Analog Devices Inc. LT1920CN8#PBF

Overview

LT1920CN8#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a precision instrumentation amplifier requiring only one external resistor to set gain from 1 to 10,000. It delivers 7.5nV/√Hz input voltage noise at 1kHz, 0.3% max gain error at G=10, and 125µV max input offset voltage, enabling high-accuracy bridge and strain gauge signal conditioning in industrial sensor interfaces.

For engineers reviewing the LT1920CN8#PBF datasheet, LT1920CN8#PBF pinout, LT1920CN8#PBF application, or LT1920CN8#PBF equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, validated 8-pin PDIP pin mapping, confirmed ESD robustness (13kV HBM), IEC 1000-4-2 Level 4 compliance with two 5kΩ resistors, and real-world medical and barometric pressure use cases.

Technical Context

The LT1920CN8#PBF implements a modified three-op-amp architecture with laser-trimmed 24.7kΩ internal resistors and superbeta NPN input transistors. Its gain equation G = 1 + (49.4kΩ/RG) enables precise programmability while maintaining low drift (1µV/°C) and high CMRR (75dB min at G=1).

Input bias current is limited to 2nA max via superbeta processing, and the output drives capacitive loads up to 1000pF without instability. The REF pin establishes output reference potential, and the design supports single-supply operation when REF is tied to V–, provided inputs remain within specified common-mode range.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

LT1920CN8#PBF is housed in an 8-lead plastic DIP (PDIP) package (N8), with 0.300-inch width, 150°C maximum junction temperature, and 130°C/W thermal resistance (θ_JA). This through-hole package supports manual prototyping and legacy PCB designs requiring socketed analog signal conditioning.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar instrumentation amplifier applications.

Compared with LT1920CN8#PBF, LT1167CN8#PBF offers superior DC accuracy and speed at higher power, while AD620ANZ provides mechanical compatibility but inferior noise, drift, and ESD immunity - making LT1920CN8#PBF the optimal balance of precision, ruggedness, and cost for industrial sensor interfaces.

Availability

LT1920CN8#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for bridge amplifiers, strain gauge interfaces, and thermocouple signal conditioning requiring stable component supply across industrial, test & measurement, and medical OEM programs.

Supply support for LT1920CN8#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, Inc. (including former Linear Technology assets) is a global leader in high-performance analog, mixed-signal, and digital signal processing semiconductors for precision measurement and control.

The LT1920CN8#PBF belongs to Linear's precision instrumentation amplifier product line, designed specifically for low-drift, low-noise amplification of weak differential sensor signals in harsh electrical environments.

FAQ

What is the maximum gain achievable with LT1920CN8#PBF?

The LT1920CN8#PBF supports a gain range of 1 to 10,000, set by a single external resistor RG using the formula G = 1 + (49.4kΩ/RG). At G=10,000, RG = 4.94Ω (±1% tolerance recommended); the LT1920CN8#PBF maintains stability and specified accuracy across this full range, including 30ppm max nonlinearity at G=10 and 12kHz bandwidth at G=1000.

Does LT1920CN8#PBF require external trimming for offset voltage?

No, the LT1920CN8#PBF is laser trimmed at wafer level for input offset voltage (125µV max), drift (1µV/°C), CMRR (75dB min), and PSRR (80dB min), eliminating the need for external offset nulling in most applications. An optional external op-amp-based trim circuit is documented in the datasheet (Figure 2) only for cases demanding sub-50µV RTI offset - the LT1920CN8#PBF itself does not include internal trim pins.

Can LT1920CN8#PBF operate from a single supply?

Yes, the LT1920CN8#PBF supports single-supply operation when the REF pin is tied to the negative supply rail (Pin 4), provided both inputs remain within the specified common-mode range (e.g., ≥2.5V above ground for ±5V-equivalent operation) and the output stays within its swing limits. The barometer application shown in the LT1920CN8#PBF datasheet demonstrates this configuration with a 3V output swing referenced to ground.

What package type is used for LT1920CN8#PBF?

The LT1920CN8#PBF uses an 8-lead plastic DIP (PDIP) package designated N8, with 0.300-inch body width and through-hole mounting. This package has θ_JA = 130°C/W, supports operating temperatures from 0°C to 70°C (C-grade), and is compatible with standard DIP sockets and wave-soldering processes - distinct from the SO-8 variant LT1920CS8#PBF.

How does LT1920CN8#PBF achieve IEC 1000-4-2 Level 4 ESD compliance?

The LT1920CN8#PBF achieves IEC 1000-4-2 Level 4 (8kV contact / 15kV air) compliance when two external 5kΩ resistors are placed in series with each input (IN+ and IN−), as validated in the datasheet. These resistors limit fault current during ESD events while preserving signal integrity; the LT1920CN8#PBF's internal 13kV HBM rating provides foundational robustness, and the external network extends it to full system-level immunity.