MAX243EPE RS232 Transceiver Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX243EPE is a 2/2 full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 16-pin DIP package. This interface IC is designed for serial communication applications requiring RS232 protocol compliance. The MAX243EPE is classified as obsolete, making identification of active equivalent parts essential for new designs and ongoing system support. Substitute parts must maintain identical electrical characteristics and mechanical compatibility to ensure direct replacement capability.

Substiute Parts

MAX243EPE

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 2083MAX243EPE Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX232AEPE+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 1214MAX232AEPE+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

MAX243EPE+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 1165MAX243EPE+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MAX243EPE are identified based on strict parametric equivalence across the following critical criteria:

• Protocol Compatibility: RS232 full-duplex transceiver architecture
• Channel Configuration: 2 drivers and 2 receivers (2/2 topology)
• Electrical Specifications: 4.5V ~ 5.5V supply voltage, 200 kbps data rate, 500 mV receiver hysteresis
• Thermal Range: -40°C ~ 85°C operating temperature
• Physical Package: 16-pin DIP form factor (0.300", 7.62mm pitch)
• Mounting Technology: Through-hole compatible

The following parts meet all parametric requirements for direct substitution:

1. MAX243EPE+ – Active product status variant with RoHS3 compliance
2. MAX232AEPE+ – Alternative transceiver with identical electrical and mechanical specifications, active product status with RoHS3 compliance

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For New Designs and Active System Support:

The MAX243EPE+ is the primary recommended substitute. This part maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications while offering active product status and RoHS3 compliance. The transition from bulk to tube packaging provides improved component protection during handling and storage.

Alternative Selection:

The MAX232AEPE+ provides equivalent parametric performance and is suitable where MAX243EPE+ availability is constrained. Both substitute parts deliver identical functional performance within the specified electrical and thermal operating ranges.

Compliance Consideration:

Both substitute parts carry RoHS3 compliance certification, addressing regulatory requirements that the original MAX243EPE does not meet. This compliance status is relevant for applications subject to environmental and hazardous substance restrictions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX243EPE+ directly replace MAX243EPE in existing PCB designs?

A: Yes. The MAX243EPE+ maintains identical pin configuration, electrical specifications, and 16-DIP package dimensions. No PCB modifications are required for direct substitution.

Q: What is the functional difference between MAX243EPE+ and MAX232AEPE+?

A: Both parts are functionally equivalent RS232 2/2 transceivers with identical electrical performance. The primary difference is the base product number designation (MAX243 versus MAX232), which reflects different product lines within the Maxim Integrated portfolio. Both meet all parametric requirements for substitution.

Q: Does the packaging change from bulk to tube affect compatibility?

A: No. Tube packaging is a protective shipping and storage format. The component itself remains identical. Tube packaging is standard for active products and provides improved handling protection compared to bulk packaging.

Q: Are there pin-to-pin compatibility concerns between these parts?

A: No. All three parts (MAX243EPE, MAX243EPE+, MAX232AEPE+) share identical 16-DIP pinouts and electrical interface specifications. Pin-to-pin compatibility is guaranteed.

Q: Why is the original MAX243EPE classified as obsolete?

A: Product obsolescence reflects Maxim Integrated's discontinuation of this specific part number. Active equivalents (MAX243EPE+ and MAX232AEPE+) provide continued access to this transceiver functionality with improved compliance status.

Q: Are these parts suitable for high-speed serial communication applications?

A: These parts are specified for 200 kbps data rate operation. Applications requiring higher data rates require alternative transceiver architectures outside this product family.