SP385ECT-L RS232 Transceiver Equivalent & Substitute Parts

Part Overview

The SP385ECT-L is a 2/2 full-duplex RS232 transceiver manufactured by MaxLinear, Inc., housed in an 18-SOIC surface mount package. This interface IC operates across a 3V to 5V supply range with a 120 kbps data rate and 500 mV receiver hysteresis. The part is classified as obsolete, making equivalent and substitute parts necessary for ongoing design support and procurement.

Substiute Parts

SP385ECT-L

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 2335SP385ECT-L Datasheet

Current PartRFQ

SP385ECA-L/TR

MaxLinear, Inc.In Stock: 3412SP385ECA-L/TR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

LTC1385CSW#PBF

Analog Devices Inc.In Stock: 2836LTC1385CSW#PBF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

LTC1385CSW#TRPBF

Analog Devices Inc.In Stock: 3532LTC1385CSW#TRPBF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

LTC1385ISW#PBF

Analog Devices Inc.In Stock: 1213LTC1385ISW#PBF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

LTC1385ISW#TRPBF

Analog Devices Inc.In Stock: 964LTC1385ISW#TRPBF Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

MAX222CDW

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 1022MAX222CDW Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

MAX222CDWR

Texas InstrumentsIn Stock: 4385MAX222CDWR Datasheet

MFR RecommendedRFQ

Key Parameters

Substitute Part Grouping Explanation

Substitution for the SP385ECT-L is determined by the following critical parameters:

• Protocol Compatibility: RS232 transceiver functionality
• Channel Configuration: 2/2 drivers and receivers, full-duplex operation
• Package Type: 18-SOIC form factor with matching pin pitch and dimensions
• Electrical Specifications: Data rate capability of 120 kbps or higher, supply voltage range compatibility, receiver hysteresis characteristics
• Operating Temperature Range: Minimum support for 0°C to 70°C
• Product Status: Active status preferred for long-term availability

Substitute parts are grouped into two categories based on these parameters:

Category 1: MaxLinear Direct Substitutes

• SP385ECA-L/TR: Same manufacturer, active status, compatible electrical specifications, alternative package format (20-SSOP)

Category 2: Analog Devices LTC1385 Series

• LTC1385CSW#PBF, LTC1385CSW#TRPBF, LTC1385ISW#PBF, LTC1385ISW#TRPBF: RS562 protocol (backward compatible with RS232), matching 2/2 configuration, 18-SOIC package, active status

Category 3: Texas Instruments MAX222 Series

• MAX222CDW, MAX222CDWR: RS232 protocol, 2/2 configuration, 18-SOIC package, obsolete status (equivalent lifecycle)

Parameter Comparison

Engineering Selection Recommendations

For Direct Pin-Compatible Replacement (18-SOIC Package)

The LTC1385 series from Analog Devices provides the most direct electrical compatibility with the SP385ECT-L. The LTC1385ISW#PBF and LTC1385ISW#TRPBF variants offer extended operating temperature range (-40°C to 85°C) compared to the original part, with active product status ensuring long-term availability. These parts maintain the 18-SOIC package footprint and support the required 2/2 transceiver configuration. RS562 protocol compatibility with RS232 applications is established through the provided substitute relationships.

For Active Product Status with Package Flexibility

The SP385ECA-L/TR from MaxLinear represents the manufacturer's active alternative, maintaining identical electrical specifications and protocol support. The transition from 18-SOIC to 20-SSOP packaging requires PCB layout modification but provides the advantage of continued manufacturer support and RoHS compliance certification.

For Obsolete Part Replacement in Legacy Systems

The MAX222CDWR from Texas Instruments matches the obsolete lifecycle status of the SP385ECT-L while maintaining RS232 protocol and 18-SOIC package compatibility. This option is suitable for applications where supply voltage can be constrained to 4.5V to 5.5V and where higher data rate capability (200 kbps) does not introduce design conflicts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the LTC1385 series replace the SP385ECT-L in existing designs without modification?

A: The LTC1385 series maintains the 18-SOIC package and 2/2 transceiver configuration. Pin-level compatibility must be verified against the specific application schematic. The RS562 protocol is backward compatible with RS232 applications based on the provided substitute relationships. Supply voltage range differs (3V to 3.6V for LTC1385 versus 3V to 5V for SP385ECT-L), requiring verification that the application operates within the narrower range.

Q: What is the difference between LTC1385CSW and LTC1385ISW variants?

A: The primary difference is operating temperature range. LTC1385CSW operates from 0°C to 70°C, matching the SP385ECT-L specification. LTC1385ISW extends the range to -40°C to 85°C, providing broader environmental support. Both maintain identical electrical performance and 18-SOIC packaging. Packaging format (tube versus tape & reel) is indicated by the suffix designation.

Q: Is the SP385ECA-L/TR a suitable replacement if PCB redesign is acceptable?

A: Yes. The SP385ECA-L/TR is the active product from the original manufacturer with identical electrical specifications and protocol support. The package change from 18-SOIC to 20-SSOP requires PCB layout modification but eliminates obsolescence risk and provides RoHS compliance certification. Inventory availability is higher (3304 units) compared to the original part.

Q: Why do the MAX222 variants show higher data rate capability?

A: The MAX222CDWR supports 200 kbps data rate compared to 120 kbps for the SP385ECT-L. This represents enhanced performance capability and does not prevent substitution in applications requiring only 120 kbps operation. The higher data rate specification ensures compatibility with existing designs without performance degradation.

Q: What packaging options are available for the LTC1385 series?

A: The LTC1385 series is available in tube packaging (LTC1385CSW#PBF, LTC1385ISW#PBF) and tape & reel packaging (LTC1385CSW#TRPBF, LTC1385ISW#TRPBF). Selection depends on procurement volume and assembly process requirements. All variants maintain the 18-SOIC package form factor.