SP3221ECA-L Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SP3221ECA-L is a 1/1 RS232 transceiver IC manufactured by MaxLinear, Inc., housed in a 16-SSOP surface mount package. This component functions as a single-channel RS232 interface device, converting between RS232 logic levels and standard digital logic levels. The part is currently classified as obsolete, which necessitates identification of active equivalent alternatives to maintain design continuity and ensure long-term component availability for production and maintenance applications.

Substiute Parts

SP3221ECA-L

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 816SP3221ECA-L Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SP3221EEA-L/TR

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 1859SP3221EEA-L/TR Datasheet

DirectRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

The SP3221ECA-L can be substituted with the SP3221EEA-L/TR based on the following electrical and mechanical compatibility criteria:

Critical Matching Parameters:

• Protocol: RS232 (identical)
• Number of Drivers/Receivers: 1/1 (identical)
• Data Rate: 250 kbps (identical)
• Voltage - Supply: 3V ~ 5.5V (identical)
• Receiver Hysteresis: 300 mV (identical)
• Package / Case: 16-SSOP (0.209", 5.30mm Width) (identical)
• Mounting Type: Surface Mount (identical)
• Moisture Sensitivity Level: 2 (1 Year) (identical)

The SP3221EEA-L/TR represents the active production equivalent from the same manufacturer, differing only in packaging format (Tape & Reel versus individual packaging) and extended operating temperature range, which provides broader environmental compatibility without compromising the original design specifications.

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

The SP3221EEA-L/TR is the appropriate substitute for the obsolete SP3221ECA-L. This selection is based on:

• Electrical Equivalence: All critical electrical parameters including protocol, driver/receiver configuration, data rate, supply voltage range, and receiver hysteresis are identical.
• Mechanical Compatibility: Both parts utilize the identical 16-SSOP package with matching physical dimensions, ensuring direct PCB footprint compatibility.
• Active Product Status: The SP3221EEA-L/TR maintains active production status, ensuring long-term availability and supply chain reliability.
• Enhanced Environmental Range: The substitute part extends the operating temperature range to -40°C ~ 85°C, providing superior performance in wider environmental conditions.
• Regulatory Compliance: The SP3221EEA-L/TR carries RoHS Compliant certification, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the SP3221EEA-L/TR be used as a direct replacement for the SP3221ECA-L in existing designs?

A: Yes. The SP3221EEA-L/TR is electrically and mechanically equivalent to the SP3221ECA-L. Both parts share identical RS232 protocol implementation, 1/1 driver/receiver configuration, 250 kbps data rate, 3V ~ 5.5V supply voltage range, and 16-SSOP package dimensions. No circuit modifications are required.

Q: What is the difference between the SP3221ECA-L and SP3221EEA-L/TR?

A: The primary differences are product status and packaging format. The SP3221ECA-L is obsolete and supplied in individual packaging, while the SP3221EEA-L/TR is an active product supplied in Tape & Reel format. Additionally, the SP3221EEA-L/TR features an extended operating temperature range (-40°C ~ 85°C versus 0°C ~ 70°C) and carries RoHS Compliant certification.

Q: Does the extended operating temperature range of the SP3221EEA-L/TR affect compatibility?

A: No. The extended temperature range of the SP3221EEA-L/TR (-40°C ~ 85°C) encompasses the original operating range (0°C ~ 70°C). This enhancement provides greater environmental flexibility without introducing any compatibility issues.

Q: What does the "TR" designation in SP3221EEA-L/TR indicate?

A: The "TR" designation indicates Tape & Reel packaging format, which is the standard supply method for high-volume production. This packaging format is compatible with automated assembly equipment and does not affect the electrical or mechanical characteristics of the component.

Q: Is the SP3221EEA-L/TR RoHS compliant?

A: Yes. The SP3221EEA-L/TR is RoHS Compliant, meeting current environmental and regulatory requirements for electronic components in the European Union and other jurisdictions with similar regulations.