LM124 Quad Operational Amplifier

Overview

The LM124 series consists of four independent, high-gain, internally frequency-compensated operational amplifiers designed specifically for single-power-supply operation across a wide voltage range. These amplifiers can also operate from split power supplies while maintaining low power consumption, which remains stable regardless of the supply voltage magnitude. The LM124 is widely used in industrial, automotive, and consumer applications due to its robust performance and versatility.

Features

• Internally Frequency Compensated for Unity Gain: Ensures stable operation without requiring external components.
• Large DC Voltage Gain (100 dB): Provides high precision for amplification tasks.
• Wide Bandwidth (Unity Gain: 1 MHz): Suitable for a broad range of signal processing applications.
• Temperature-Compensated: Maintains performance stability across varying temperatures.
• Wide Power Supply Range: Operates from a single supply (3V to 32V) or dual supplies (±1.5V to ±16V).
• Low Power Consumption: Supply current drain is independent of the supply voltage.
• Input Common-Mode Range Includes Ground: Allows direct sensing near ground potential.
• Differential Input Voltage Range Equal to Power Supply: Enhances flexibility in circuit design.
• Low Input Bias and Offset Currents: Minimizes errors in high-impedance applications.

Applications

The LM124 is a versatile component suitable for a wide array of applications, including:

• Signal Conditioning: Used in filters, integrators, and differentiators.
• Transducer Amplifiers: Ideal for amplifying signals from sensors such as thermocouples and strain gauges.
• Voltage Followers: Provides high input impedance and low output impedance for buffering applications.
• Analog Calculators: Used in summing, subtracting, and logarithmic amplifiers.
• Power Supply Control: Employed in voltage regulators and current limiters.
• Automotive Systems: Suitable for engine control units, battery monitoring, and lighting systems.
• Consumer Electronics: Used in audio amplifiers, tone controls, and signal generators.

Electrical Characteristics

The following table summarizes the key electrical specifications of the LM124 under typical operating conditions (V_CC = +5V, T_A = 25°C unless otherwise noted):

DC Characteristics

• Input Offset Voltage: 2 mV (max)
• Input Offset Current: 3 nA (max)
• Input Bias Current: 20 nA (max)
• Large-Signal Voltage Gain: 100 dB (min)
• Supply Current (Per Amplifier): 1.5 mA (max)

AC Characteristics

• Unity Gain Bandwidth: 1 MHz (typ)
• Slew Rate: 0.5 V/µs (typ)
• Common-Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR): 80 dB (min)
• Power Supply Rejection Ratio (PSRR): 100 dB (min)

Package Information

The LM124 is available in multiple package options to suit different assembly and thermal requirements:

14-Pin Plastic Dual In-Line Package (PDIP)

• Package Code: N
• Dimensions: 19.3 mm x 6.35 mm
• Pin Pitch: 2.54 mm

14-Pin Small Outline Package (SOIC)

• Package Code: D
• Dimensions: 8.65 mm x 3.91 mm
• Pin Pitch: 1.27 mm

14-Pin Ceramic Dual In-Line Package (CDIP)

• Package Code: J
• Dimensions: 19.94 mm x 7.87 mm
• Pin Pitch: 2.54 mm

All packages are RoHS compliant and designed for reliable operation in industrial environments.

Conclusion

The LM124 quad operational amplifier is a highly reliable and versatile component, offering excellent performance across a wide range of applications. Its combination of high gain, wide bandwidth, and low power consumption makes it a preferred choice for designers in various industries. With multiple package options and robust electrical characteristics, the LM124 continues to be a cornerstone in analog circuit design.