Analog Devices Inc. LT1496IS#PBF

Overview

LT1496IS#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a quad-channel, micropower, precision rail-to-rail input and output operational amplifier with Over-The-Top™ input capability. It delivers ≤1.5 µA supply current per amplifier, 375 µV max input offset voltage, and operates from 2.2 V to 36 V single supply (or ±15 V dual supply), enabling use in battery-powered sensor front-ends and high-voltage industrial monitoring circuits.

For engineers reviewing the LT1496IS#PBF datasheet, LT1496IS#PBF pinout, LT1496IS#PBF application, or LT1496IS#PBF equivalent, this page provides verified package mapping (14-pin SO), confirmed quad op amp topology, rail-to-rail I/O behavior, Over-The-Top input operation above V+, and real-world design implications for low-power precision signal conditioning in harsh environments.

Technical Context

The LT1496IS#PBF implements a three-stage architecture: a rail-to-rail input stage with parallel NPN/PNP differential pairs enabling Over-The-Top operation (inputs > V+), a folded-cascode second stage delivering high open-loop gain (≥100 V/mV into 100 kΩ), and a rail-to-rail common-emitter output stage supporting ±500 µA load current with <100 mV saturation voltage at light loads.

Its input bias current remains ≤250 pA (typical) across –0.3 V to 36 V common-mode range, and reverse-battery protection withstands –18 V. The device maintains stable performance over –40°C to 125°C (H-grade), with PSRR and CMRR both ≥90 dB at 5 V supply, ensuring robustness in noisy industrial and automotive sensor interfaces.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LT1496IS#PBF is housed in a 14-lead plastic small-outline (SO-14) package with standard quad op amp pinout and 1.27 mm pitch. Pin 1 is marked with a dot or bevel; the package meets JEDEC MS-012AC standards and is RoHS-compliant.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar quad micropower precision op amp applications.

Compared with LT1674CS#PBF and LT1490ACS#PBF, the LT1496IS#PBF uniquely balances ultra-low power (1.5 µA), precision (375 µV V_OS), unity-gain stability, and Over-The-Top input - making it the only choice for long-life, high-accuracy, high-common-mode industrial sensor signal chains.

Availability

LT1496IS#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for battery-powered instrumentation, remote sensor amplification, and industrial 4–20 mA transmitter designs requiring stable component supply across extended temperature ranges and long production lifecycles.

Supply support for LT1496IS#PBF 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

Analog Devices acquired Linear Technology in 2017 and maintains full product support, qualification, and manufacturing continuity for the LT1496IS#PBF and its legacy portfolio.

The LT1496IS#PBF belongs to Linear's Over-The-Top™ precision op amp family, designed specifically for ultra-low-power, high-common-mode industrial and automotive signal conditioning where inputs exceed the supply rail and battery life is critical.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for LT1496IS#PBF?

The LT1496IS#PBF has an absolute maximum total supply voltage (V+ to V–) of 36 V. It operates reliably across a recommended supply range of 2.2 V to 36 V single supply or ±2.2 V to ±15 V dual supply. Exceeding 36 V risks permanent damage, and operation below 2.2 V may result in degraded rail-to-rail output swing and increased offset voltage.

Does LT1496IS#PBF support true Over-The-Top input operation, and what does that mean in practice?

Yes, the LT1496IS#PBF supports true Over-The-Top™ input operation: its inputs function correctly even when biased up to 36 V - well above the positive supply rail (e.g., V+ = 5 V). In practice, this enables direct high-side current sensing without level-shifting circuitry, simplifying designs for 12 V/24 V automotive and industrial systems while maintaining precision and low power.

What is the guaranteed operating temperature range for LT1496IS#PBF?

The LT1496IS#PBF is the H-grade variant and is guaranteed to meet all specifications over the full industrial temperature range of –40°C to +125°C. This includes parameters such as input offset voltage (225–875 µV), supply current (2–5 µA), and open-loop gain (4–25 V/mV), making it suitable for under-hood automotive and high-ambient industrial applications.

Can LT1496IS#PBF drive capacitive loads, and what is the maximum stable value?

The LT1496IS#PBF can drive capacitive loads up to 500 pF when the output is biased near mid-supply (e.g., V_OUT ≈ V+/2) and gain ≥ 10. However, if the output operates within ~100 mV of the positive rail (e.g., V_OUT > V+ – 100 mV), the stable capacitive load limit drops to <100 pF with a 30 V supply or <500 pF with a 5 V supply - as confirmed in the Capacitive Load Handling graph (Fig. 1495 G12) of the datasheet.

How does reverse battery protection work on LT1496IS#PBF, and what is its limit?

The LT1496IS#PBF incorporates internal reverse-polarity protection rated to –18 V. During reverse battery conditions (e.g., –12 V applied to V+ with V– grounded), supply current drops to <100 nA (with inputs grounded and outputs open), preventing damage and excessive drain. No external diode is required for basic protection, though external current-limiting resistors are advised if inputs or outputs are exposed to reverse voltage.