MAX218EAP RS232 Transceiver Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX218EAP is a 2/2 full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 20-SSOP surface mount package. This interface IC operates across a supply voltage range of 1.8V to 4.25V and supports data rates up to 120 Kbps with a receiver hysteresis of 100 mV. The MAX218EAP is classified as obsolete, making identification of functionally equivalent alternatives essential for ongoing system support, maintenance, and new design implementations where legacy compatibility is required.

Substiute Parts

MAX218EAP

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2240MAX218EAP Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX218EAP+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 1720MAX218EAP+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MAX218EAP is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Protocol specification: RS232
• Channel configuration: 2 drivers and 2 receivers (2/2)
• Duplex mode: Full-duplex operation
• Data rate capability: 120 Kbps minimum
• Supply voltage range: 1.8V ~ 4.25V
• Receiver hysteresis: 100 mV
• Operating temperature range: -40°C ~ 85°C
• Package type: 20-SSOP with identical physical dimensions (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
• Mounting technology: Surface mount

The MAX218EAP+ meets all these parameters and qualifies as a parametric equivalent substitute. The primary distinction between these parts is product status and compliance certification, not electrical or mechanical characteristics.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MAX218EAP+ is the direct parametric equivalent for the obsolete MAX218EAP. Both parts share identical electrical specifications, pin configurations, and physical package dimensions, ensuring drop-in compatibility at the circuit board level.

Selection between these parts is determined by application requirements and regulatory compliance:

• For new designs or systems requiring RoHS3 compliance, the MAX218EAP+ is the appropriate choice, as it meets current environmental and material restriction standards.
• For legacy system maintenance where existing inventory of MAX218EAP units is available, continued use is electrically valid.
• The MAX218EAP+ is currently in active production status with confirmed inventory availability, whereas the MAX218EAP is obsolete with limited remaining stock.

Both parts carry identical ECCN (EAR99) and HTSUS (8542.39.0001) classifications, indicating equivalent export and tariff treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the MAX218EAP+ be used as a direct replacement for the MAX218EAP?

A: Yes. The MAX218EAP+ is a parametric equivalent with identical electrical specifications, pin assignments, and 20-SSOP package dimensions. No circuit modifications are required for substitution.

Q: What is the primary difference between MAX218EAP and MAX218EAP+?

A: The MAX218EAP+ is the active production variant with ROHS3 compliance certification. The MAX218EAP is classified as obsolete and does not meet current RoHS3 standards. Electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Are there any compatibility concerns with the 20-SSOP package?

A: No. Both parts use the identical 20-SSOP package with 0.209" width and 5.30mm dimensions. PCB footprints, solder reflow profiles, and assembly processes are interchangeable.

Q: What supply voltage range do these transceivers support?

A: Both the MAX218EAP and MAX218EAP+ operate across 1.8V to 4.25V supply voltage range, supporting low-power and standard logic level applications.

Q: Is the MAX218EAP+ suitable for industrial temperature applications?

A: Yes. The MAX218EAP+ maintains full operational specifications across the -40°C to 85°C temperature range, meeting industrial and extended temperature requirements.

Q: What data rate capability should be expected from these RS232 transceivers?

A: Both parts support RS232 communication at data rates up to 120 Kbps with 2 drivers and 2 receivers in full-duplex configuration.