MAX1480EAEPI+ - Isolated RS-485/RS-422 Transceiver | Analog Devices
MPN: MAX1480EAEPI+ ✓ ActiveMAX1480EAEPI+ Overview
An isolated RS-485/RS-422 transceiver is a semiconductor interface that combines differential line-driver and receiver functions with electrical isolation between the logic-side and bus-side circuits. In the hierarchy of electronic components, it is an interface transceiver, then a line driver and receiver, and finally a data-communication semiconductor. The MAX1480EAEPI+ supports both RS-485 and RS-422 networks while separating sensitive logic equipment from the communication cable.
Key features include ±15 kV ESD protection on the I/O pins, single-side power isolation, a fail-safe receiver circuit, and low-power standby operation. The 4.5 V to 5.5 V operating supply supports conventional 5 V equipment, while the differential interface helps reject common-mode noise picked up by long cables. The listed operating temperature range is 0°C to +70°C.
The MAX1480EAEPI+ is implemented as a complete isolated data interface rather than a simple line transceiver. Its hybrid construction provides both driver and receiver functions on one board, reducing the number of components needed for a bidirectional isolated link. Its 28-PDIP format supports through-hole assembly and straightforward prototype or repair work where a surface-mount isolator is unnecessary.
Typical applications include industrial-control networks, building-control networks, automated test equipment, local-area networks, telecom transceivers, and other EMI-sensitive RS-485 or RS-422 links. The isolation barrier can help limit ground-potential and surge-related stress between a host controller and an externally connected bus.
For a new design, confirm the transceiver voltage, temperature range, isolation requirements, bus loading, termination strategy, and ESD environment before assigning the DIP footprint. Keep bus-side and logic-side return paths separated according to the manufacturer datasheet, and place protective network components close to the connector when additional surge protection is required.
This product page combines the manufacturer family information with distributor specifications, package details, drop-in-family comparisons, and practical interface-design guidance. It helps engineers identify whether the MAX1480EAEPI+ matches a legacy 28-pin isolated RS-485/RS-422 design and where additional qualification is required before substitution.
Drop-in alternatives for MAX1480EAEPI+ — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
Variants in this series
Same-series models that are drop-in compatible with MAX1480EAEPI+ (same form factor and footprint) — differing in Package, Product Type, Operating Temperature Range, Supported Standards.
MAX1480AEPI+
✅ Drop-InContact for price
View Datasheet →MAX1480EACPI+
✅ Drop-InContact for price
View Datasheet →MAX1480ECPI+
✅ Drop-In📋 Reference alternative (not in catalog)
MAX1480EAEPI+ Specifications
| Product Type | Isolated RS-485/RS-422 transceiver |
| Driver and Receiver Configuration | 1 driver and 1 receiver |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| ESD Protection | ±15 kV |
| Isolation | Single-side power isolation |
| Receiver Fail-Safe Circuit | Supported |
| Standby Mode | Low-power standby |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to +70°C |
| Package | 28-pin plastic DIP (28-PDIP) |
| Total Pin Count | 28 pins |
| Mounting Type | Through-hole |
| Supported Standards | RS-485 and RS-422 |
| Logic and Bus Isolation | Electrically isolated |
MAX1480EAEPI+ 28-pin plastic dip (28-pdip) Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for MAX1480EAEPI+ (28-pin plastic dip (28-pdip) package). Pin numbering, functions, and connection diagrams are defined in the manufacturer datasheet. Refer to it for the exact footprint and soldering guidelines.
No detailed pinout data available for MAX1480EAEPI+.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
MAX1480EAEPI+ is suitable for 6 applications: Industrial Control Networks, Building Control Networks, Automated Test Equipment, Telecom Data Interfaces, EMI-Sensitive Local Area Networks, Isolated Field-Bus Equipment.
Industrial Control Networks
The MAX1480EAEPI+ fits industrial-control links that need one differential driver and receiver with electrical isolation between the controller and field bus. Its 4.5 V to 5.5 V operating range supports conventional 5 V equipment, while ±15 kV ESD protection strengthens the interface connected to external wiring. The 0°C to +70°C range is appropriate when the enclosure remains within commercial-temperature limits. Isolation also helps protect the controller side from ground-potential differences, although cable routing, grounding, bus termination, and surge protection must still be engineered for the installation.
Recommended
Building Control Networks
The MAX1480EAEPI+ can connect building-control equipment over an isolated RS-485 or RS-422 bus where long cables may introduce noise or ground-potential differences. Its fail-safe receiver circuit supports deterministic behavior when the bus is idle, and the low-power standby feature is useful when controllers periodically power down interfaces. The differential driver and receiver reduce susceptibility to common-mode interference. Design the network according to the number of nodes, termination placement, and the RS-485 versus RS-422 topology required by the building system.
