Texas Instruments LM293PE4

Overview

LM293PE4 from Texas Instruments is a dual voltage comparator in PDIP-8 package, designed for single-supply operation from 2 V to 30 V. It delivers ±9 mV max input offset voltage, 1.3 µs typical response time, 250 µA typical supply current per comparator, and open-collector outputs compatible with TTL/MOS/CMOS logic-used in server PSU overvoltage detection and cordless power tool battery monitoring.

For engineers reviewing the LM293PE4 datasheet, LM293PE4 pinout, LM293PE4 application, or LM293PE4 equivalent, this page provides verified electrical specs, thermal metrics, real-world use cases, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented functional and parametric differences for cost-sensitive industrial and consumer designs.

Technical Context

The LM293PE4 implements two independent comparators with rail-to-rail common-mode input range down to ground and differential input capability up to ±36 V. Its open-collector outputs support wired-AND configurations and interface directly with 3.3 V or 5 V logic families via external pull-up resistors.

It operates across –25°C to +85°C ambient temperature, features 1 kV HBM ESD rating, and maintains stable quiescent current independent of supply voltage-enabling reliable threshold detection in noisy motor drive and appliance control environments.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM293PE4 uses an 8-pin PDIP (Plastic Dual In-line Package) with body size 9.81 mm × 6.35 mm. Thermal performance is characterized by R_θJA = 73.7°C/W.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM293PE4, LM393DR trades temperature range for smaller footprint while maintaining offset and speed; LM2903P offers broader thermal qualification at the cost of 67% higher offset voltage-making it suitable for less precision-critical, harsher environments.

Availability

LM293PE4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for server PSU monitoring, cordless power tool battery management, and appliance motor control requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for LM293PE4 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 company headquartered in Dallas, Texas, delivering analog and embedded processing solutions for industrial, automotive, and personal electronics markets.

The LM293PE4 belongs to TI's legacy dual comparator product line, engineered for cost-sensitive applications demanding robust performance, wide supply range, and compatibility with legacy designs dating back to the 1970s.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for LM293PE4?

The absolute maximum supply voltage for LM293PE4 is 36 V, with recommended operation up to 30 V. Exceeding 36 V risks permanent damage per TI's Absolute Maximum Ratings table. The device is commonly used at 5 V, 12 V, or 24 V in industrial controls and power supplies, and its open-collector outputs remain functional across this full range when paired with appropriate pull-up resistors. LM293PE4 must not be operated above 36 V even momentarily.

Does LM293PE4 support rail-to-rail input operation?

LM293PE4 supports common-mode input voltage down to ground (0 V), but not up to VCC. Its common-mode range extends from GND to (VCC – 2 V) at room temperature, and to (VCC – 2.0 V) over full temperature range. This allows direct sensing of signals referenced to ground-such as current-sense amplifier outputs-but requires external attenuation if comparing voltages near VCC. The LM293PE4 datasheet explicitly states that either input may go up to VCC without damage, though only one needs to stay within the valid common-mode window for correct operation.

Can LM293PE4 outputs be wired together?

Yes, LM293PE4 outputs can be safely wired together in a wired-AND configuration because both are open-collector. When multiple LM293PE4 outputs share a single pull-up resistor, the combined node goes low if any comparator asserts-ideal for fault-bus architectures. Ensure total sink current does not exceed 20 mA per output (absolute max), and verify pull-up resistor value avoids excessive rise time given load capacitance. This behavior is intrinsic to the LM293PE4's output stage design and is confirmed in TI's Functional Description section.

What is the input bias current specification for LM293PE4?

The input bias current for LM293PE4 is typically –25 nA and up to –250 nA over temperature, as specified in the Electrical Characteristics table for LM293 (non-A/non-B versions). This bipolar-input architecture results in higher bias current than CMOS comparators, requiring careful selection of source impedance-ideally <10 kΩ-to avoid significant offset errors. At 25°C, typical bias is –25 nA; at full temperature range (–25°C to +85°C), maximum is –250 nA. LM293PE4 does not include ESD-optimized input clamps like the B-version devices.

Is LM293PE4 RoHS compliant and lead-free?

Yes, LM293PE4 is RoHS compliant and lead-free. Texas Instruments confirms RoHS compliance for all LM293PE4 orderable variants per their official product folder and packaging documentation. The "E4" suffix denotes tape-and-reel packaging with lead-free finish and green molding compound, meeting JEDEC J-STD-609 Category 1 moisture sensitivity and IPC/JEDEC J-STD-020 reflow profiles. No exemptions apply; Pb content is below 0.1 wt% across all homogeneous materials.