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MAX485ESA+T

MAX485ESA+T

Analog Devices (Maxim)
A widely used, low-power RS-485/RS-422 transceiver available in SOIC-8; good general-purpose alternative if you need broad distributor availability.
NRND15,088 in stock
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Overview

MAX485ESA+T is a low-power, half-duplex RS-485/RS-422 transceiver in an 8-SOIC package. It provides one driver and one receiver, operates from a 4.75V to 5.25V supply, and supports data rates up to 2.5 Mbps. The device includes a 70 mV receiver hysteresis and is specified for -40 to +85 C operation, making it suitable for standard industrial and embedded serial links.

Why Choose This Part

Practical reasons to choose this part include its broad distributor availability and common SOIC-8 packaging, which simplifies prototyping and PCB assembly. It runs from a standard 5 V rail and supports up to 2.5 Mbps for many legacy and modern serial protocols. The 70 mV receiver hysteresis and industrial temperature rating help ensure reliable bus idle/failsafe behavior in noisy environments.

Applications

Multi-drop industrial networks
Use on Modbus RTU, BACnet MS/TP, and other multi-drop RS-485 buses for sensors, controllers, and PLC I/O.
Point-to-point long-distance serial links
Drive differential pairs for reliable UART-style communication over tens to hundreds of meters.
Building automation and HVAC
Interface actuators, thermostats, and controllers that require robust half-duplex serial communication.
Embedded UART interface protection
Add as an isolated or board-level transceiver between a microcontroller UART and a harsh external bus.
Serial repeater/interface modules
Use in small interface boards or gateways that bridge UARTs to RS-485/RS-422 networks.

Key Specifications

Type Transceiver
Duplex Half
Protocol RS422, RS485
Data Rate 2.5Mbps
Mounting Type Surface Mount
Package / Case 8-SOIC (0.154", 3.90mm Width)
Voltage - Supply 4.75V ~ 5.25V
Receiver Hysteresis 70 mV
Operating Temperature -40degC ~ 85degC
Supplier Device Package 8-SOIC
Number of Drivers/Receivers 1/1

Getting Started

Connect the transceiver between your MCU UART TX/RX and the differential A/B bus; control transmit/receive direction with the DE and /RE pins (tie /RE and DE together for simple half-duplex control). Add a 120 ohm termination resistor at each end of the bus and implement biasing resistors or fail-safe pull resistors if the bus can be left idle. For breadboarding, use an SOIC-8 to DIP adapter or a small breakout board and verify bus wiring and termination before powering multiple nodes.

Also Consider

SN75176B TITexas Instruments - A low-cost, widely used half-duplex RS-485/RS-422 transceiver in SOIC-8 with similar functionality and broad availability.
ADM485 Analog Devices - Pin- and function-compatible 5 V transceiver option from Analog Devices that is commonly used as an alternative in existing designs.
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