MAX231EWE RS232 Transceiver - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX231EWE is a 2/2 full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 16-SOIC surface mount package. This interface IC is designed for serial communication applications requiring RS232 protocol compliance with dual driver and receiver channels. The MAX231EWE is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for new designs and ongoing production support.

Substiute Parts

MAX231EWE

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2053MAX231EWE Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX231EWE+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 1082MAX231EWE+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the MAX231EWE is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Protocol: RS232
• Number of Drivers/Receivers: 2/2 configuration
• Duplex Mode: Full
• Receiver Hysteresis: 500 mV
• Data Rate: 120 Kbps minimum
• Voltage Supply Range: 5V, 7.5V ~ 13.2V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 85°C
• Package Type: 16-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width)
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount

The MAX231EWE+ qualifies as a parametric equivalent based on identical electrical specifications and mechanical compatibility. The primary distinction is product status and regulatory compliance.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The MAX231EWE+ is the direct active equivalent for the obsolete MAX231EWE. Both parts maintain identical electrical and mechanical specifications across all critical interface parameters. Selection between these parts is determined by regulatory and supply chain requirements:

• For new designs and production requiring RoHS3 compliance, the MAX231EWE+ is the appropriate selection.
• The MAX231EWE+ is currently in active production status with confirmed inventory availability.
• Both parts are pin-compatible and functionally interchangeable within the specified electrical operating parameters.
• The transition from MAX231EWE to MAX231EWE+ involves no circuit redesign or board layout modifications.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are MAX231EWE and MAX231EWE+ pin-compatible? A: Yes. Both parts use the 16-SOIC package with identical pinout and electrical characteristics. No PCB modifications are required for substitution.

Q: What is the primary difference between MAX231EWE and MAX231EWE+? A: The MAX231EWE+ is the active production variant with ROHS3 compliance, while the MAX231EWE is obsolete and RoHS non-compliant. Electrical and mechanical specifications are identical.

Q: Can MAX231EWE+ be used in applications originally designed for MAX231EWE? A: Yes. The MAX231EWE+ meets or exceeds all electrical specifications of the MAX231EWE across supply voltage, operating temperature, data rate, and RS232 protocol requirements.

Q: What packaging options are available? A: The MAX231EWE+ is supplied in Tube packaging. Both parts use the 16-SOIC (0.295", 7.50mm Width) surface mount package.

Q: Are there any compliance considerations for substitution? A: The MAX231EWE+ provides ROHS3 compliance, making it suitable for applications with regulatory compliance requirements. The original MAX231EWE does not meet current RoHS standards.