RS-232 transceiver in a DIP — still the right call for legacy and noise-tolerant links
The Maxim Integrated MAX202ECPE+ is a full-duplex RS-232 transceiver packing two drivers and two receivers into a through-hole 16-PDIP package. It handles data rates up to 120 kbps over a 4.5V to 5.5V supply rail, with 500 mV of receiver hysteresis to shrug off noise on longer cable runs or in electrically rough environments. The commercial temperature range (0°C to 70°C) suits it for benchtop equipment, point-of-sale terminals, and other indoor gear where the wiring is already RS-232 and the board is through-hole for ease of service or prototyping.
5V-only supply — plan the rail before you route
This part runs from a single 4.5V to 5.5V supply. It will not operate from a 3.3V rail, so if your system is all 3.3V, you will need a separate 5V supply or a different RS-232 transceiver. The 120 kbps data rate covers the vast majority of RS-232 applications — serial consoles, industrial sensors, and legacy peripheral links. The 500 mV hysteresis on the receiver inputs gives you extra margin against ground bounce and coupled noise on long cables, which is a real advantage over older 200 mV-hysteresis parts in electrically noisy environments.
Active lifecycle — no rush to qualify a second source
The MAX202ECPE+ carries an Active lifecycle status with ROHS3 compliance. For procurement, this means you can specify it into a new design without worrying about an imminent end-of-life. The through-hole DIP package also means it is straightforward to hand-assemble or rework in prototype runs and low-volume production.