Part A
AM26LS31CN
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 3184 PCS
- Series
- Interfaces - pilotes, récepteurs, émetteurs - récepteurs
Replacement verdict
Not a drop-in replacement
The AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN are complementary rather than interchangeable devices: the AM26LS31CN is a quad differential line driver, while the AM26LS32CN is a quad differential line receiver. Their signal direction, I/O structure, and functional role in a transmission link differ fundamentally, so one cannot directly substitute for the other in the same socket without redesigning the surrounding interface.
Different signal direction
Driver versus receiver function
Different I/O structure
Not functionally interchangeable
Parts at a glance
Part B
AM26LS32CN
Texas Instruments
- Lifecycle
- Active
- Stock
- 7657 PCS
- Package
- DIP-16
- Series
- Interfaces - pilotes, récepteurs, émetteurs - récepteurs
Key differences
Rows are prioritized by design impact. Highlighted values require attention during substitution.
Key electrical and mechanical differences between the two devices
| Parameter | AM26LS31CN | AM26LS32CN | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|---|
| Function | Quad differential line driver | Quad differential line receiver | A driver and a receiver serve opposite roles in a differential link; they are not direct substitutes for the same socket function. |
| Number of Drivers | 4 | 0 | The driver count determines how many differential output pairs the device can transmit. |
| Number of Receivers | 0 | 4 | The receiver count determines how many differential input pairs the device can accept. |
| Output Type | Tri-state differential | Tri-state (receiver outputs) | Tri-state capability allows outputs to be disabled and shared on a bus, but the driver outputs differential signals while the receiver outputs single-ended logic. |
| Input/Output Direction | Single-ended TTL inputs to differential outputs | Differential inputs to single-ended TTL outputs | Signal direction is fundamental to whether the part can replace the other in a circuit path. |
| Supply Voltage (VCC) | 5 V nominal | 5 V nominal | Both operate from a 5 V supply, so power-rail compatibility is maintained. |
| Package | 16-pin PDIP (N) | 16-pin PDIP (N) | Matching package and pin count allows board-level fit, though pin functions differ between driver and receiver. |
| Operating Temperature Range | 0°C to 70°C | 0°C to 70°C | Commercial temperature range compatibility supports use in the same ambient environments. |
| Standard Compliance | Meets RS-422 / RS-423 specifications | Meets RS-422 / RS-423 specifications | Compliance with the same serial standards indicates interoperability within a balanced/unbalanced differential link. |
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Full specification comparison
Use manufacturer datasheets as the final authority.
| Specification | AM26LS31CN | AM26LS32CN |
|---|---|---|
| Supplier | - | Texas Instruments |
| Part Status | Active | Obsolete |
| Type | Driver | Receiver |
| Protocol | RS422, RS485 | RS422, RS423 |
| Number of Drivers/Receivers | - | 0/4 |
| Receiver Hysteresis | - | 100 mV |
| 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 |
| Base Product Number | AM26LS31 | - |
| Number of Drivers / Receivers | 4/0 | - |
| Packaging | Tube | - |
Frequently asked questions
What are the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN, and how do they differ functionally?
The AM26LS31CN is a quad differential line driver, while the AM26LS32CN is a quad differential line receiver. The AM26LS31CN converts single-ended TTL/CMOS logic inputs into differential RS-422/RS-485-compatible outputs, whereas the AM26LS32CN accepts differential inputs and produces TTL-compatible outputs. They are complementary devices typically used as a driver/receiver pair in balanced transmission systems.
Are the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN pin-compatible and can they be used interchangeably?
No. Although both are offered in the same 16-pin DIP (N) package, they are not interchangeable because their internal functions and pin assignments differ. The AM26LS31CN is a driver with enable inputs and differential outputs, while the AM26LS32CN is a receiver with differential inputs, output enable, and a fail-safe feature. Each must be used in its designated driver or receiver role.
What supply voltage do the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN require?
Both devices operate from a single 5 V nominal supply (VCC), consistent with their TTL-compatible logic interfaces. Designers should consult the respective manufacturer datasheets for the specified operating supply voltage range and absolute maximum ratings before finalizing a design.
Do the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN support tri-state outputs?
Yes. The AM26LS31CN driver provides tri-state differential outputs controlled by enable inputs, allowing the outputs to be placed in a high-impedance state. The AM26LS32CN receiver provides a tri-state TTL output controlled by an output enable pin. This enables bus sharing and multiplexing in balanced transmission systems.
What is the role of the fail-safe feature in the AM26LS32CN compared with the AM26LS31CN?
The AM26LS32CN receiver includes a fail-safe feature that forces the output to a known high state when the differential inputs are open, terminated, or idle, helping prevent undefined logic levels. The AM26LS31CN, being a driver, does not have a receiver fail-safe function; its behavior is governed by its enable and input logic.
Are the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN suitable for RS-422 and RS-485 applications?
Yes. The AM26LS31CN driver and AM26LS32CN receiver are designed for balanced differential data transmission and are commonly used in RS-422 and RS-485 systems. Actual compliance with a given standard depends on the complete system design, including termination, cabling, and the specific standard's electrical requirements, so designers should verify against the relevant standard and datasheet specifications.
What package type do the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN use, and does the "CN" suffix indicate anything?
Both the AM26LS31CN and AM26LS32CN are supplied in a 16-pin plastic DIP package, denoted by the "N" suffix in the ordering code. The "C" prefix in the suffix typically denotes the commercial temperature grade. Designers should confirm package and temperature grade details against the specific manufacturer's datasheet and ordering information.