SP233ECT-L RS232 Transceiver - Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SP233ECT-L is a full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by MaxLinear, Inc., designed for serial communication applications requiring 2 drivers and 2 receivers in a compact 20-SOIC surface mount package. This device is discontinued at DiGi Electronics, making identification of equivalent substitute parts essential for ongoing production support, design updates, and inventory management. The part operates within a 4.5V to 5.5V supply voltage range with a maximum data rate of 240kbps and is RoHS compliant with MSL-3 moisture sensitivity rating.

Substiute Parts

SP233ECT-L

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 3608SP233ECT-L Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SP233ACT-L

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 1284SP233ACT-L Datasheet

Parametric EquivalentRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution of the SP233ECT-L is determined by strict equivalence across the following critical parameters:

• Protocol Compatibility: RS232 full-duplex transceiver functionality
• Channel Configuration: 2 drivers and 2 receivers
• Electrical Specifications: 4.5V to 5.5V supply voltage, 240kbps data rate, 500mV receiver hysteresis
• Package Compatibility: 20-SOIC surface mount package with identical pinout and mechanical dimensions
• Compliance Requirements: RoHS compliance and MSL-3 moisture sensitivity rating
• Thermal Range: 0°C to 70°C operating temperature

The SP233ACT-L meets all these criteria and is classified as a parametric equivalent substitute for the SP233ECT-L.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SP233ACT-L is a direct parametric equivalent to the SP233ECT-L. Both parts share identical electrical specifications, package geometry, and compliance certifications. Selection between these parts should be based on:

• Availability: The SP233ACT-L currently has 1,256 units in stock, while the SP233ECT-L has 3,515 units available. Inventory status may vary by supplier and time of procurement.
• Product Status: Both parts are no longer in active production (discontinued/obsolete status). Long-term availability cannot be guaranteed for either variant.
• Compliance Alignment: Both parts maintain RoHS compliance and identical MSL-3 ratings, ensuring compatibility with current manufacturing and storage requirements.
• Packaging: The SP233ACT-L is supplied in tube packaging, while the SP233ECT-L packaging specification is not detailed. Confirm packaging requirements for your assembly process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SP233ACT-L be used as a direct replacement for the SP233ECT-L in existing designs?

A: Yes. The SP233ACT-L is a parametric equivalent with identical electrical specifications, pinout, and package dimensions. No circuit modifications are required for substitution.

Q: Are there any differences in performance between these two parts?

A: No. Both parts operate at 240kbps data rate, support full-duplex RS232 communication with 2/2 driver/receiver configuration, and maintain identical supply voltage and temperature specifications.

Q: What is the significance of the product status difference (discontinued vs. obsolete)?

A: Both statuses indicate the parts are no longer manufactured. "Discontinued at DiGi Electronics" indicates removal from a specific distributor's catalog, while "Obsolete" indicates end-of-life status from the manufacturer. Neither status affects electrical compatibility.

Q: Does the packaging difference (tube vs. unspecified) affect compatibility?

A: Packaging affects handling, storage, and assembly processes but does not affect electrical or mechanical compatibility. Confirm your assembly equipment can accommodate the supplied packaging format.

Q: Are both parts suitable for new designs?

A: Both parts are obsolete or discontinued. For new designs, evaluate current-production RS232 transceiver alternatives from MaxLinear or other manufacturers that meet your electrical and package requirements.

Q: What is MSL-3 moisture sensitivity, and does it affect storage?

A: MSL-3 indicates the part must be stored in controlled humidity conditions and has a 168-hour floor life after moisture exposure. Both parts carry identical MSL-3 ratings and require equivalent storage protocols.