LMP2234BMAX

LMP2234 Quad Micropower, 1.6V, Precision, Operational Amplifier with CMOS Input December 18, 2008 LMP2234 Quad Micropower, 1.6V, Precision, Operational Amplifier with CMOS Input General Description The LMP2234 is a quad micropower precision amplifier designed for battery powered applications. The 1.6 to 5.5V operating supply voltage range and quiescent power consumption of only 50 μW extend the battery life in portable systems. The LMP2234 is part of the LMP® precision amplifier family. The high impedance CMOS input makes it ideal for instrumentation and other sensor interface applications. The LMP2234 has a maximum offset voltage of 150 μV and 0.3 μV/°C offset drift along with low bias current of only ±20 fA. These precise specifications make the LMP2234 a great choice for maintaining system accuracy and long term stability. The LMP2234 has a rail-to-rail output that swings 15 mV from the supply voltage, which increases system dynamic range. The common mode input voltage range extends 200 mV below the negative supply, thus the LMP2234 is ideal for ground sensing in single supply applications. The LMP2234 is offered in 14-Pin SOIC and TSSOP packages. Features (For VS = 5V, Typical unless otherwise noted) 31 µA ■ Supply current at 1.8V 1.6V to 5.5V ■ Operating voltage range ±0.75 µV/°C (max) ■ Low TCVOS ±150 µV (max) ■ VOS ±20 fA ■ Input bias current 120 dB ■ PSRR 97 dB ■ CMRR 120 dB ■ Open loop gain 130 kHz ■ Gain bandwidth product 58 V/ms ■ Slew rate 60 nV/√Hz ■ Input voltage noise, f = 1 kHz –40°C to 125°C ■ Temperature range Applications ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ Precision instrumentation amplifiers Battery powered medical instrumentation High impedance sensors Strain gauge bridge amplifier Thermocouple amplifiers Typical Application Strain Gauge Bridge Amplifier 20203468 LMP® is a registered trademark of National Semiconductor Corporation. © 2008 National Semiconductor Corporation 202034 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Absolute Maximum Ratings (Note 1) If Military/Aerospace specified devices are required, please contact the National Semiconductor Sales Office/ Distributors for availability and specifications. ESD Tolerance(Note 2) Human Body Model Machine Model Differential Input Voltage Supply Voltage (VS = V+ - V–) Voltage on Input/Output Pins Storage Temperature Range Junction Temperature(Note 3) 2000V 100V ±300 mV 6V V+ + 0.3V, V– – 0.3V −65°C to 150°C 150°C Mounting Temperature Infrared or Convection (20 sec.) Wave Soldering Lead Temperature (10 sec.) +235°C +260°C (Note 1) Operating Ratings Operating Temperature Range (Note 3) −40°C to 125°C Supply Voltage (VS = V+ - V–) 1.6V to 5.5V Package Thermal Resistance (θJA) (Note 3) 14-Pin SOIC 101.5 °C/W 14-Pin TSSOP 121 °C/W 5V DC Electrical Characteristics Symbol VOS TCVOS IBIAS IOS CMRR PSRR CMVR AVOL VO Parameter Input Offset Voltage Input Offset Voltage Drift Input Bias Current Input Offset Current Common Mode Rejection Ratio Power Supply Rejection Ratio Common Mode Voltage Range Large Signal Voltage Gain Output Swing High Output Swing Low IO Output Current (Note 7) (Note 4) Unless otherwise specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 5V, V– = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1 MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) ±10 LMP2234A LMP2234B ±0.3 ±0.3 ±0.02 ±5 0V ≤ VCM ≤ 4V 1.6V ≤ V+ ≤ 5.5V VCM = 0V CMRR ≥ 80 dB CMRR ≥ 79 dB VO = 0.3V to 4.7V RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = 100 mV RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = −100 mV Sourcing, VO to V− VIN(diff) = 100 mV Sinking, VO to V+ VIN(diff) = −100 mV IS Supply Current 27 19 17 12 81 80 83 82 −0.2 −0.2 110 108 120 17 17 30 22 36 48 50 mA 50 50 50 50 97 120 4.2 4.2 Max (Note 6) ±150 ±230 ±0.75 ±2.5 ±1 ±50 Units μV μV/°C pA fA dB dB V dB mV from either rail µA 5V AC Electrical Characteristics Symbol GBWP SR Parameter Gain Bandwidth Product Slew Rate (Note 4) Unless otherwise specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 5V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1 MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ AV = +1 Falling Edge Rising Edge θm Phase Margin CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ 2 Min (Note 6) 33 32 33 32 Typ (Note 5) 130 58 48 68 Max (Note 6) Units kHz V/ms deg www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Symbol Gm en in THD+N Gain Margin Parameter Conditions CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ f = 1 kHz 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz f = 1 kHz f = 100 Hz, RL = 10 kΩ Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) 27 60 2.3 10 0.002 Max (Note 6) Units dB nV/ μVPP fA/ % Input-Referred Voltage Noise Density Input-Referred Voltage Noise Input-Referred Current Noise Density Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise 3.3V DC Electrical Characteristics Symbol VOS TCVOS IBIAS IOS CMRR PSRR CMVR AVOL VO Parameter Input Offset Voltage Input Offset Voltage Drift Input Bias Current Input Offset Current Common Mode Rejection Ratio Power Supply Rejection Ratio Common Mode Voltage Range Large Signal Voltage Gain Output Swing High Output Swing Low IO Output Current (Note 7) (Note 4) Unless otherwise specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 3.3V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1 MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) ±10 LMP2234A LMP2234B ±0.3 ±0.3 ±0.02 ±5 0V ≤ VCM ≤ 2.3V 1.6V ≤ V+ ≤ 5.5V VCM = 0V CMRR ≥ 78 dB CMRR ≥ 77 dB VO = 0.3V to 3V RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = 100 mV RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = −100 mV Sourcing, VO to V− VIN(diff) = 100 mV Sinking, VO to V+ VIN(diff) = −100 mV IS Supply Current 11 8 8 5 79 77 83 82 −0.2 −0.2 108 107 120 14 14 14 11 34 44 46 mA 50 50 50 50 92 120 2.5 2.5 Max (Note 6) ±160 ±250 ±0.75 ±2.5 ±1 ±50 Units μV μV/°C pA fA dB dB V dB mV from either rail µA 3.3V AC Electrical Characteristics Symbol GBWP SR θm Gm en Parameter Gain Bandwidth Product Slew Rate Phase Margin Gain Margin (Note 4) Unless otherwise is specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 3.3V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1 MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ AV = +1, CL = 20 pF Falling Edge RL = 10 kΩ Rising Edge CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) 128 58 48 66 26 60 2.4 Max (Note 6) Units kHz V/ms deg dB nV/ μVPP Input-Referred Voltage Noise Density f = 1 kHz Input-Referred Voltage Noise 3 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Symbol in THD+N Parameter Input-Referred Current Noise Density f = 1 kHz Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise Conditions Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) 10 0.003 Max (Note 6) Units fA/ % f = 100 Hz, RL = 10 kΩ 2.5V DC Electrical Characteristics Symbol VOS TCVOS IBIAS IOS CMRR PSRR CMVR AVOL VO Parameter Input Offset Voltage Input Offset Voltage Drift Input Bias Current Input Offset Current Common Mode Rejection Ratio Power Supply Rejection Ratio Common Mode Voltage Range Large Signal Voltage Gain Output Swing High Output Swing Low IO Output Current (Note 7) LMP2234A LMP2234B (Note 4) Unless otherwise specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 2.5V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) ±10 ±0.3 ±0.3 ±0.02 ±5 0V ≤ VCM ≤ 1.5V 1.6V ≤ V+ ≤ 5.5V VCM = 0V CMRR ≥ 77 dB CMRR ≥ 76 dB VO = 0.3V to 2.2V RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = 100 mV RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = −100 mV Sourcing, VO to V− VIN(diff) = 100 mV Sinking, VO to V+ VIN(diff) = −100 mV IS Supply Current 5 4 3.5 2.5 77 76 83 82 −0.2 −0.2 104 104 120 12 13 8 7 32 44 46 mA 50 50 50 50 91 120 1.7 1.7 Max (Note 6) ±190 ±275 ±0.75 ±2.5 ±1.0 ±50 Units μV μV/°C pA fA dB dB V dB mV from either rail µA 2.5V AC Electrical Characteristics Symbol GBWP SR θm Gm en in THD+N Parameter Gain Bandwidth Product Slew Rate