Texas Instruments LM2901MX

Overview

LM2901MX from Texas Instruments is a quad voltage comparator IC designed for single-supply industrial signal conditioning, featuring ±3 mV maximum input offset voltage, 0.8 mA typical supply current per comparator, and rail-to-rail input common-mode range including ground - enabling precise threshold detection in battery-powered sensors and power supply monitors.

For engineers reviewing the LM2901MX datasheet, LM2901MX pinout, LM2901MX application, or LM2901MX equivalent, this page delivers verified specifications, validated PDIP-14 package mapping, confirmed open-collector output architecture, and two rigorously cross-referenced alternative comparators for direct design-in evaluation.

Technical Context

The LM2901MX implements four independent high-gain comparators with PNP differential input stages, allowing input voltages down to GND on single supplies up to 36 VDC. Its uncommitted NPN open-collector outputs support wired-OR logic, level translation up to 36 V, and sink currents up to 16 mA with 250 mV saturation voltage at 4 mA.

It operates across −40°C to +85°C with supply current independent of V+, input bias current ≤25 nA, and differential input voltage tolerance exceeding supply rails - enabling robust interfacing with TTL, CMOS, and MOS logic without dual supplies.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM2901MX is packaged in a 14-pin Plastic Dual In-line Package (PDIP) with body size 19.177 mm × 6.35 mm, lead pitch 2.54 mm, and through-hole mounting compatible with standard 0.1″ grid PCB layouts.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad comparator applications.

Compared with LM339N and TLV3704IPW, the LM2901MX uniquely combines extended −40°C to +85°C operation, 36 V open-collector output compatibility, and GND-referenced inputs - making it the only option for ruggedized industrial control designs requiring guaranteed performance across full temperature and voltage ranges.

Availability

LM2901MX is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for overvoltage protection circuits, temperature threshold monitors, zero-crossing detectors, and logic-level translators requiring stable component supply across industrial, instrumentation, and embedded control programs.

Supply support for LM2901MX includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

Texas Instruments is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with over 50 years of innovation in precision analog ICs and industrial-grade components.

The LM2901MX belongs to TI's LMx39-N quad comparator family, engineered specifically for industrial signal conditioning where single-supply operation, GND-referenced inputs, and robust open-collector outputs are essential.

FAQ

What is the operating temperature range of the LM2901MX?

The LM2901MX is specified for continuous operation from −40°C to +85°C ambient temperature. This extended industrial range ensures reliable performance in factory automation controllers, outdoor power supplies, and automotive body electronics where thermal cycling occurs. The LM2901MX maintains its ±3 mV input offset voltage and 0.8 mA supply current spec across this full range - unlike the LM339N, which is limited to 0°C to +70°C.

Does the LM2901MX require dual power supplies?

No, the LM2901MX is explicitly designed for single-supply operation with input common-mode voltage range extending to GND. It functions correctly with V+ = 5 V and GND only - no negative rail needed. Its PNP input stage enables true ground-sensing capability, making it ideal for battery voltage monitoring and sensor interfaces where the signal source is referenced to system ground. Dual supplies (±15 V) are optional and supported, but not required.

Can the LM2901MX outputs drive TTL and CMOS logic directly?

Yes, the LM2901MX open-collector outputs are fully compatible with TTL, DTL, ECL, MOS, and CMOS logic families when used with appropriate pullup resistors. With a 5 V pullup, the output saturates to ≤250 mV at 4 mA sink - well below the 0.8 V TTL LOW threshold. For CMOS, the 36 V output rating allows pullup to higher voltages (e.g., 12 V or 24 V), enabling direct interface with industrial control inputs without level-shifting circuitry.

What is the maximum differential input voltage the LM2901MX can withstand?

The LM2901MX tolerates differential input voltages up to 36 V - exceeding its own supply voltage without damage. This allows safe comparison of signals referenced to different grounds or floating sources (e.g., isolated current sense amplifiers). However, absolute input voltage must remain ≥ −0.3 VDC relative to GND to avoid forward-biasing input clamp diodes. Exceeding −0.3 V may cause temporary output malfunction but does not cause permanent damage.

How does the LM2901MX differ from the LM339 in terms of temperature rating and offset voltage?

The LM2901MX guarantees ±3 mV maximum input offset voltage and −40°C to +85°C operation, whereas the LM339N specifies ±9 mV offset and is rated only from 0°C to +70°C. This makes the LM2901MX suitable for precision applications in harsh environments - such as motor drive current limiting or solar inverter MPPT tracking - where both accuracy and thermal resilience are critical. The LM2901MX also shares identical pinout and electrical behavior with the LM339N, enabling drop-in replacement where temperature and offset specs must be upgraded.