Texas Instruments TLC1079CN

Overview

TLC1079CN from Texas Instruments is a quad-channel LinCMOS™ µPOWER precision operational amplifier optimized for ultra-low-voltage, low-power systems. It delivers 450–850 µV max input offset voltage (C-suffix), 0.6 pA typical input bias current, 47 V/ms typical slew rate, and operates down to 1.4 V supply - enabling direct use with silver-oxide watch batteries in portable medical sensors and battery-powered instrumentation.

For engineers reviewing the TLC1079CN datasheet, TLC1079CN pinout, TLC1079CN application, or TLC1079CN equivalent, key selection criteria include rail-to-rail output swing, negative-rail common-mode input capability, 110-kHz unity-gain bandwidth, and compatibility with legacy TLC27L7/9 designs requiring precision, low-quiescent-current amplification.

Technical Context

The TLC1079CN integrates four independent high-impedance LinCMOS™ op-amps on a single die, each featuring ESD protection rated to 2000 V (MIL-PRF-38535 Method 3015.2) and latch-up immunity under ±100 mA surge currents. Its architecture supports operation across 0°C to 70°C with guaranteed performance at VDD = 1.4 V minimum.

Each amplifier provides rail-to-rail output swing and extends common-mode input voltage below the negative rail (down to –0.2 V at VDD = 5 V), enabling true single-supply signal conditioning in sensor front-ends and low-voltage data acquisition circuits without level-shifting circuitry.

Key Specifications

Pinout & Package

Package: 14-pin plastic DIP (N package), 0°C to 70°C operating range (C-suffix).

Key Features

Applications

Equivalent & Alternatives

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

Compared with TLC27L9CN, TLC1079CN offers 40% lower input offset voltage and >1000× faster slew rate - critical for fast-settling sensor interfaces. Versus TLV2474CDR, it retains through-hole compatibility and consumes <5% the quiescent power, making it optimal for retrofitting low-power DIP-based systems.

Availability

TLC1079CN is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for portable medical sensors, low-voltage data acquisition systems, and industrial sensor transmitters requiring stable component supply across extended production lifecycles.

Supply support for TLC1079CN 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 is a global semiconductor leader specializing in analog and embedded processing technologies, with decades of heritage in precision op-amp design and manufacturing.

The TLC107x family was engineered specifically for ultra-low-power, high-precision analog signal conditioning in battery-constrained applications - emphasizing micropower operation, rail-to-rail performance, and robustness in portable and industrial environments.

FAQ

What is the minimum supply voltage for reliable operation of the TLC1079CN?

The TLC1079CN is specified to operate reliably down to 1.4 V supply voltage, enabling direct use with silver-oxide watch batteries (nominal 1.55 V) and extending runtime in single-cell portable instruments. At this voltage, all key parameters - including input offset voltage, common-mode range, and output swing - remain within datasheet limits across the 0°C to 70°C temperature range.

Does the TLC1079CN support rail-to-rail input operation?

The TLC1079CN supports rail-to-rail *output* swing but does not provide rail-to-rail *input* common-mode range. Its inputs extend 0.2 V below the negative rail (GND) and up to VDD – 1 V, allowing true single-supply operation with signals referenced below ground - such as bridge sensor outputs - while maintaining precision without external level shifting.

Can the TLC1079CN replace the TLC27L9CN in an existing design without layout changes?

Yes - the TLC1079CN is pin-compatible and functionally compatible with the TLC27L9CN in the same 14-pin DIP (N) package. No PCB modifications are required. Upgrading delivers significantly improved performance: 45% lower max input offset voltage (850 µV vs. 1500 µV), 1000× higher slew rate (47 V/ms vs. 0.045 V/ms), and enhanced low-voltage operation starting at 1.4 V.

What is the typical input bias current of the TLC1079CN, and why does it matter?

The TLC1079CN has a typical input bias current of 0.6 pA, enabled by its LinCMOS™ input stage. This ultra-low value prevents loading errors in high-impedance circuits - such as pH electrodes (>1 GΩ), photodiode transimpedance amplifiers, or thermistor bridges - ensuring accurate DC gain and minimal offset drift caused by source resistance interaction.

How does the TLC1079CN handle ESD events in portable device applications?

The TLC1079CN incorporates on-chip ESD-protection circuitry rated to 2000 V per MIL-PRF-38535 Method 3015.2. This built-in protection reduces or eliminates the need for external TVS diodes in handheld medical or test equipment, simplifying BOM and layout while maintaining functional integrity during routine handling and connector insertion.