Phase Margin Gain Margin (Note 4) Unless otherwise specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 2.5V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ AV = +1, CL = 20 pF RL = 10 kΩ CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz f = 1 kHz f = 100 Hz, RL = 10 kΩ Falling Edge Rising Edge Min Typ (Note 6) (Note 5) 128 58 48 64 26 60 2.5 10 0.005 Max (Note 6) Units kHz V/ms deg dB nV/ μVPP fA/ % Input-Referred Voltage Noise Density f = 1 kHz Input-Referred Voltage Noise Input-Referred Current Noise Density Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise www.national.com 4 LMP2234 Quad 1.8V DC Electrical Characteristics Symbol VOS TCVOS IBIAS IOS CMRR PSRR CMVR AVOL VO Parameter Input Offset Voltage Input Offset Voltage Drift Input Bias Current Input Offset Current Common Mode Rejection Ratio Power Supply Rejection Ratio Common Mode Voltage Range Large Signal Voltage Gain Output Swing High Output Swing Low IO Output Current (Note 7) (Note 4) Unless otherwise specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 1.8V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1 MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) ±10 LMP2234A LMP2234B ±0.3 ±0.3 ±0.02 ±5 0V ≤ VCM ≤ 0.8V 1.6V ≤ V+ ≤ 5.5V VCM = 0V CMRR ≥ 76 dB CMRR ≥ 75 dB VO = 0.3V to 1.5V RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = 100 mV RL = 10 kΩ to V+/2 VIN(diff) = −100 mV Sourcing, VO to V− VIN(diff) = 100 mV Sinking, VO to V+ VIN(diff) = −100 mV IS Supply Current 2.5 2 2 1.5 76 75 83 82 -0.2 0 103 103 120 12 13 5 5 31 42 44 mA 50 50 50 50 92 120 1.0 1.0 Max (Note 6) ±230 ±325 ±0.75 ±2.5 ±1.0 ±50 Units μV μV/°C pA fA dB dB V dB mV from either rail µA 1.8V AC Electrical Characteristics Symbol GBWP SR θm Gm en in THD+N Parameter Gain Bandwidth Product Slew Rate Phase Margin Gain Margin (Note 4) Unless otherwise is specified, all limits are guaranteed for TA = 25°C, V+ = 1.8V, V− = 0V, VCM = VO = V+/2, and RL > 1 MΩ. Boldface limits apply at the temperature extremes. Conditions CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ AV = +1, CL = 20 pF Falling Edge RL = 10 kΩ Rising Edge CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ CL = 20 pF, RL = 10 kΩ 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz Min (Note 6) Typ (Note 5) 127 58 48 70 25 60 2.4 10 0.005 Max (Note 6) Units kHz V/ms deg dB nV/ μVPP fA/ % Input-Referred Voltage Noise Density f = 1 kHz Input-Referred Voltage Noise Input-Referred Current Noise Density f = 1 kHz Total Harmonic Distortion + Noise f = 100 Hz, RL = 10 kΩ 5 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Note 1: Absolute Maximum Ratings indicate limits beyond which damage may occur. Operating Ratings indicate conditions for which the device is intended to be functional, but specific performance is not guaranteed. For guaranteed specifications and test conditions, see the Electrical Characteristics. Note 2: Human Body Model, applicable std. MIL-STD-883, Method 3015.7. Machine Model, applicable std. JESD22-A115-A (ESD MM std. of JEDEC) Field-Induced Charge-Device Model, applicable std. JESD22-C101-C (ESD FICDM std. of JEDEC). Note 3: The maximum power dissipation is a function of TJ(MAX), θJA. The maximum allowable power dissipation at any ambient temperature is PD = (TJ(MAX) – TA)/ θJA. All numbers apply for packages soldered directly onto a PC Board. Note 4: Electrical Table values apply only for factory testing conditions at the temperature indicated. Factory testing conditions result in very limited self-heating of the device such that TJ = TA. No guarantee of parametric performance is indicated in the electrical tables under conditions of internal self-heating where TJ > TA. Absolute Maximum Ratings indicate junction temperature limits beyond which the device may be permanently degraded, either mechanically or electrically. Note 5: Typical values represent the most likely parametric norm as determined at the time of characterization. Actual typical values may vary over time and will