The Intersil ISL81485 is a BiCMOS, 5V powered, single transceiver that meets both the RS-485 and RS-422 standards for balanced communication, and features a larger output voltage and higher data rate to benefit high speed applications. Unlike competitive devices, this Intersil transceiver is specified for 10% tolerance supplies (4. 5V to 5. 5V), and it delivers a much larger worst case differential output voltage (2. 0V compared to the typical 1. 5V) over the full supply range. The increased output voltage translates into longer reach, or better data integrity, at the 30Mbps data rate. This device presents a 1 unit load to the RS-485 bus, which allows up to 32 transceivers on the network. Receiver (Rx) inputs feature a fail-safe if open design, which ensures a logic high Rx output if Rx inputs are floating. Driver (Tx) outputs are short circuit protected, even for voltages exceeding the power supply voltage. Additionally, on-chip thermal shutdown circuitry disables the Tx outputs to prevent damage if power dissipation becomes excessive.