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Maxim > Design Support > Technical Documents > Application Notes > UARTs > APP 4938
Keywords: UART, Universal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter, single UART, dual UART, quad UART,
asynchronous communications network
APPLICATION NOTE 4938
Differences Between Maxim's Advanced UART
Devices
By: Scott Lewis
Mar 24, 2011
Abstract: Maxim advanced universal asynchronous receivers/transmitters (UARTs) ease the burden of
physical layer management in an asynchronous communications network. The devices include a single
UART with two package options (MAX3107/MAX3108), a dual UART (MAX3109), and a quad UART
(MAX14830).
These UARTs share a common register set, which eases the task of adapting firmware from one UART
to another. This article discusses each UART's unique set of features. It also examines the care that
must be taken when adapting software and hardware from one device to another.
Introduction
Maxim's advanced universal asynchronous receivers/transmitters (UARTs) help the host processor
manage the physical layer in an asynchronous communications network. These advanced devices
include a single UART with two package options (MAX3107/MAX3108), a dual UART (MAX3109), and a
quad UART (MAX14830).
Why So Many UARTs?
Maxim produces four similar types of advanced UARTs to serve the needs of a wide variety of
applications, including mobile Internet devices, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and airplane communication
buses. Table 1 compares the features of each UART. For a detailed description of features and other
specifications common to a UART, see the associated device's data sheet.
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