also depend on the application and configuration. The typical values are not tested and are not guaranteed on shipped production material. Note 6: All limits are guaranteed by testing, statistical analysis or design. Note 7: The short circuit test is a momentary open loop test. Connection Diagram 14-Pin TSSOP/SOIC 20203404 Ordering Information Package Part Number LMP2234AMA LMP2234AMAE 14-Pin SOIC LMP2234AMAX LMP2234BMA LMP2234BMAE LMP2234BMAX LMP2234AMT LMP2234AMTE 14-Pin TSSOP LMP2234AMTX LMP2234BMT LMP2234BMTE LMP2234BMTX LMP2234BMT -40°C to 125°C LMP2234AMT LMP2234BMA LMP2234AMA Temperature Range Package Marking Transport Media 55 Units/Rail 250 Units Tape and Reel 2.5k Units Tape and Reel 55 Units/Rail 250 Units Tape and Reel 2.5k Units Tape and Reel 94 Units/Rail 250 Units Tape and Reel 2.5k Units Tape and Reel 94 Units/Rail 250 Units Tape and Reel 2.5k Units Tape and Reel MTC14 M14A NSC Drawing www.national.com 6 LMP2234 Quad Typical Performance Characteristics VS = V+ - V− Offset Voltage Distribution Unless otherwise Specified: TA = 25°C, VS = 5V, VCM = VS/2, where TCVOS Distribution 20203407 20203411 Offset Voltage Distribution TCVOS Distribution 20203406 20203410 Offset Voltage Distribution TCVOS Distribution 20203405 20203409 7 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Offset Voltage Distribution TCVOS Distribution 20203473 20203469 Offset Voltage vs. VCM Offset Voltage vs. VCM 20203418 20203465 Offset Voltage vs. VCM Offset Voltage vs. VCM 20203464 20203472 www.national.com 8 LMP2234 Quad Offset Voltage vs. Temperature Offset Voltage vs. Supply Voltage 20203471 20203470 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz Voltage Noise 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz Voltage Noise 20203433 20203434 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz Voltage Noise 0.1 Hz to 10 Hz Voltage Noise 20203432 20203431 9 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Input Bias Current vs. VCM Input Bias Current vs. VCM 20203455 20203456 Input Bias Current vs. VCM Input Bias Current vs. VCM 20203457 20203458 Input Bias Current vs. VCM Input Bias Current vs. VCM 20203459 20203460 www.national.com 10 LMP2234 Quad Input Bias Current vs. VCM Input Bias Current vs. VCM 20203461 20203462 PSRR vs. Frequency Supply Current vs. Supply Voltage (per channel) 20203466 20203412 Sinking Current vs. Supply Voltage Sourcing Current vs. Supply Voltage 20203413 20203414 11 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Output Swing High vs. Supply Voltage Output Swing Low vs. Supply Voltage 20203415 20203416 Open Loop Frequency Response Open Loop Frequency Response 20203421 20203422 Phase Margin vs. Capacitive Load Slew Rate vs. Supply Voltage 20203463 20203430 www.national.com 12 LMP2234 Quad THD+N vs. Amplitude THD+N vs. Frequency 20203428 20203429 Large Signal Step Response Small Signal Step Response 20203424 20203423 Large Signal Step Response Small Signal Step Response 20203426 20203425 13 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad CMRR vs. Frequency Input Voltage Noise vs. Frequency 20203467 20203419 www.national.com 14 LMP2234 Quad Application Information LMP2234 The LMP2234 is a quad CMOS precision amplifier that offers low offset voltage, low offset voltage drift, and high gain while consuming less than 10 μA of supply current per channel. The LMP2234 is a micropower op amp, consuming only 36 μA of current. Micropower op amps extend the run time of battery powered systems and reduce energy consumption in energy limited systems. The guaranteed supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V along with the ultra-low supply current extend the battery run time in two ways. The extended power supply voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V enables the op amp to function when the battery voltage has depleted from its nominal value down to 1.8V. In addition, the lower power consumption increases the life of the battery. The LMP2234 has input referred offset voltage