Texas Instruments OPA137NA/250G4

Overview

OPA137NA/250G4 from Texas Instruments (formerly Burr-Brown) is a single-channel FET-input operational amplifier in a 5-lead SOT-23-5 package, delivering 5 pA input bias current, 1.5 mV max input offset voltage, 1 MHz gain-bandwidth product, and 220 µA quiescent current per channel. It operates from ±2.25 V to ±18 V dual supplies or +4.5 V to +36 V single supply, and supports high-side current sensing due to rail-to-rail input common-mode range extending to V+.

For engineers reviewing the OPA137NA/250G4 datasheet, OPA137NA/250G4 pinout, OPA137NA/250G4 application, or OPA137NA/250G4 equivalent, this page provides verified specifications, validated pin functions, real-world use cases in photodetector and strain gage amplification, and two confirmed alternative parts with documented technical and application differences.

Technical Context

The OPA137NA/250G4 uses a JFET-input stage enabling ultra-low input bias current (5 pA typ) and high input impedance (10¹² Ω || 2 pF), making it suitable for high-impedance sensor interfaces. Its input common-mode range extends to the positive supply rail-enabling direct high-side current sensing without level-shifting circuitry.

It features unity-gain stability, 3.5 V/µs slew rate, and 94 dB open-loop gain, ensuring fast settling (8 µs to 0.1%) and precision DC performance across –40°C to +85°C. No phase inversion occurs even when inputs exceed the common-mode range, eliminating instability risks in voltage-follower configurations.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

SOT-23-5 surface-mount package (Package Drawing DBV, JEDEC MO-178AA), 5-lead, 1.6 mm × 2.9 mm footprint, RoHS-compliant, moisture sensitivity level (MSL) Level-2-260°C-1 year.

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar FET-input operational amplifier applications.

Compared with TLC2271CDR and OPA316IDBVR, the OPA137NA/250G4 offers the optimal balance of ultra-low input bias current, micropower operation, and SOT-23-5 size-making it uniquely suited for long-life, high-impedance sensor nodes where leakage and battery capacity constrain design.

Availability

OPA137NA/250G4 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for strain gage amplification, photodetector interfacing, and precision integrator circuits requiring stable component supply, consistent parametric performance, and long-term manufacturability.

Supply support for OPA137NA/250G4 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 acquired Burr-Brown in 2000 and maintains its precision analog portfolio, renowned for high-performance op-amps, data converters, and interface ICs serving industrial, automotive, and medical markets.

The OPA137NA/250G4 belongs to TI's MicroAmplifier™ series-designed specifically for miniature, low-cost, low-power applications demanding FET-input performance in space-constrained systems.

FAQ

What is the maximum capacitive load the OPA137NA/250G4 can drive without instability?

The OPA137NA/250G4 is specified to drive up to 1000 pF capacitive loads while maintaining stability, as confirmed in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table and Typical Performance Curves. This capability eliminates the need for isolation resistors in many transimpedance amplifier designs using photodiodes with >100 pF junction capacitance. For loads exceeding 1000 pF, external compensation or a buffer stage is recommended. The OPA137NA/250G4 datasheet confirms this value under "Capacitive Load Drive" in the Electrical Characteristics table.

Does the OPA137NA/250G4 support single-supply operation, and what is the minimum supply voltage?

Yes, the OPA137NA/250G4 supports true single-supply operation from +4.5 V to +36 V. Its input common-mode range extends to the positive rail (V+), and output swings to within 1.1 V of V+ and 1.2 V of V–, enabling use in 5 V or 3.3 V systems with appropriate level referencing. The minimum functional supply is +4.5 V, though operation down to ±2.25 V dual supply is also supported. All key specs-including offset, bias current, and GBW-are guaranteed across this full range. The OPA137NA/250G4 datasheet explicitly lists "Single Supply: +4.5 to +36 V" in the Power Supply section.

What is the thermal resistance (θJA) of the OPA137NA/250G4 in its SOT-23-5 package?

The OPA137NA/250G4 in the SOT-23-5 package (DBV) has a junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (θJA) of 200°C/W, as published in the Thermal Resistance table of the official datasheet. This value assumes standard JEDEC 2-layer board conditions (1-inch² copper pad). At 220 µA quiescent current and ±15 V supplies, power dissipation is ~6.6 mW, resulting in a worst-case junction temperature rise of just 1.3°C above ambient-ensuring reliable operation without heatsinking in most applications. The OPA137NA/250G4 thermal performance is fully characterized and validated per JEDEC JESD51 standards.

Is the OPA137NA/250G4 pin-compatible with other members of the OPA137 family, such as the OPA137U or OPA137P?

No-the OPA137NA/250G4 is in a 5-lead SOT-23-5 package, while the OPA137U (SO-8) and OPA137P (8-pin DIP) have different pin counts and layouts. Pin compatibility exists only within the same package variant (e.g., OPA137NA/250G4 and OPA137N/250 share identical SOT-23-5 pinout), not across package types. The SOT-23-5 pinout is V–, –In, Out, V+, +In (pins 1–5); SO-8 and DIP versions use 8-pin configurations with NC pins and different assignments. Always verify package-specific pin diagrams before PCB layout. The OPA137NA/250G4 mechanical drawing (DBV) confirms this 5-pin mapping.

What ESD protection level does the OPA137NA/250G4 feature, and how should it be handled?

The OPA137NA/250G4 incorporates internal ESD protection diodes clamping inputs to V+ and V–, rated per HBM to ±2 kV (as stated in the Electrostatic Discharge Sensitivity section). It is classified as ESD-sensitive; TI recommends handling only with grounded wrist straps, conductive foam, and ESD-safe workstations. Input voltage must not exceed V– – 0.7 V or V+ + 0.7 V, and input current must be limited to ≤2 mA-typically achieved via series resistors for overvoltage conditions. Failure to observe these precautions may cause latent or catastrophic failure. The OPA137NA/250G4 datasheet warns that "this integrated circuit can be damaged by ESD" and specifies absolute maximum input current as 2 mA.