Part A
ADM232AARN
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 4204 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-16
- Series
- Interface - Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
Replacement verdict
Compatible functional replacement candidate
The ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW are functionally equivalent RS-232 transceivers from the same ADM232A family, sharing identical driver/receiver counts, supply voltage requirements, and data rate capabilities. The primary distinction lies in package format and operating temperature range, making the ADM232AARW a viable functional substitute for the ADM232AARN where the wider temperature specification and SOIC package are acceptable.
Driver/Receiver Count
High match
Supply Voltage
High match
Package Type
Validation required
Operating Temperature Range
Validation required
Parts at a glance
Part B
ADM232AARW
Analog Devices Inc.
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 4569 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-16
- Series
- Interface - Drivers, Receivers, Transceivers
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | ADM232AARN | ADM232AARW | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Package / Case | 16-SOIC (Narrow, 3.90mm) | 16-SOIC (Wide, 7.50mm) | Footprint and board layout differ; the wide-body version requires a larger pad pattern and cannot drop into a narrow-body footprint. |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount | Both are surface-mount, but the differing body width affects PCB land pattern and assembly clearance. |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | 2/2 | 2/2 | Identical channel count ensures the same RS-232 interface capability for the application. |
| Data Rate | 200 kbps | 200 kbps | Matching data rate confirms equivalent throughput for serial communication links. |
| Supply Voltage | 5 V (single supply) | 5 V (single supply) | Same supply requirement allows use in the same 5 V system without rail changes. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C | Identical temperature range ensures equivalent environmental robustness. |
| Protocol | RS-232 | RS-232 | Same protocol guarantees functional compatibility in RS-232 interfaces. |
| Charge Pump / Internal Capacitors | Internal charge pump, external capacitors required | Internal charge pump, external capacitors required | Same external capacitor requirement means the same supporting circuitry is needed. |
Need help validating a replacement?
Send your BOM and application constraints for technical and sourcing review.
Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | ADM232AARN | ADM232AARW |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Analog Devices Inc.,Rochester Electronics, LLC |
| Part Status | Obsolete | Obsolete |
| Type | Transceiver | Transceiver |
| Protocol | RS232 | RS232 |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | 2/2 | 2/2 |
| Duplex | Full | Full |
| Receiver Hysteresis | 400 mV | 400 mV |
| Data Rate | 200kbps | 200kbps |
| Voltage - Supply | 4.5V ~ 5.5V | 4.5V ~ 5.5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | -40°C ~ 85°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount |
Frequently asked questions
What is the primary difference between the ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW?
The primary difference is the package type: the ADM232AARN is supplied in a 16-lead narrow-body SOIC (N-16-1) package, while the ADM232AARW is supplied in a 16-lead wide-body SOIC (RW-16) package. Both are dual-channel RS-232 line drivers/receivers from Analog Devices with identical electrical functionality.
Are the ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW electrically and functionally identical?
Yes. Both devices are members of the ADM232A family and share the same datasheet specifications: dual RS-232 drivers and receivers, 5 V single-supply operation, on-chip charge pump, and data rates up to 200 kB/s. The only documented difference is the package body width and corresponding PCB land pattern.
Can the ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW be used interchangeably on the same PCB?
No, not without a layout change. The N (narrow-body) and RW (wide-body) SOIC packages have different body widths and lead spans, so the PCB land patterns are not footprint-compatible. A board designed for one package variant requires a layout revision to accept the other.
What are the package dimensions of the ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW?
The ADM232AARN uses the 16-lead narrow-body SOIC (N-16-1), approximately 3.9 mm body width, while the ADM232AARW uses the 16-lead wide-body SOIC (RW-16), approximately 7.5 mm body width. Designers should confirm exact dimensions against the Analog Devices package drawing for the specific revision.
Do both variants support the same RS-232 data rate and supply voltage?
Yes. Both the ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW operate from a single 5 V supply and support RS-232 data rates up to 200 kB/s, with the on-chip dual charge pump generating the required RS-232 voltage levels. These parameters are common to the ADM232A family and are not package-dependent.
Which variant should be selected for a new design?
Selection depends on board space and layout constraints. The ADM232AARN narrow-body SOIC is preferred where PCB area is limited, while the ADM232AARW wide-body SOIC may be chosen for layout compatibility with existing wide-body footprints or for improved handling and inspection in some assembly processes. Both offer identical electrical performance.
Are the ADM232AARN and ADM232AARW RoHS compliant?
RoHS compliance depends on the specific orderable part number and its suffix. Designers should verify the exact ordering code against the Analog Devices product page or an authorized distributor listing (such as DigiKey or Mouser) to confirm the compliance status of the specific variant being purchased.