Recommended
Automated Test Equipment
The MAX1480EAEPI+ suits automated test equipment that communicates with remote fixtures through isolated differential lines. The integrated driver and receiver reduce the number of interface components, and the 4.5 V to 5.5 V supply range aligns with common 5 V test-system logic. Electrical isolation helps separate sensitive test electronics from fixture wiring, while ±15 kV ESD protection adds resilience at externally accessible lines. For high-throughput systems, verify the family's data rate and timing against the tester fixture requirements before finalizing the channel count and isolation budget.
Recommended
Telecom Data Interfaces
The MAX1480EAEPI+ is suitable for isolated RS-485 or RS-422 interfaces in telecom equipment where exposed communication lines require ESD resilience and separation from sensitive logic. Its ±15 kV ESD rating is relevant to connector-adjacent circuits, and the internal isolation barrier helps manage potential differences between equipment sections. The 4.5 V to 5.5 V supply simplifies integration with 5 V interface logic. Telecom installations still require system-level protection, controlled grounding, appropriate cable routing, and verification that the operating temperature and isolation requirements match the deployed equipment.
Recommended
EMI-Sensitive Local Area Networks
The MAX1480EAEPI+ supports isolated RS-485 and RS-422 local-area networks where differential signaling and electrical isolation are useful for rejecting noise and limiting ground coupling. Its one-driver, one-receiver configuration supports point-to-point links and controlled RS-485 arrangements. The fail-safe receiver and low-power standby functions improve behavior in idle or disconnected operating states. When planning a local network, match the transceiver to the protocol's topology, use termination only where required, and keep the isolated-side return current within the manufacturer's layout guidance.
Recommended
Isolated Field-Bus Equipment
The MAX1480EAEPI+ is well suited to field-bus equipment requiring a protected, isolated communications port near an external connector. Its ±15 kV ESD protection targets the high-energy transients commonly encountered on wired interfaces, while single-side power isolation supports separation of logic and bus domains. The 28-PDIP through-hole package is useful in ruggedized equipment where conventional through-hole assembly and serviceability are priorities. Additional surge protection may still be needed when the cable enters the enclosure or when regulatory exposure exceeds the transceiver's specified ESD rating.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for MAX1480EAEPI+ — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product | MAX1480AEPI+ | MAX1480EACPI+ | MAX1480ECPI+ |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Package | 28-pin plastic DIP (28-PDIP) | 28-pin plastic DIP (28-PDIP) | 28-pin plastic DIP (28-PDIP) | 28-pin plastic DIP (28-PDIP) |
| Brand | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices | Analog Devices |
| Interface Type | Isolated RS-485/RS-422 transceiver | Isolated RS-485/RS-422 transceiver | Isolated RS-485/RS-422 transceiver | Isolated RS-485/RS-422 transceiver |
| Driver and Receiver Count | 1 driver and 1 receiver | 1 driver and 1 receiver | 1 driver and 1 receiver | 1 driver and 1 receiver |
| Supply Voltage Range | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V | 4.5 V to 5.5 V |
| ESD Protection | ±15 kV | ±15 kV | ±15 kV | ±15 kV |
| Isolation | Single-side power isolation | Single-side power isolation | Single-side power isolation | Single-side power isolation |
| Receiver Fail-Safe Circuit | Supported | Supported | Supported | Supported |
| Low-Power Standby | Supported | Supported | Supported | Supported |
Key Differentiators
- Documented isolated RS-485/RS-422 integration (vs MAX1480AEPI+)
- 15 kV-class ESD protection on communication pins (vs MAX1480EACPI+)
- Same 28-pin through-hole footprint across documented family alternatives (vs MAX1480ECPI+)
Design Notes
Follow the isolation-gap and bus-side layout shown in the Analog Devices MAX1480EA data sheet. Keep the logic-side and isolated-side ground returns separate until the intended isolation boundary, and avoid routing copper beneath the isolation barrier unless the manufacturer drawing explicitly permits it. Place input and output decoupling capacitors at their associated device pins and route bus traces away from sensitive logic to minimize capacitive coupling.
Do not treat the ±15 kV ESD rating as unlimited surge protection. The requirement must be checked against the actual cable length, connector exposure, ground differences, and installation environment. Add external surge or common-mode protection when the interface is exposed to lightning, long outdoor cables, or severe industrial transients. Also verify that the selected ordering suffix meets the required temperature grade before substituting another MAX1480EA-family device.
Apply termination according to the selected RS-485 or RS-422 topology rather than placing termination indiscriminately at every node. RS-485 multidrop buses commonly use termination at the physical ends, while point-to-point RS-422 links may require termination at the receiver. Maintain a continuous return path associated with the differential pair, use twisted-pair cabling, and test idle, loaded, and driver-disabled states to confirm receiver behavior.
Compliance Information
The verified product information does not explicitly state RoHS, REACH, lead-free, halogen-free, or conflict-minerals status. AEC-Q100 qualification is treated as not applicable because this is an industrial interface IC rather than an automotive-qualified device.
