Texas Instruments LP339M

Overview

LP339M from National Semiconductor is an ultra-low power quad voltage comparator designed for single-supply operation with 60 µA typical supply current, ±2 mV input offset voltage, and ground-sensing capability-ideal for battery-powered CMOS interface applications such as limit detection and time-delay generators.

For engineers reviewing the LP339M datasheet, LP339M pinout, LP339M application, or LP339M equivalent, key selection considerations include its bi-modal output sink (30 mA at VO=2 VDC / 700 µA at VO=0.4 VDC), input common-mode range extending to ground, and SOIC-14 package compatibility with LM339 pinout.

Technical Context

The LP339M implements four independent PNP-input comparators with a common-mode input range from −0.3 V to V₊−1.5 V (at 25°C), enabling ground-referenced sensing on single +5 V to +30 V supplies. Its output stage uses a dual-mode Darlington/grounded-emitter configuration to deliver high sink current while maintaining ultra-low quiescent power.

Input bias current is 2.5 nA (typ), offset current ±0.5 nA (typ), and large-signal response time is 1.3 µs (with 100 mV step, 5 mV overdrive). The device supports split-supply operation and tolerates differential input voltages up to ±36 V without damage.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LP339M is housed in a 14-pin SOIC (Small Outline Integrated Circuit) package per NS Package Number M14A, with standard 1.27 mm pitch and surface-mount footprint compatible with JEDEC MS-012.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LM339M and TLV339IPW, the LP339M uniquely balances ultra-low 60 µA supply current, ground-sensing capability, and quad integration in SOIC-14-making it optimal for cost-sensitive, battery-operated systems needing reliable analog thresholding without layout overhead.

Availability

LP339M is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, industrial sensor interfaces, and CMOS-compatible timing circuits requiring stable component supply across long production lifecycles.

Supply support for LP339M 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

National Semiconductor was a U.S.-based analog semiconductor pioneer, acquired by Texas Instruments in 2011; known for high-reliability linear ICs and industry-standard reference designs.

The LP339M belongs to National's ultra-low-power comparator product line, engineered specifically for energy-constrained applications where ground-referenced sensing and CMOS interoperability are essential.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage for LP339M?

The LP339M supports a maximum supply voltage of 36 VDC on single supply or ±18 VDC on split supply, as specified in Absolute Maximum Ratings. Operation beyond these limits risks permanent device damage. For reliable long-term use, design within the recommended 2–30 VDC single-supply range documented in Electrical Characteristics.

Does LP339M support true ground-referenced input operation?

Yes, the LP339M features an input common-mode voltage range that explicitly includes ground (0 V), even when powered from a single positive supply. This allows direct comparison of signals referenced to system ground-critical for battery monitoring, zero-crossing detection, and sensor interfaces where negative rails are unavailable.

Can LP339M outputs be wired together for OR logic?

Yes, all four outputs of the LP339M are open-collector and uncommitted, allowing direct wire-OR connection without external diodes. This enables compact logic functions like alarm aggregation or priority encoding. Ensure a single shared pull-up resistor is used, sized to maintain VO(HI) within CMOS input thresholds under worst-case loading.

What is the significance of LP339M's bi-modal output stage?

The LP339M's bi-modal output delivers 30 mA sink current when VO ≥ 1.5 V (Darlington mode) for driving LEDs or relays, and ~700 µA at VO ≤ 0.4 V (grounded-emitter mode) for clean low-voltage logic transitions. This dual behavior eliminates need for external current-boosting transistors while preserving low-level compatibility with MOS/CMOS inputs.

Is LP339M pin-compatible with LM339 series devices?

Yes, the LP339M has identical pinout and terminal assignment to the LM339 family (including LM339M), enabling drop-in replacement in existing designs. However, note that LP339M draws only 60 µA versus LM339's 1.6 mA-so power supply filtering and thermal design may require adjustment despite mechanical compatibility.