MAX3238ECAI RS232 Transceiver Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The MAX3238ECAI is a full-duplex RS232 transceiver IC manufactured by Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated, configured with 5 drivers and 3 receivers in a 28-SSOP surface mount package. This component interfaces between RS232 serial communication lines and TTL/CMOS logic levels, supporting data rates up to 250 kbps across supply voltages of 3V to 5.5V.

The MAX3238ECAI is classified as obsolete. Identifying equivalent and substitute parts is necessary to maintain design continuity, ensure supply chain availability, and support legacy system maintenance and production requirements.

Substiute Parts

MAX3238ECAI

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 7306MAX3238ECAI Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

MAX3238ECAI+

Analog Devices Inc./Maxim IntegratedIn Stock: 25397MAX3238ECAI+ Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

MAX3238CDBR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 76019MAX3238CDBR Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitute parts for the MAX3238ECAI are identified based on strict parameter matching across the following critical electrical and mechanical specifications:

• Protocol: RS232
• Number of Drivers/Receivers: 5/3 configuration
• Duplex: Full-duplex operation
• Data Rate: 250 kbps
• Supply Voltage Range: 3V ~ 5.5V
• Operating Temperature: 0°C ~ 70°C
• Package / Case: 28-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width)
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount

Substitutes are grouped into two categories:

Parametric Equivalent: Parts that match all critical electrical parameters and package specifications, with potential variations in secondary parameters such as receiver hysteresis or compliance certifications.

Direct Manufacturer Equivalent: Parts from alternative manufacturers that maintain full electrical and mechanical compatibility while meeting the same functional requirements.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

MAX3238ECAI+ (Parametric Equivalent): This part is the direct successor from the original manufacturer, Analog Devices Inc./Maxim Integrated. It maintains identical electrical specifications and package configuration as the obsolete MAX3238ECAI. The MAX3238ECAI+ carries Active product status and is ROHS3 compliant, making it suitable for new production and legacy system support where regulatory compliance is required. Inventory availability is substantial at 25,300 pieces.

MAX3238CDBR (Direct Equivalent): This Texas Instruments part provides full functional equivalence with identical driver/receiver configuration, data rate, supply voltage range, and package specifications. The MAX3238CDBR is Active and ROHS3 compliant. The receiver hysteresis specification differs at 300 mV compared to the 600 mV of the original part; this represents a tighter input threshold specification suitable for applications requiring enhanced noise immunity margins. Inventory availability is high at 75,940 pieces, supporting both immediate and sustained production requirements.

Both substitute parts are suitable for direct pin-compatible replacement in applications currently using the MAX3238ECAI, with selection based on manufacturer preference, inventory availability, and specific application requirements regarding receiver hysteresis performance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can MAX3238ECAI+ be used as a direct replacement for MAX3238ECAI? A: Yes. The MAX3238ECAI+ maintains identical electrical parameters, package configuration, and pin compatibility. The primary difference is product status (Active vs. Obsolete) and RoHS compliance certification.

Q: What is the significance of the receiver hysteresis difference between MAX3238ECAI and MAX3238CDBR? A: Receiver hysteresis determines the input threshold window for RS232 signal detection. The MAX3238CDBR specifies 300 mV hysteresis compared to 600 mV in the original part. Both values are within RS232 specification tolerances. The tighter 300 mV specification in the MAX3238CDBR provides enhanced noise discrimination for marginal signal conditions.

Q: Are all substitute parts in the same 28-SSOP package? A: Yes. All listed parts use the 28-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width) surface mount package, ensuring mechanical and electrical compatibility without PCB redesign.

Q: What is the difference between parametric equivalent and direct equivalent classifications? A: Parametric equivalents match all critical electrical specifications from the original manufacturer. Direct equivalents are sourced from alternative manufacturers but maintain full functional and mechanical compatibility. Both categories support direct replacement.

Q: Are the substitute parts RoHS compliant? A: Yes. Both MAX3238ECAI+ and MAX3238CDBR are ROHS3 compliant, whereas the original MAX3238ECAI is RoHS non-compliant. This compliance status is relevant for applications subject to environmental and regulatory requirements.

Q: What supply voltage range do these parts support? A: All parts operate across 3V to 5.5V supply voltage, supporting both 3.3V and 5V logic systems without external voltage regulation.