Part A
AM26C32IDR
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 6435 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-16
- Series
- Interface - Condutores, Receptores, Transceivers
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The AM26C32IDR and AM26C31CDE4 are complementary quad differential bus devices from the same RS-422/RS-485 family, but they serve opposite signal-flow roles: the AM26C32IDR is a quad differential line receiver, while the AM26C31CDE4 is a quad differential line driver. Because their core function, I/O direction, and electrical interface characteristics differ, they cannot be substituted for one another in a given socket; they are intended to be used together as a receiver/driver pair rather than as interchangeable parts.
Different device function
Different signal direction
Different output interface
Different input characteristics
Parts at a glance
Part B
AM26C31CDE4
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 6869 PCS
- Package
- SOIC-16
- Series
- Interface - Condutores, Receptores, 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 | AM26C32IDR | AM26C31CDE4 | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function | Quadruple differential line receiver | Quadruple differential line driver | A receiver and a driver serve opposite roles in a differential bus, so they are not directly interchangeable in the same socket. |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | 0 drivers / 4 receivers | 4 drivers / 0 receivers | Determines whether the device transmits or receives differential signals on the bus. |
| Output Type | 3-state (tri-state) receiver outputs | 3-state (tri-state) driver outputs | Tri-state capability allows multiple devices to share a bus, but the electrical behavior differs between driver and receiver outputs. |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 5 V nominal (4.5 V to 5.5 V) | 5 V nominal (4.5 V to 5.5 V) | Both operate from a standard 5 V rail, so power supply compatibility is maintained. |
| Data Rate | Up to 10 Mbps | Up to 10 Mbps | Confirms both support comparable signaling speeds for RS-422/RS-485 style links. |
| Package / Mounting | 16-SOIC, surface mount | 16-SOIC, surface mount | Matching package and mounting style allows use of the same PCB footprint, though pin functions differ. |
| Operating Temperature Range | -40°C to +85°C | -40°C to +85°C | Identical temperature ratings ensure comparable environmental robustness. |
| Input/Output Compatibility Standard | RS-422 / RS-485 receiver | RS-422 / RS-485 driver | Both target the same differential bus standards but occupy complementary ends of the link. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AM26C32IDR | AM26C31CDE4 |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Rochester Electronics, LLC,Texas Instruments |
| Part Status | Active | Discontinued at Digi-Key |
| Type | Receiver | Driver |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | 0/4 | 4/0 |
| Voltage - Supply | 4.5V ~ 5.5V | 4.5V ~ 5.5V |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C ~ 85°C | 0°C ~ 70°C |
| Mounting Type | Surface Mount | Surface Mount |
| Protocol | RS422, RS423 | - |
| Receiver Hysteresis | 60 mV | - |
Frequently asked questions
What are the primary functional differences between the AM26C32IDR and the AM26C31CDE4?
The AM26C32IDR is a quad differential line receiver, while the AM26C31CDE4 is a quad differential line driver. The AM26C32IDR receives differential signals and converts them to TTL/CMOS logic levels, whereas the AM26C31CDE4 accepts TTL/CMOS inputs and drives differential outputs compliant with RS-422 and RS-485 signaling standards.
Are the AM26C32IDR and AM26C31CDE4 pin-to-pin compatible?
No. Although both devices are offered in 16-pin SOIC packages, their pin functions differ because one is a receiver and the other is a driver. The AM26C32IDR provides receiver outputs and enable controls, while the AM26C31CDE4 provides driver inputs and enable controls, so they cannot be interchanged on the same PCB footprint without redesign.
What supply voltage do the AM26C32IDR and AM26C31CDE4 require?
Both devices operate from a single 5 V nominal supply. The AM26C32IDR is specified for a 5 V supply with a typical operating range of 4.5 V to 5.5 V, and the AM26C31CDE4 is likewise specified for 5 V operation with a comparable supply range, per the respective Texas Instruments datasheets.
Can the AM26C32IDR and AM26C31CDE4 be used together in a differential communication link?
Yes. The AM26C31CDE4 driver and AM26C32IDR receiver are complementary devices designed for balanced differential data transmission. The driver transmits RS-422/RS-485 compliant differential signals over a twisted-pair cable, and the receiver converts those differential signals back to logic levels at the receiving end.
What are the package and operating temperature differences between the two parts?
The AM26C32IDR is supplied in a 16-pin SOIC package with an industrial temperature range of -40 °C to +85 °C. The AM26C31CDE4 is supplied in a 16-pin SOIC package with a commercial temperature range of 0 °C to +70 °C. The differing temperature grades should be considered when selecting parts for a given environment.
Do both devices support tri-state outputs for bus sharing?
Yes. The AM26C32IDR receiver provides tri-state outputs controlled by enable pins, allowing multiple receivers to share a common bus. The AM26C31CDE4 driver provides tri-state differential outputs controlled by enable pins, permitting multiple drivers to be multiplexed onto a shared transmission line.
What data rates and signaling standards do the AM26C32IDR and AM26C31CDE4 support?
Both devices are designed for RS-422 and RS-485 balanced differential signaling. The AM26C31CDE4 driver supports data rates up to approximately 10 Mbps, and the AM26C32IDR receiver is specified for comparable data rates, making the pair suitable for moderate-speed industrial serial communication links.