LP339 Quad Comparator Technical Summary

Overview

The LP339 is a quad independent voltage comparator designed for optimal performance with single power supply operation. This component is engineered to deliver ultra-low power consumption while maintaining stable operation across a wide range of supply voltages. With a typical power supply drain current of just 60 μA, the LP339 is ideal for battery-powered and energy-efficient applications. The device also supports split-supply configurations, making it versatile for various circuit designs.

Each of the four comparators in the LP339 features high input impedance and low input bias current, enabling precise voltage comparisons even in high-impedance circuits. The output stage is designed to drive standard logic levels, making it compatible with TTL, CMOS, and other common logic families.

Key Features

• Ultra-Low Power Consumption: Typical supply current of 60 μA per comparator, independent of supply voltage
• Wide Supply Voltage Range: Operates from single supply voltages from 2V to 36V or dual supplies of ±1V to ±18V
• Low Input Bias Current: 25 nA maximum at 25°C
• Low Input Offset Voltage: 2 mV typical
• TTL/CMOS-Compatible Outputs: Output stage can sink up to 16 mA
• Extended Temperature Range: -40°C to +125°C operation
• ESD Protection: Built-in protection against electrostatic discharge

Applications

The LP339's combination of low power consumption and versatile operation makes it suitable for numerous applications across multiple industries:

Consumer Electronics

• Battery-powered devices
• Threshold detectors
• Window comparators
• Zero-crossing detectors

Industrial Systems

• Process control systems
• Level sensing circuits
• Overvoltage/undervoltage protection
• Motor control circuits

Automotive Electronics

• Battery monitoring systems
• Sensor interfaces
• Warning light drivers
• Load detection circuits

Electrical Characteristics

The following table summarizes the key electrical specifications of the LP339:

Absolute Maximum Ratings

• Supply Voltage (VCC): 36V
• Differential Input Voltage: ±36V
• Input Voltage Range: -0.3V to +36V
• Output Short-Circuit Duration: Continuous
• Operating Temperature Range: -40°C to +125°C
• Storage Temperature Range: -65°C to +150°C

DC Electrical Characteristics

• Input Offset Voltage (VIO): 2 mV typical, 5 mV maximum
• Input Bias Current (IB): 5 nA typical, 25 nA maximum
• Input Offset Current (IIO): 1 nA typical, 5 nA maximum
• Supply Current (per comparator): 60 μA typical, 100 μA maximum
• Large-Signal Voltage Gain: 200 V/mV typical
• Output Sink Current: 16 mA minimum

AC Electrical Characteristics

• Response Time (100 mV overdrive): 1.3 μs typical
• Propagation Delay: 1.5 μs typical

Package Information

The LP339 is available in multiple package options to suit various application requirements:

14-Pin PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package)

• Package Code: N
• Dimensions: 19.30 mm x 6.35 mm
• Lead Pitch: 2.54 mm
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +125°C

14-Pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit)

• Package Code: D
• Dimensions: 8.65 mm x 3.90 mm
• Lead Pitch: 1.27 mm
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +125°C

14-Pin TSSOP (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package)

• Package Code: PW
• Dimensions: 5.00 mm x 4.40 mm
• Lead Pitch: 0.65 mm
• Operating Temperature: -40°C to +125°C

Design Considerations

When implementing the LP339 in circuit designs, several factors should be considered to ensure optimal performance:

Power Supply Decoupling

Proper decoupling is essential for stable operation. A 0.1 μF ceramic capacitor should be placed as close as possible to the power supply pins.

Input Protection

While the LP339 features built-in ESD protection, additional external protection may be required in harsh environments. Series input resistors can help limit current during transient events.

Output Loading

The output stage is designed to sink current. When driving capacitive loads, a series resistor (typically 100-470Ω) should be used to prevent oscillation.

PCB Layout

Maintain proper separation between high-impedance input traces and output or power traces to prevent unwanted feedback and oscillation. Ground planes should be used where possible to minimize noise.

Conclusion

The LP339 quad comparator offers an excellent combination of ultra-low power consumption, wide operating voltage range, and reliable performance across temperature extremes. Its versatile characteristics make it suitable for a wide range of applications from portable electronics to industrial control systems. The availability in multiple package options provides designers with flexibility in board layout and space-constrained applications.