Analog Devices Inc. LTC1250CN8#PBF

Overview

LTC1250CN8#PBF from Analog Devices (formerly Linear Technology) is a precision zero-drift operational amplifier optimized for low-noise bridge and thermocouple signal conditioning. It delivers 0.75 µV_P-P input-referred noise (0.1 Hz to 10 Hz), 10 µV max input offset voltage, and 110 dB min CMRR - enabling high-resolution data acquisition in electronic scales and strain gauge amplifiers with ±5 V supplies.

For engineers reviewing the LTC1250CN8#PBF datasheet, LTC1250CN8#PBF pinout, LTC1250CN8#PBF application, or LTC1250CN8#PBF equivalent, key selection criteria include its 5 kHz internal nulling clock frequency, industry-standard 8-pin DIP pinout, full output swing into 1 kΩ, and compatibility with low-impedance transducer interfaces requiring sub-microvolt DC stability.

Technical Context

The LTC1250CN8#PBF employs a chopper-stabilized architecture with a 5 kHz internal sampling clock to cancel 1/f drift and thermal offset, achieving 50 nV/°C max offset drift and 0.35 µV_P-P DC-to-1 Hz noise - outperforming OP-07 and LT1012 in ultra-low-frequency precision. Its front-end uses large-geometry CMOS transistors to minimize thermal noise while maintaining rail-to-rail common-mode input range with single-supply operation above 11 V.

It integrates an enhanced output stage capable of ±4.9 V swing into 5 kΩ and 4.3 V into 1 kΩ with ±5 V supplies, supports indefinite output short-circuit duration, and features no external nulling components required. Input bias current remains ≤ ±150 pA at 25°C, with input capacitance of 55 pF per input to V+, necessitating careful feedback compensation for stability in high-impedance configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 8-lead plastic DIP (N8), 0.300-inch width, through-hole mounting, JEDEC MS-001 compliant. RoHS-compliant lead finish (Pb-free with NiPdAu plating).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with LTC2050CS8#PBF, the LTC1250CN8#PBF offers higher output drive, wider supply range, and superior low-frequency noise floor for legacy ±5 V industrial systems; versus LTC2053IMS8#PBF, it provides greater design flexibility in gain and feedback topology at the cost of external resistor matching requirements.

Availability

LTC1250CN8#PBF is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for electronic scales, strain gauge amplifiers, thermocouple measurement systems, and high-resolution data acquisition requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for LTC1250CN8#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 continuity, documentation, and technical support for all Linear-branded precision analog ICs.

The LTC1250CN8#PBF belongs to Linear's zero-drift op amp family, engineered specifically for DC-precision sensor signal conditioning in instrumentation, industrial automation, and test equipment where sub-microvolt offset and nanovolt-per-degree drift are mandatory.

FAQ

What is the maximum supply voltage rating for the LTC1250CN8#PBF?

The LTC1250CN8#PBF has an absolute maximum total supply voltage (V+ to V–) of 18 V. Operation beyond this limit risks permanent damage. For reliable long-term use, Analog Devices specifies recommended operating conditions of ±2.375 V to ±8 V, with typical performance characterized at ±5 V. Exceeding 18 V violates Absolute Maximum Ratings and voids warranty coverage.

Does the LTC1250CN8#PBF require external capacitors for offset nulling?

No, the LTC1250CN8#PBF does not require external capacitors or nulling connections. Its internal auto-zero architecture uses a 5 kHz sampling clock to continuously correct input offset and 1/f noise. Unlike older precision op amps such as the OP-07, the LTC1250CN8#PBF achieves ±10 µV max offset and 50 nV/°C drift without trim pots, external clocks, or capacitor networks - simplifying layout and reducing calibration overhead.

Can the LTC1250CN8#PBF operate from a single 5 V supply?

Yes, the LTC1250CN8#PBF supports single-supply operation down to 4.5 V. With a 5 V supply (V+ = 5 V, V– = GND), it delivers a typical output swing of 4.3 V into 1 kΩ and common-mode input range extending to within 250 mV of ground. For true rail-to-rail input capability, V+ must exceed 11 V to include ground in the input common-mode range - making it suitable for most bridge transducer interfaces powered from 5 V.

What is the purpose of the NC pins on the LTC1250CN8#PBF?

The LTC1250CN8#PBF has three no-connect (NC) pins: Pins 1, 5, and 8. These terminals are not bonded internally and serve no electrical function. They must remain unconnected - neither tied to supply rails nor used for grounding or decoupling. Leaving them floating is acceptable; however, Analog Devices recommends avoiding routing sensitive traces near these pins to prevent unintended capacitive coupling in high-gain layouts.

How does the LTC1250CN8#PBF compare to the OP-07 in low-frequency noise performance?

The LTC1250CN8#PBF significantly outperforms the OP-07 below 1 Hz: it delivers 0.35 µV_P-P DC-to-1 Hz noise versus OP-07's ~0.6 µV_P-P, and 0.75 µV_P-P (0.1–10 Hz) versus OP-07's ~1.0 µV_P-P. This advantage stems from its zero-drift architecture, which actively cancels 1/f noise - whereas the OP-07 relies on bipolar input stages with inherent flicker noise. The LTC1250CN8#PBF is therefore preferred in weigh-scale and thermocouple applications demanding sub-µV resolution.