of only ±150 μV maximum at room temperature. This offset is guaranteed to be less than ±230 μV over temperature. This minimal offset voltage along with very low TCVOS of only 0.3 µV/°C typical allows more accurate signal detection and amplification in precision applications. The low input bias current of only ±20 fA gives the LMP2234 superiority for use in high impedance sensor applications. Bias current of an amplifier flows through source resistance of the sensor and the voltage resulting from this current flow appears as a noise voltage on the input of the amplifier. The low input bias current enables the LMP2234 to interface with high impedance sensors while generating negligible voltage noise. Thus the LMP2234 provides better signal fidelity and a higher signal-to-noise ratio when interfacing with high impedance sensors. National Semiconductor is heavily committed to precision amplifiers and the market segments they serve. Technical support and extensive characterization data is available for sensitive applications or applications with a constrained error budget. The operating voltage range of 1.8V to 5.5V over the extensive temperature range of −40°C to 125°C makes the LMP2234 an excellent choice for low voltage precision applications with extensive temperature requirements. The LMP2234 is offered in the 14-pin TSSOP and 14-pin SOIC package. These small packages are ideal solutions for area constrained PC boards and portable electronics. TOTAL NOISE CONTRIBUTION The LMP2234 has very low input bias current, very low input current noise, and low input voltage noise for micropower amplifiers. As a result, this amplifier makes a great choice for circuits with high impedance sensor applications. shows the typical input noise of the LMP2234 as a function of source resistance at f = 1 kHz where: • en denotes the input referred voltage noise • ei is the voltage drop across source resistance due to input referred current noise or ei = RS* in • et shows the thermal noise of the source resistance • eni shows the total noise on the input. Where: The input current noise of the LMP2234 is so low that it will not become the dominant factor in the total noise unless source resistance exceeds 300 MΩ, which is an unrealistically high value. As is evident in Figure 1, at lower RS values, total noise is dominated by the amplifier’s input voltage noise. Once RS is larger than 100 kΩ, then the dominant noise factor becomes the thermal noise of RS. As mentioned before, the current noise will not be the dominant noise factor for any practical application. 20203448 FIGURE 1. Total Input Noise VOLTAGE NOISE REDUCTION . While The LMP2234 has an input voltage noise of 60 nV/ this value is very low for micropower amplifiers, this input voltage noise can be further reduced by placing multiple amplifiers in parallel as shown in Figure 2. The total voltage noise on the output of this circuit is divided by the square root of the number of amplifiers used in this parallel combination. This is because each individual amplifier acts as an independent noise source, and the average noise of independent sources is the quadrature sum of the independent sources divided by the number of sources. For N identical amplifiers, this means: 15 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Figure 2 shows a schematic of this input voltage noise reduction circuit using the LMP2234. Typical resistor values are: RG = 10Ω, RF = 1 kΩ, and RO = 1 kΩ. 20203436 FIGURE 3. Instrumentation Amplifier There are two stages in this amplifier. The last stage, the output stage, is a differential amplifier. In an ideal case the two amplifiers of the first stage, the input stage, would be configured as buffers to isolate the inputs. However they cannot be connected as followers because of mismatch in amplifiers. That is why there is a balancing resistor between the two. The product of the two stages of gain will give the gain of the instrumentation amplifier. Ideally, the CMRR should be infinite. However the output stage has a small non-zero common mode gain which results from resistor mismatch. In the input stage of the circuit, current is the same across all resistors. This is due to the high input impedance and low input bias current of the LMP2234. 