What this transceiver is and where it fits
The Maxim MAX3070EASD+ is a full-duplex RS422/RS485 transceiver in a 14-SOIC package, designed for balanced-data serial communication over twisted-pair cabling. It handles one driver and one receiver per device (1/1), operating from a 3V to 3.6V supply rail — typically a 3.3V bus. The 250kbps data rate suits industrial fieldbus links, PLC-to-sensor networks, and building-automation backbones where cable lengths run tens to hundreds of metres. The -40°C to 125°C temperature range qualifies it for outdoor telecom cabinets, motor-drive bays, and under-hood automotive-adjacent environments.
Supply rail and signal margin
Rated for 3V to 3.6V supply, this part mates directly with 3.3V logic families (FPGA banks, ARM MCU UARTs) without a level shifter. The 100 mV receiver hysteresis cleans up noise on long cable runs — a common failure point on RS485 links in electrically noisy plants. Full-duplex operation means you get simultaneous transmit and receive on a four-wire bus, halving the protocol overhead compared to half-duplex turnarounds.
Lifecycle and sourcing
The part is RoHS3 compliant. For current pricing and availability, submit an RFQ — we source through independent distribution and confirm both at quote time.