MAX208EENG+ Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX208EENG+ is a 4/4 RS232 transceiver with full-duplex capability, manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. This interface IC operates across the 4.5V to 5.5V supply range and supports data rates up to 120 Kbps. The device is packaged in a 24-pin DIP configuration suitable for through-hole mounting applications.

The MAX208EENG+ has reached obsolete product status. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts ensures design continuity and maintains supply chain reliability for applications requiring RS232 transceiver functionality with identical or compatible electrical and mechanical specifications.

Substiute Parts

MAX208EENG+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2087MAX208EENG+ Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX236ENG+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2196MAX236ENG+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

MAX238ENG+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2482MAX238ENG+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MAX208EENG+ are identified based on strict parameter matching across the following critical criteria:

Electrical Compatibility:

• RS232 protocol implementation
• Full-duplex transceiver operation
• 500 mV receiver hysteresis
• 120 Kbps data rate capability
• 4.5V to 5.5V supply voltage range
• -40°C to 85°C operating temperature range

Mechanical Compatibility:

• 24-pin DIP package (0.300", 7.62mm)
• Through-hole mounting configuration
• 24-PDIP supplier device package

Regulatory & Compliance:

• ROHS3 compliance
• REACH unaffected status
• MSL 1 rating

The MAX236ENG+ and MAX238ENG+ meet these substitution criteria with the following distinction: MAX236ENG+ provides 4/3 driver/receiver configuration, while MAX238ENG+ maintains the 4/4 configuration identical to the original part.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MAX238ENG+ (Preferred Substitute)

The MAX238ENG+ is the direct functional equivalent to the MAX208EENG+. Both devices implement 4/4 driver/receiver configuration with identical electrical specifications, operating parameters, and package geometry. The MAX238ENG+ maintains active product status with current manufacturing support, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain stability. All regulatory certifications (ROHS3, REACH unaffected) and compliance ratings match the original specification.

MAX236ENG+ (Alternative Substitute)

The MAX236ENG+ provides a reduced-channel alternative with 4/3 driver/receiver configuration. This part is suitable for applications where the fourth receiver channel is not required. The MAX236ENG+ shares identical electrical performance, supply voltage range, operating temperature range, data rate capability, and package specifications. Active product status ensures continued availability.

Both substitute parts are manufactured by the same supplier (Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated) and carry equivalent regulatory compliance certifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX236ENG+ replace MAX208EENG+ in all applications?

A: The MAX236ENG+ is suitable for applications that do not require all four receiver channels. The 4/3 configuration provides four drivers and three receivers, compared to the MAX208EENG+ configuration of four drivers and four receivers. Verify your application's receiver channel requirements before substitution.

Q: What is the primary advantage of selecting MAX238ENG+ over MAX236ENG+?

A: The MAX238ENG+ maintains identical 4/4 driver/receiver channel configuration as the MAX208EENG+. If your application utilizes all four receiver channels, MAX238ENG+ provides direct functional equivalence without circuit modification.

Q: Are the substitute parts pin-compatible with MAX208EENG+?

A: Both MAX236ENG+ and MAX238ENG+ use the 24-pin DIP package with identical 0.300" (7.62mm) spacing. Physical pin compatibility is maintained for through-hole mounting applications.

Q: Do the substitute parts meet the same regulatory requirements?

A: Yes. Both MAX236ENG+ and MAX238ENG+ carry ROHS3 compliance, REACH unaffected status, and MSL 1 rating, matching the regulatory profile of the MAX208EENG+.

Q: What is the operational difference between the substitute parts?

A: Both substitute parts operate at identical supply voltage (4.5V ~ 5.5V), data rate (120 Kbps), receiver hysteresis (500 mV), and temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C). The only functional difference is the number of receiver channels: MAX238ENG+ provides four receivers (matching MAX208EENG+), while MAX236ENG+ provides three receivers.

Q: Why is MAX208EENG+ listed as obsolete?

A: The MAX208EENG+ has reached end-of-life status. Active substitute parts (MAX236ENG+ and MAX238ENG+) are available from the same manufacturer to support ongoing design requirements and production needs.