since Maxim has taken over dallas does
it mean MAX1232 you mentioned is identical
to DS1232 in terms of specs?
Possibly they are going to use the DS masks (argh) possibly they are going to use the MAX masks. I have read that the Dallas production is gradually moving to the Maxim foundry this could mean the DS will become a MAX part. Another possibility is, of course, that, in order not to upset designs using a specific part, they will keep producing two versions.

Oh, why do I use so much space to say "I don't know"

Marry Christmas

Erik