range of applications, and their selection should be based on the specific requirements of the system in which they are to be used.
Please refer to the product rule book for details.