Texas Instruments LM8261M5

Overview

LM8261M5 from Texas Instruments is a single rail-to-rail input/output operational amplifier optimized for high-output-current, unlimited capacitive load driving, and wide supply operation. It delivers 24MHz gain-bandwidth, 35V/µs slew rate, ±125mA short-circuit output current, and operates from 2.7V to 32V - enabling use as a TFT-LCD VCOM driver, A/D converter buffer, or headphone amplifier.

For engineers reviewing the LM8261M5 datasheet, LM8261M5 pinout, LM8261M5 application, or LM8261M5 equivalent, key selection criteria include guaranteed unlimited capacitive load stability, rail-to-rail I/O at 3V supply, low 12nV/√Hz input voltage noise, and SOT-23-5 package compatibility with space-constrained analog signal paths.

Technical Context

The LM8261M5 employs a proprietary output stage architecture that maintains stability into infinite capacitive loads without external isolation resistors - a critical feature for flat-panel display buffering and fast-settling data acquisition front-ends. Its input stage achieves >90dB common-mode rejection across the full supply range (V− to V+), supporting accurate high-side and low-side current sensing without level-shifting circuitry.

Designed for robustness in industrial and display systems, the device exhibits minimal sensitivity to supply variation: PSRR remains ≤±22μV/V over 5V–32V, and thermal resistance is specified at 185.4°C/W (SOT-23-5), enabling reliable operation up to +85°C ambient with appropriate PCB copper area.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

The LM8261M5 is housed in a 5-pin SOT-23 package (2.9mm × 2.8mm), optimized for compact PCB layouts and automated assembly.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar op-amp applications.

Compared with OPA350UA and TLV2461CDBVR, the LM8261M5 uniquely balances high output current, unlimited capacitive load stability, and wide supply range - making it irreplaceable in TFT-LCD VCOM and industrial high-side sensing where both drive strength and voltage flexibility are mandatory.

Availability

LM8261M5 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for TFT-LCD panel manufacturing, industrial data acquisition systems, and portable audio equipment requiring stable component supply across extended temperature and voltage ranges.

Supply support for LM8261M5 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, embedded processing, and digital signal technologies, with decades of expertise in high-performance op-amps and precision signal chains.

The LM8261M5 belongs to TI's precision rail-to-rail op-amp product line, engineered specifically for demanding analog interface applications including flat-panel display biasing, sensor signal conditioning, and audio output stages where output drive, noise, and stability are critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum capacitive load the LM8261M5 can drive without external compensation?

The LM8261M5 is explicitly characterized and guaranteed to drive unlimited capacitive loads - including 100nF, 1µF, or larger - without oscillation or instability. This capability is validated across its full operating range (2.7V–32V, −40°C to +85°C) and eliminates the need for series isolation resistors in LCD VCOM or ADC buffer designs. The LM8261M5 achieves this via an internally compensated output stage architecture distinct from conventional op-amps.

Does the LM8261M5 support true rail-to-rail input operation at 3V supply?

Yes, the LM8261M5 provides rail-to-rail input common-mode voltage range from V− to V+, verified down to 3V total supply (e.g., V+ = 3V, V− = 0V). At this condition, the input stage maintains ≥90dB CMRR and linear operation across the full 0–3V range - enabling direct interfacing with 3.3V microcontroller ADC references or low-voltage sensor outputs without level-shifting circuitry. This behavior is confirmed in the Electrical Characteristics table under "Input Common-Mode Voltage Range".

What is the thermal resistance (RθJA) of the LM8261M5 in its SOT-23-5 package?

For the LM8261M5 in the DBV (SOT-23-5) package, the junction-to-ambient thermal resistance RθJA is 185.4°C/W under standard JEDEC test conditions (single-layer board, no copper pour). This value assumes minimal PCB copper area; adding thermal vias and 1-inch² copper pour beneath the pad can reduce effective RθJA by ~30–40%. The LM8261M5's maximum junction temperature is 150°C, so at 32V supply and full ±125mA output, thermal design must ensure ambient temperature stays below ~75°C with adequate heatsinking.

Can the LM8261M5 be used in single-supply 5V applications with AC-coupled headphone output?

Yes, the LM8261M5 is fully qualified for single-supply 5V operation and commonly deployed as a headphone amplifier. Its rail-to-rail output delivers >3.5VPP into 32Ω loads with <0.00022% THD+N at 1kHz, and its 35V/µs slew rate ensures distortion-free reproduction of audio transients. For AC coupling, a 220µF output capacitor blocks DC offset while preserving bass response down to 20Hz. The LM8261M5's 1.35mA quiescent current also supports battery longevity in portable designs.

How does the LM8261M5 handle output short-circuit conditions?

The LM8261M5 features robust short-circuit protection with guaranteed ±125mA output current into ground or either supply rail. Momentary shorts are tolerated indefinitely at all supply voltages; however, sustained short conditions - especially above 15V supply - cause junction temperature to rise rapidly due to power dissipation (P = I_SC × V_S). Thermal shutdown is not integrated, so external current limiting or fault monitoring is recommended in safety-critical systems. The LM8261M5's absolute maximum rating specifies continuous short-circuit operation only at V_S ≤ 12V per datasheet Section 5.1.