Re: [EE] RS232 protection

Low Voltage / Current limited supply to a ESP32 or similar. Voltage divider
for the RS232 signal.  - then isolate via Wifi or BT connection.?

RP


On Tue, 10 Feb 2026 at 06:49, Denny Esterline <[email protected]> wrote:

>
> https://www.serialcomm.com/serial_rs232_converters/opto_isolated_and_surge_suppressors/rs232_isolator/rs232_3_wire.product_general_info.aspx
> under $30 us.
>
>
> On Mon, Feb 9, 2026 at 9:46 AM Neil <[email protected]> wrote:
>
> > Hi all,
> >
> > I'm reading data from a very expensive device in a vehicle over RS232,
> > using a MAX3232 chip.
> > Just reading, so only one data line and +12V/Gnd coming from the
> > vehicle's power outlet.
> > Out of an abundance of caution, I would like to do anything extra I can
> > to help protect the expensive device from anything that could go wrong
> > with my add-on. Even shorted wires, etc.
> > I did find some (expensive) chips that help with this, specifically ESD,
> > but wondering what other in-between things I can do to just help isolate
> > my device from the one in the vehicle.
> > Suggestions welcome.
> >
> > Cheers,
> > -Neil.
> >
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