20203446 (1) FIGURE 2. Noise Reduction Circuit PRECISION INSTRUMENTATION AMPLIFIER Measurement of very small signals with an amplifier requires close attention to the input impedance of the amplifier, the gain of the signal on the inputs, and the gain on each input of the amplifier. This is because the difference of the input signal on the two inputs is of interest and the common signal is considered noise. A classic circuit implementation that is used is an instrumentation amplifier. Instrumentation amplifiers have a finite, accurate, and stable gain. They also have extremely high input impedances and very low output impedances. Finally they have an extremely high CMRR so that the amplifier can only respond to the differential signal. A typical instrumentation amplifier is shown in Figure 3. By Ohm’s Law: (2) However: (3) So we have: VO1–VO2 = (2a+1)(V1–V2) (4) Now looking at the output of the instrumentation amplifier: (5) Substituting from Equation 4: (6) This shows the gain of the instrumentation amplifier to be: −K(2a+1) Typical values for this circuit can be obtained by setting: a = 12 and K = 4. This results in an overall gain of −100. www.national.com 16 LMP2234 Quad SINGLE SUPPLY STRAIN GAUGE BRIDGE AMPLIFIER Strain gauges are popular electrical elements used to measure force or pressure. Strain gauges are subjected to an unknown force which is measured as the deflection on a previously calibrated scale. Pressure is often measured using the same technique; however this pressure needs to be converted into force using an appropriate transducer. Strain gauges are often resistors which are sensitive to pressure or to flexing. Sense resistor values range from tens of ohms to several hundred kilo-ohms. The resistance change which is a result of applied force across the strain gauge might be 1% of its total value. An accurate and reliable system is needed to measure this small resistance change. Bridge configurations offer a reliable method for this measurement. Bridge sensors are formed of four resistors, connected as a quadrilateral. A voltage source or a current source is used across one of the diagonals to excite the bridge while a voltage detector across the other diagonal measures the output voltage. Bridges are mainly used as null circuits or to measure differential voltages. Bridges will have no output voltage if the ratios of two adjacent resistor values are equal. This fact is used in null circuit measurements. These are particularly used in feedback systems which involve electrochemical elements or human interfaces. Null systems force an active resistor, such as a strain gauge, to balance the bridge by influencing the measured parameter. Often in sensor applications at lease one of the resistors is a variable resistor, or a sensor. The deviation of this active element from its initial value is measured as an indication of change in the measured quantity. A change in output voltage represents the sensor value change. Since the sensor value change is often very small, the resulting output voltage is very small in magnitude as well. This requires an extensive and very precise amplification circuitry so that signal fidelity does not change after amplification. Sensitivity of a bridge is the ratio of its maximum expected output change to the excitation voltage change. Figure 4(a) shows a typical bridge sensor and Figure 4(b) shows the bridge with four sensors. R in Figure 4(b) is the nominal value of the sense resistor and the deviations from R are proportional to the quantity being measured. 