Once that window closes, the part will no longer be available through authorized distribution. For a production line already qualified on this transceiver, the decision is immediate: secure lifetime-buy inventory or qualify a drop-in replacement before the window shuts. Through independent distribution, we can source remaining stock and quote to order — but the clock is running on fresh TI production.
Supply voltage and 5V logic compatibility
If your UART or controller runs at 5V, you need a level translator or a 5V-tolerant transceiver variant. The receiver inputs are RS-485 bus pins and handle the common-mode range of the differential bus, but the driver enable (DE) and data input (DI) pins see the supply rail. Driving them with 5V logic without a series resistor or level shifter risks latch-up or overstress. Check the absolute maximums in the datasheet before tying directly to a 5V MCU.