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 a 4.5V to 5.5V supply range and supports data rates up to 120 Kbps. The device is packaged in a 24-pin DIP format suitable for through-hole mounting applications.

The MAX208EENG is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain reliability, and support legacy system maintenance or redesign initiatives.

Substiute Parts

MAX208EENG

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2102MAX208EENG 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 electrical and mechanical compatibility criteria. The following parameters determine valid substitution:

• RS232 protocol compliance
• Full-duplex transceiver architecture
• 24-pin DIP package format (0.300", 7.62mm)
• Through-hole mounting capability
• Supply voltage range: 4.5V ~ 5.5V
• Operating temperature range: -40°C ~ 85°C
• Receiver hysteresis: 500 mV
• Data rate support: 120 Kbps minimum

The MAX208EENG specifies 4/4 driver/receiver configuration (4 drivers, 4 receivers). Substitute parts are grouped as follows:

• Full Equivalents (4/4 Configuration): Parts maintaining identical driver/receiver count
• Functional Equivalents (4/3 Configuration): Parts with reduced receiver count but compatible electrical and mechanical specifications

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MAX238ENG+ is the primary substitute for MAX208EENG. Both parts maintain identical 4/4 driver/receiver configuration and electrical specifications. The MAX238ENG+ is currently in active production status with ROHS3 compliance, providing improved regulatory alignment compared to the obsolete, non-compliant MAX208EENG. This part is recommended for direct replacement in new designs and legacy system updates.

MAX236ENG+ is a functional equivalent with reduced receiver count (4/3 configuration). This part is suitable for applications where only three receiver channels are required. The MAX236ENG+ is also in active production with ROHS3 compliance. Selection of this part requires verification that the application circuit does not depend on the fourth receiver channel.

Both substitute parts share identical electrical parameters, package format, and thermal operating range with the MAX208EENG, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility in 24-pin DIP through-hole applications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX238ENG+ directly replace MAX208EENG in existing designs?

A: Yes. The MAX238ENG+ maintains identical driver/receiver count (4/4), electrical specifications, supply voltage range (4.5V ~ 5.5V), operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C), and 24-pin DIP package format. No circuit modifications are required for direct substitution.

Q: What is the difference between MAX238ENG+ and MAX236ENG+?

A: The primary difference is driver/receiver configuration. MAX238ENG+ provides 4 drivers and 4 receivers (matching MAX208EENG). MAX236ENG+ provides 4 drivers and 3 receivers. Both parts are electrically and mechanically compatible with MAX208EENG in all other parameters. Selection depends on whether the application requires four independent receiver channels.

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

A: Both substitute parts use the 24-pin DIP package format (0.300", 7.62mm). Pin compatibility must be verified against specific application schematics, as receiver channel reduction in MAX236ENG+ may affect pin assignments.

Q: What is the significance of RoHS compliance status?

A: MAX208EENG is RoHS non-compliant. Both MAX238ENG+ and MAX236ENG+ are ROHS3 compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for component manufacturing and use in regulated markets.

Q: Are all three parts suitable for the same operating temperature range?

A: Yes. All three parts operate across -40°C to 85°C, ensuring thermal compatibility in equivalent applications.

Q: What packaging options are available for the substitute parts?

A: MAX238ENG+ and MAX236ENG+ are supplied in tube packaging. Both maintain the 24-PDIP supplier device package format compatible with through-hole assembly processes.