20203451 20203450 FIGURE 4. Bridge Sensor Instrumentation amplifiers are great for interfacing with bridge sensors. Bridge sensors often sense a very small differential signal in the presence of a larger common mode voltage. Instrumentation amplifiers reject this common mode signal. Figure 5 shows a strain gauge bridge amplifier. In this application one of the LMP2234 amplifiers is used to buffer the LM4140A's precision output voltage. The LM4140A is a precision voltage reference. The other three amplifiers in the LMP2234 are used to form an instrumentation amplifier. This instrumentation amplifier uses the LMP2234's high CMRR and low VOS and TCVOS to accurately amplify the small differential signal generated by the output of the bridge sensor. This amplified signal is then fed into the ADC121S021 which is a 12-bit analog to digital converter. This circuit works on a single supply voltage of 5V. 17 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad 20203468 FIGURE 5. Strain Gauge Bridge Amplifier PORTABLE GAS DETECTION SENSOR Gas sensors are used in many different industrial and medical applications. They generate a current which is proportional to the percentage of a particular gas sensed in an air sample. This current goes through a load resistor and the resulting voltage drop is measured. Depending on the sensed gas and sensitivity of the sensor, the output current can be in the order of tens of microamperes to a few milliamperes. Gas sensor datasheets often specify a recommended load resistor value or they suggest a range of load resistors to choose from. Oxygen sensors are used when air quality or oxygen delivered to a patient needs to be monitored. Fresh air contains 20.9% oxygen. Air samples containing less than 18% oxygen are considered dangerous. Oxygen sensors are also used in industrial applications where the environment must lack oxygen. An example is when food is vacuum packed. There are two main categories of oxygen sensors, those which sense oxygen when it is abundantly present (i.e. in air or near an oxygen tank) and those which detect very small traces of oxygen in ppm. Figure 6 shows a typical circuit used to amplify the output signal of an oxygen detector. The LMP2234 makes an excellent choice for this application as it draws only 36 µA of current and operates on supply voltages down to 1.8V. This application detects oxygen in air. The oxygen sensor outputs a known current through the load resistor. This value changes with the amount of oxygen present in the air sample. Oxygen sensors usually recommend a particular load resistor value or specify a range of acceptable values for the load resistor. Oxygen sensors typically have a life of one to two years. The use of the micropower LMP2234 means minimal power usage by the op amp and it enhances the battery life. Depending on other components present in the circuit design, the battery could last for the entire life of the oxygen sensor. The precision specifications of the LMP2234, such as its very low offset voltage, low TCVOS, low input bias current, low CMRR, and low PSRR are other factors which make the LMP2234 a great choice for this application. 20203449 FIGURE 6. Precision Oxygen Sensor www.national.com 18 LMP2234 Quad Physical Dimensions inches (millimeters) unless otherwise noted 14-Pin SOIC NS Package Number M14A 14-Pin TSSOP NS Package Number MTC14 19 www.national.com LMP2234 Quad Micropower, 1.6V, Precision, Operational Amplifier with CMOS Input Notes For more National Semiconductor product information and proven design tools, visit the following Web sites at: Products Amplifiers Audio Clock and Timing Data Converters Interface LVDS Power Management Switching Regulators LDOs LED Lighting Voltage Reference PowerWise® Solutions Serial Digital Interface (SDI) Temperature Sensors Wireless (PLL/VCO) www.national.com/amplifiers www.national.com/audio www.national.com/timing www.national.com/adc www.national.com/interface www.national.com/lvds www.national.com/power www.national.com/switchers www.national.com/ldo www.national.com/led www.national.com/vref www.national.com/powerwise www.national.com/sdi www.national.com/tempsensors