Microchip MCP6241UT-E/LT Operational Amplifier: Datasheet, Application Circuits, and Key Specifications
The Microchip MCP6241UT-E/LT is a single-channel, general-purpose operational amplifier (op-amp) that stands out for its exceptional combination of low power consumption and rail-to-rail input and output operation. Designed for battery-powered and portable applications, this op-amp offers a compelling blend of performance and efficiency, making it a versatile choice for a wide array of analog circuits.
Key Specifications
The MCP6241 is engineered with a focus on low-power operation without sacrificing critical performance parameters. Its key specifications include:
Low Quiescent Current: Typically 22 µA, making it ideal for battery-sensitive designs.
Rail-to-Rail Input and Output: The input common-mode voltage range extends beyond both supply rails (VSS – 0.3V to VDD + 0.3V), and the output voltage swings to within millivolts of the rails, maximizing the dynamic range in low-voltage systems.
Gain Bandwidth Product: 350 kHz provides sufficient speed for many DC and low-frequency AC applications, including transducers, sensors, and filters.
Low Supply Voltage Operation: Functions with a supply voltage range from 1.8V to 5.5V, compatible with two-cell battery configurations and standard 3.3V and 5V digital supplies.
Low Input Offset Voltage: Typically 500 µV, ensuring accuracy in precision amplification tasks.
Small Packaging: The MCP6241UT-E/LT is offered in a space-saving SC-70-5 package, perfect for compact PCB designs.
Datasheet Overview
The official datasheet is the ultimate source of information for design engineers. It provides comprehensive details, including:
Absolute Maximum Ratings: The limits for supply voltage, input voltage, and storage temperature.
Electrical Characteristics: Detailed tables with min/typ/max values for all parameters (offset voltage, bias current, bandwidth, etc.) under specified conditions.
Typical Performance Characteristics: Graphs illustrating behavior across temperature, supply voltage, and frequency.
Application Information: Guidance on decoupling, PCB layout, and typical connection diagrams.
Application Circuits
The MCP6241's specifications make it suitable for several fundamental circuit configurations:
1. Non-Inverting Amplifier: This classic circuit is perfect for sensor signal conditioning where a high input impedance and a gain defined by two resistors (G = 1 + Rf/Rg) are required. Its rail-to-rail input allows the sensor to output a signal very close to the supply rails.
2. Inverting Amplifier: Used for signal inversion and amplification. The rail-to-rail output ensures the maximum possible output swing for a given supply voltage.
3. Voltage Follower (Unity-Gain Buffer): This circuit is used for impedance matching, isolating a high-impedance source from a low-impedance load. The MCP6241's high input impedance and low output impedance make it an ideal candidate.
4. Active Low-Pass Filter: Its 350 kHz bandwidth is well-suited for constructing anti-aliasing filters or noise-reduction filters in data acquisition systems. A simple first-order RC filter can be enhanced with the op-amp to create a second-order Sallen-Key configuration without loading the RC network.
5. Comparator (with Hysteresis): While not as fast as a dedicated comparator, the MCP6241 can be used in low-speed applications like battery voltage monitoring or window comparators where its low power consumption is a major advantage. Adding positive feedback creates hysteresis for noise immunity.
The Microchip MCP6241UT-E/LT is a highly efficient and versatile op-amp champion for low-voltage, power-conscious designs. Its rail-to-rail input and output capability and remarkably low quiescent current make it an outstanding choice for amplifying signals from transducers, sensors, and other sources in portable equipment, medical devices, and automotive sensor interfaces. For designers prioritizing battery life and signal range in a minuscule package, the MCP6241 delivers a powerful and reliable solution.
Keywords:
1. Low Power Consumption
2. Rail-to-Rail I/O
3. Operational Amplifier
4. Sensor Signal Conditioning
5. SC-70 Package
