Part A
AM26LS31CN
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 3184 PCS
- Series
- Interface - Condutores, Receptores, Transceivers
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN are not interchangeable despite sharing the same quad differential bus interface family and 16-pin DIP footprint. The AM26LS32ACN is a quad differential line receiver, while the AM26LS31CN is a quad differential line driver, so their signal direction, input/output architecture, and application roles are fundamentally different. Direct substitution is not possible without redesigning the interface around the opposite function.
Different device function
Different signal direction
Different input/output architecture
Different application role
Parts at a glance
Part B
AM26LS32ACN
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 5299 PCS
- Package
- PDIP-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 | AM26LS32ACN | AM26LS31CN | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function | Quadruple differential line receiver | Quadruple differential line driver | Receiver vs. driver determines signal direction; they are complementary, not direct substitutes. |
| Number of Drivers | 0 | 4 | A driver is required to transmit differential signals onto a bus; the receiver has none. |
| Number of Receivers | 4 | 0 | A receiver is required to accept differential signals from a bus; the driver has none. |
| Output Type | 3-state (tri-state) outputs | 3-state (tri-state) outputs | Tri-state outputs allow bus sharing; both support it but in opposite signal directions. |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 5 V (4.75 V to 5.25 V) | 5 V (4.75 V to 5.25 V) | Both operate from a standard 5 V logic supply, simplifying power design. |
| Input/Output Compatibility Standard | RS-422 / RS-423 / RS-485 receiver compatible | RS-422 / RS-423 driver compatible | Determines which serial interface standards the device can be used with. |
| Package | 16-pin PDIP (N) | 16-pin PDIP (N) | Same package footprint allows board-level interchangeability of the physical part. |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to 70°C | 0°C to 70°C | Commercial temperature range suits indoor/consumer applications; identical for both. |
| Input Sensitivity / Output Drive | ±200 mV input sensitivity | ±60 mA output drive (typical) | Receiver sensitivity vs. driver current capability reflects their opposite roles in a link. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AM26LS31CN | AM26LS32ACN |
|---|---|---|
| Part Status | Active | Active |
| Base Product Number | AM26LS31 | - |
| Type | Driver | Receiver |
| Protocol | RS422, RS485 | RS422, RS423 |
| Number of Drivers / Receivers | 4/0 | - |
| Voltage - Supply | 4.75V ~ 5.25V | 4.75V ~ 5.25V |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C ~ 70°C | 0°C ~ 70°C |
| Mounting Type | Through Hole | Through Hole |
| Packaging | Tube | - |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | - | 0/4 |
| Receiver Hysteresis | - | 50 mV |
Frequently asked questions
What are the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN?
The AM26LS32ACN is a quad differential line receiver, and the AM26LS31CN is a quad differential line driver. Both are members of the AM26LS32A/AM26LS31 family of RS-422/RS-485 interface devices from Texas Instruments, housed in 16-pin DIP packages (N suffix).
Can the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN be used together in a system?
Yes. The AM26LS31CN driver and AM26LS32ACN receiver are designed to operate together on balanced differential transmission lines. The driver generates differential outputs that the receiver accepts, forming a complete RS-422/RS-485 communication link.
What is the difference in function between the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN?
The AM26LS31CN is a line driver that converts single-ended logic inputs into differential outputs for transmission. The AM26LS32ACN is a line receiver that converts differential inputs back into single-ended logic outputs. They perform complementary transmit and receive functions.
Are the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN pin-compatible?
No. Although both use a 16-pin DIP package, their pin functions differ because one is a driver and the other is a receiver. The AM26LS31CN has driver inputs, enable pins, and differential outputs, while the AM26LS32ACN has differential inputs, enable pins, and receiver outputs. They are not interchangeable.
What supply voltage do the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN require?
Both devices operate from a single 5 V supply (nominal 5 V, with the standard operating range specified in the respective Texas Instruments datasheets). Designers should consult the official datasheet for the exact recommended operating conditions.
Do the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN support tri-state outputs?
Yes. The AM26LS31CN driver provides tri-state differential outputs controlled by enable pins, and the AM26LS32ACN receiver provides tri-state outputs controlled by enable pins. This allows multiple devices to share a common bus.
What are typical applications for the AM26LS32ACN and AM26LS31CN?
These devices are commonly used in balanced differential data transmission systems such as RS-422/RS-485 networks, industrial control interfaces, and point-to-point or multidrop serial communication links where noise immunity and long cable runs are required.