The SN55LBC172 is a monolithic quadruple differential line driver with 3-state outputs. This device is designed to meet the requirements of the Electronics Industry Association (EIA) standard RS-485. The SN55LBC172 is optimized for balanced multipoint bus transmission at data rates up to and exceeding 10 million bits per second. The driver features wide positive and negative common-mode output voltage ranges, current limiting, and thermal-shutdown circuitry, making it suitable for party-line applications in noisy environments. The device is designed using the LinBiCMOS process, facilitating ultralow power consumption and inherent robustness.