<https://groups.google.com/d/optout>I just learned that apparently (I
have not looked at the data sheet myself) MAXIM has changed the function
of pin 2 on their serial line driver chip. The old configuration was a
polarized cap. tied to gnd. (that's the way I always wired them), and
their data sheet now shows the cap. tied to vcc (I'm told). Could
account for the heat, and short service life!!! *grin* Bottom line is
check the data sheets, or stick with T.I. 232 chips (they still work the
same old way). Wonder why they did this????
Roger