www.national.com/wireless WEBENCH® Tools App Notes Reference Designs Samples Eval Boards Packaging Green Compliance Distributors Design Support www.national.com/webench www.national.com/appnotes www.national.com/refdesigns www.national.com/samples www.national.com/evalboards www.national.com/packaging www.national.com/quality/green www.national.com/contacts www.national.com/quality www.national.com/feedback www.national.com/easy www.national.com/solutions www.national.com/milaero www.national.com/solarmagic www.national.com/AU Quality and Reliability Feedback/Support Design Made Easy Solutions Mil/Aero Solar Magic® Analog University® THE CONTENTS OF THIS DOCUMENT ARE PROVIDED IN CONNECTION WITH NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR CORPORATION (“NATIONAL”) PRODUCTS. NATIONAL MAKES NO REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES WITH RESPECT TO THE ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE CONTENTS OF THIS PUBLICATION AND RESERVES THE RIGHT TO MAKE CHANGES TO SPECIFICATIONS AND PRODUCT DESCRIPTIONS AT ANY TIME WITHOUT NOTICE. NO LICENSE, WHETHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, ARISING BY ESTOPPEL OR OTHERWISE, TO ANY INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHTS IS GRANTED BY THIS DOCUMENT. TESTING AND OTHER QUALITY CONTROLS ARE USED TO THE EXTENT NATIONAL DEEMS NECESSARY TO SUPPORT NATIONAL’S PRODUCT WARRANTY. EXCEPT WHERE MANDATED BY GOVERNMENT REQUIREMENTS, TESTING OF ALL PARAMETERS OF EACH PRODUCT IS NOT NECESSARILY PERFORMED. NATIONAL ASSUMES NO LIABILITY FOR APPLICATIONS ASSISTANCE OR BUYER PRODUCT DESIGN. BUYERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR PRODUCTS AND APPLICATIONS USING NATIONAL COMPONENTS. PRIOR TO USING OR DISTRIBUTING ANY PRODUCTS THAT INCLUDE NATIONAL COMPONENTS, BUYERS SHOULD PROVIDE ADEQUATE DESIGN, TESTING AND OPERATING SAFEGUARDS. EXCEPT AS PROVIDED IN NATIONAL’S TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE FOR SUCH PRODUCTS, NATIONAL ASSUMES NO LIABILITY WHATSOEVER, AND NATIONAL DISCLAIMS ANY EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTY RELATING TO THE SALE AND/OR USE OF NATIONAL PRODUCTS INCLUDING LIABILITY OR WARRANTIES RELATING TO FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, MERCHANTABILITY, OR INFRINGEMENT OF ANY PATENT, COPYRIGHT OR OTHER INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY RIGHT. LIFE SUPPORT POLICY NATIONAL’S PRODUCTS ARE NOT AUTHORIZED FOR USE AS CRITICAL COMPONENTS IN LIFE SUPPORT DEVICES OR SYSTEMS WITHOUT THE EXPRESS PRIOR WRITTEN APPROVAL OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND GENERAL COUNSEL OF NATIONAL SEMICONDUCTOR CORPORATION. As used herein: Life support devices or systems are devices which (a) are intended for surgical implant into the body, or (b) support or sustain life and whose failure to perform when properly used in accordance with instructions for use provided in the labeling can be reasonably expected to result in a significant injury to the user. A critical component is any component in a life support device or system whose failure to perform can be reasonably expected to cause the failure of the life support device or system or to affect its safety or effectiveness. National Semiconductor and the National Semiconductor logo are registered trademarks of National Semiconductor Corporation. All other brand or product names may be trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Copyright© 2008 National Semiconductor Corporation For the most current product information visit us at www.national.com National Semiconductor Americas Technical Support Center Email: support@nsc.com Tel: 1-800-272-9959 www.national.com National Semiconductor Europe Technical Support Center Email: europe.support@nsc.com German Tel: +49 (0) 180 5010 771 English Tel: +44 (0) 870 850 4288 National Semiconductor Asia Pacific Technical Support Center Email: ap.support@nsc.com National Semiconductor Japan Technical Support Center Email: jpn.feedback@nsc.com