National LM386 Audio Power Amplifier Datasheet for Battery Operation

Description: This device has a quiescent power drain of 24 milliwatts when operating from a 6 V supply, making the LM386 ideal for battery operation. According to the application hints section of the LM386 datasheet, two pins (1 and 8) are provided for gain control, allowing this device to function as a versatile amplifier. A capacitor can be connected from pin 1 to pin 8 to bypass the gain control. Additionally, a 35 kOhm resistor can be placed in series with the capacitor, or a resistor (or FET) can be capacitively coupled from pin 1 to ground to set the gain. Typical applications for the LM386 can be found in circuit schematics, including an amplifier with gain settings of 20, 50, and 200, a low distortion power Wienbridge oscillator, an amplifier with bass boost, a square wave oscillator, and an AM radio power amplifier. The LM386 datasheet also contains comprehensive information regarding audio power amplifiers suitable for battery operation.

The LM386 is a low-voltage audio power amplifier designed to deliver high efficiency and low power consumption, making it particularly suitable for battery-powered applications. The quiescent power drain of 24 milliwatts at a 6 V supply ensures minimal energy usage during idle periods, which is crucial for extending battery life in portable devices.

The gain control feature provided through pins 1 and 8 enhances the versatility of the LM386, allowing for adjustable amplification based on specific circuit requirements. By connecting a capacitor between these pins, the frequency response and gain characteristics can be tailored. The addition of a 35 kOhm resistor in series with this capacitor can further refine the gain settings, enabling precise control over output levels. Furthermore, capacitively coupling a resistor or a field-effect transistor (FET) from pin 1 to ground offers an alternative method for setting gain, which can be beneficial in various applications.

The LM386's design supports multiple configurations, making it suitable for a range of audio applications. For instance, amplifiers can be constructed with gain settings of 20, 50, or 200, allowing for flexibility in signal amplification. The device can also be configured as a low distortion power Wienbridge oscillator, which is particularly useful in generating stable sine wave signals. Additionally, the LM386 can be employed in applications requiring bass boost, enhancing low-frequency audio performance.

In summary, the LM386 is a highly adaptable audio amplifier that caters to diverse electronic projects, particularly where low power consumption and battery operation are essential. The detailed specifications and application examples provided in the LM386 datasheet serve as a valuable resource for engineers and hobbyists aiming to implement this device in their designs.This device has 24 milliwatts quiescent power drain when operating from 6 V supply in which making the LM386 ideal for battery operation. It is stated in the application hints section ofLM386 datasheet, there are two pins (1 and 8 ) provided for gain control in order to make this device more versatile amplifier.

You can put a capacitor from pin 1 to 8 bypassing the 1. 35 kOhms resistor, placing a resistor in series with the capacitor, or capacitively coupling a resistor (or FET) from pin 1 to ground to set the gain. You will also see typical applications forLM386 in circuit schematici. e Amplifier with Gain (20, 50, 200), Low Distortion Power Wienbridge Oscillator (click to enlarge), Amplifier with Bass Boost, Square Wave Oscillator, and AM Radio Power Amplifier.

Please complete your read ofAudio Power Amplifier for Battery Operationin this LM386 Datasheet (source: national. com).