STMicroelectronics LM293PT

Overview

LM293PT from STMicroelectronics is a dual low-voltage comparator IC designed for single-supply operation from 2 V to 36 V (or ±1 V to ±18 V), featuring ±1 mV typical input offset voltage, 20 nA typical input bias current, and 0.45 mA supply current at 5 V. It supports TTL/DTL/ECL/MOS/CMOS logic interfacing and operates with input common-mode voltage range including ground - enabling direct sensing of signals referenced to system ground in industrial control and power management circuits.

For engineers reviewing the LM293PT datasheet, LM293PT pinout, LM293PT application, or LM293PT equivalent, key selection criteria include its rail-to-rail differential input capability, low output saturation voltage (80 mV @ 4 mA sink), wide temperature range (–40 °C to +105 °C), and TSSOP8 packaging suitable for space-constrained PCB layouts requiring high-density analog signal conditioning.

Technical Context

The LM293PT implements two independent open-collector comparators with PNP input stages, enabling ground-sensing operation even under single-supply conditions. Its input stage allows common-mode voltages down to –0.3 V relative to VCC–, and differential inputs up to full supply rails (±36 V), supporting robust signal detection across noisy industrial environments.

Output stage design delivers 6 mA minimum sink current with 80 mV typical saturation voltage at 4 mA load, ensuring reliable interface with 5 V TTL and 3.3 V CMOS logic families. Propagation delay is 1.3 μs (100 mV step, 5 mV overdrive) and improves to 300 ns with larger overdrive - critical for zero-crossing detection and fast threshold monitoring.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LM293PT is packaged in a RoHS-compliant TSSOP8 (Thin Shrink Small Outline Package, 3.0 mm × 6.4 mm, 0.65 mm pitch) with exposed thermal pad optional for enhanced thermal dissipation. Pin 1 is marked by a dot or beveled corner.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM393PT and LM2903PT, the LM293PT uniquely combines industrial temperature range (–40 °C to +105 °C), verified 2 kV HBM ESD protection, and identical performance to the legacy LM393 - making it the preferred choice for long-lifecycle industrial control and power conversion designs.

Availability

LM293PT is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation, power supply supervision, and sensor interface applications requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and multi-year production cycles.

Supply support for LM293PT 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

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, delivering innovative silicon solutions for automotive, industrial, and smart power applications since 1987.

The LM293PT belongs to ST's precision analog comparator product line, engineered specifically for robust, low-power, ground-referenced signal comparison in industrial and automotive subsystems where reliability and long-term availability are critical.

FAQ

Can LM293PT operate from a single 3.3 V supply?

Yes. The LM293PT supports single-supply operation from 2 V to 36 V, including 3.3 V. At this voltage, its input common-mode range extends from ground to 1.8 V (VCC+ − 1.5 V), and output saturation remains below 400 mV at 4 mA sink - ensuring clean logic-level transitions when paired with 3.3 V pull-up resistors.

Does LM293PT require external pull-up resistors on its outputs?

Yes. Both outputs are open-collector and must be pulled up to a voltage rail (e.g., VCC+ or another logic supply) via external resistors. Typical values range from 1 kΩ to 10 kΩ depending on sink current and rise time requirements. No internal pull-ups are present.

What is the maximum sink current per output of LM293PT?

The LM293PT guarantees a minimum sink current of 6 mA per output at VO = 1.5 V and Vid = 1 V, with typical performance reaching 18 mA. Absolute maximum ratings permit indefinite short-circuit to ground, but thermal limits apply - junction temperature must remain below 150 °C under sustained load.

Is LM293PT pin-compatible with LM393 series devices?

Yes. LM293PT shares identical pinout, electrical behavior, and package dimensions with LM393PT, LM2903PT, and LM393W in TSSOP8. However, LM293PT is uniquely qualified for –40 °C to +105 °C operation and features 2 kV HBM ESD protection - distinguishing it in industrial deployment scenarios.