MAX238ENG RS232 Transceiver Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX238ENG is a 4/4 full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 24-pin DIP package. This component is classified as obsolete, though 1940 units remain available in new original stock. RS232 transceivers like the MAX238ENG serve as interface components for serial communication applications, converting between TTL/CMOS logic levels and RS232 signal levels. Due to its obsolete status, identifying active equivalent parts is essential for ongoing production support and system redesigns.

Substiute Parts

MAX238ENG

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2046MAX238ENG 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

Substitution eligibility for RS232 transceiver components is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Driver/Receiver Configuration: The number of independent drivers and receivers must match or exceed the original design requirements
• Protocol Compliance: RS232 protocol adherence is mandatory
• Electrical Specifications: Supply voltage range, data rate capability, and receiver hysteresis must be compatible
• Package and Mounting: Physical form factor and through-hole mounting must be identical
• Operating Temperature Range: Must encompass the original specification
• Duplex Mode: Full-duplex operation must be maintained

Based on these criteria, two substitute parts are identified:

MAX238ENG+ (Parametric Equivalent - Direct Replacement): Identical 4/4 driver/receiver configuration with matching electrical and physical specifications. Active product status with RoHS3 compliance.

MAX236ENG+ (Functional Equivalent - Reduced Receiver Count): Features 4/3 driver/receiver configuration (4 drivers, 3 receivers). Suitable only where application design permits reduced receiver channels. Active product status with RoHS3 compliance.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MAX238ENG+ is the primary substitute for direct replacement of MAX238ENG. This part maintains identical electrical and physical specifications while offering active product status and RoHS3 compliance, eliminating regulatory and supply chain risks associated with the obsolete original component.

MAX236ENG+ is a functional alternative where application architecture permits operation with three receiver channels instead of four. This part is suitable for designs where the fourth receiver channel is not utilized or can be redesigned. RoHS3 compliance and active status apply equally to this option.

Both substitute parts share identical supply voltage ranges, data rate capabilities, operating temperature specifications, and package form factors with the original MAX238ENG, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility within their respective driver/receiver configurations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX238ENG+ be used as a direct drop-in replacement for MAX238ENG?

A: Yes. MAX238ENG+ maintains identical electrical specifications, driver/receiver configuration (4/4), package type (24-DIP), and operating parameters. No circuit redesign is required.

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

A: The MAX236ENG+ provides 4 drivers and 3 receivers, compared to the 4/4 configuration of MAX238ENG+. Selection depends on whether your application requires all four receiver channels. All other electrical and physical parameters remain identical.

Q: Are both substitute parts compatible with existing PCB layouts designed for MAX238ENG?

A: Yes. Both MAX238ENG+ and MAX236ENG+ use the identical 24-DIP (0.300", 7.62mm) through-hole package, ensuring physical compatibility with existing board designs. Electrical compatibility depends on the driver/receiver channel requirements of your specific application.

Q: What compliance advantages do the substitute parts offer?

A: Both MAX238ENG+ and MAX236ENG+ are RoHS3 compliant, whereas the original MAX238ENG is RoHS non-compliant. This eliminates regulatory compliance issues for new production runs and system redesigns.

Q: Are there any supply voltage or operating temperature limitations when substituting?

A: No. Both substitute parts maintain the identical 4.5V to 5.5V supply voltage range and -40°C to 85°C operating temperature specification as the original MAX238ENG.

Q: How do I determine which substitute part is appropriate for my application?

A: If your circuit design uses all four receiver channels of the original MAX238ENG, select MAX238ENG+. If your design uses only three receiver channels or can be modified to use three, MAX236ENG+ is a valid alternative. Both parts are electrically and mechanically compatible with the original package footprint.