MAX250ESD RS232 Transceiver Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX250ESD is a 2/2 full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, housed in a 14-SOIC surface mount package. This component is classified as obsolete, though 3900 units remain in stock as new original inventory. RS232 transceivers like the MAX250ESD serve as interface components for serial communication applications requiring bidirectional data transmission with full duplex capability. Due to its obsolete status, identifying equivalent and substitute parts is essential for ongoing system support, design updates, and long-term component availability planning.

Substiute Parts

MAX250ESD

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 3915MAX250ESD Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX250ESD+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 3314MAX250ESD+ Datasheet

DirectRFQ

MAX251ESD+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 959MAX251ESD+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the MAX250ESD is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Protocol: RS232
• Number of Drivers/Receivers: 2/2
• Duplex Mode: Full
• Receiver Hysteresis: 600 mV
• Supply Voltage Range: 4.5V ~ 5.5V
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C ~ 85°C
• Package / Case: 14-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount

Two substitute parts meet these criteria:

1. MAX250ESD+ — Direct manufacturer equivalent with identical electrical and mechanical specifications. Differs only in product status (Active vs. Obsolete) and RoHS compliance (ROHS3 Compliant vs. non-compliant).

2. MAX251ESD+ — Parametric equivalent sharing all electrical specifications and package form factor. Base product number differs (MAX251 vs. MAX250), but functional parameters remain identical for RS232 2/2 full-duplex transceiver operation.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MAX250ESD+ (Direct Substitute) is the primary replacement for MAX250ESD applications. It maintains identical electrical and mechanical specifications while offering active product status and ROHS3 compliance. This part is suitable for new designs and system updates where regulatory compliance is required.

MAX251ESD+ (Parametric Equivalent) provides functional equivalence for RS232 2/2 full-duplex transceiver requirements. While the base product number differs, all critical electrical parameters and package specifications align with MAX250ESD. This part is appropriate where component availability or compliance requirements necessitate an alternative within the MAX251 product line.

Both substitute parts are manufactured by the same supplier (Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated), ensuring consistency in quality and technical support. Selection between MAX250ESD+ and MAX251ESD+ depends on design constraints, inventory availability, and compliance requirements specific to the application.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX250ESD+ be used as a direct replacement for MAX250ESD?

A: Yes. MAX250ESD+ is electrically and mechanically identical to MAX250ESD. Both are 2/2 full-duplex RS232 transceivers in 14-SOIC packages with identical supply voltage (4.5V ~ 5.5V), operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C), and receiver hysteresis (600 mV). The primary differences are product status (Active vs. Obsolete) and RoHS compliance (ROHS3 vs. non-compliant).

Q: What is the difference between MAX250ESD+ and MAX251ESD+?

A: Both parts are parametric equivalents sharing identical RS232 2/2 full-duplex transceiver specifications, supply voltage, operating temperature, and 14-SOIC package form factor. The base product number differs (MAX250 vs. MAX251), but this does not affect functional compatibility for applications requiring these electrical and mechanical parameters.

Q: Are all three parts pin-compatible?

A: Yes. MAX250ESD, MAX250ESD+, and MAX251ESD+ all use the 14-SOIC package with identical pinout and electrical specifications, ensuring direct PCB compatibility without layout modifications.

Q: Does the packaging difference (Bulk vs. Tube) affect component performance?

A: No. Packaging format (Bulk for MAX250ESD, Tube for MAX250ESD+ and MAX251ESD+) affects handling, storage, and supply chain logistics but does not alter electrical performance or functional characteristics.

Q: Which substitute part should be selected for new designs?

A: MAX250ESD+ is recommended for new designs due to its active product status and ROHS3 compliance. MAX251ESD+ is an alternative where MAX250ESD+ availability is constrained or where design specifications explicitly require the MAX251 product line.

Q: Are there any compliance or regulatory differences between these parts?

A: MAX250ESD is RoHS non-compliant, while both MAX250ESD+ and MAX251ESD+ are ROHS3 compliant. All three parts are REACH Unaffected and classified under ECCN EAR99. For applications subject to RoHS regulations, MAX250ESD+ or MAX251ESD+ must be selected.