Low-noise, CMOS-input, rail-to-rail op amps extend battery life in portable medical apps

SUNNYVALE, USA: Maxim Integrated Products has introduced the MAX9636–MAX9638, rail-to-rail, low-noise operational amplifiers. Offered in 6-pin SC70 (single), 8-pin SC70 (dual), and 10-pin UTQFN (dual) packages, these devices minimize board space while delivering outstanding noise performance.

With 38nV/rt-Hz input-voltage noise density, 50fA/rt-Hz input-current noise density, and 0.1pA input-bias current, the MAX9636–MAX9638 facilitate interfacing to high-impedance sources such as photodiode and piezoelectric sensors. Maxim’s proprietary BiCMOS process technology and design architectures enable these devices to achieve an excellent combination of size, low-noise performance, bandwidth, and supply current.

Designed to operate from a 2.1V to 5.5V supply, the MAX9636–MAX9638 are ideal for sensor interfaces in portable medical applications that demand low noise and low quiescent current. They extend battery life with a quiescent current of only 36microamps (typ). An optimized ratio of gain bandwidth (GBW) to supply current allows the devices to support 1.5MHz bandwidth. The MAX9636 and MAX9638 also offer a low-power shutdown mode that reduces supply current to 1microamp.

The MAX9636–MAX9638 are fully specified for operation over the -40 degrees Celsius to +125 degrees Celsius automotive temperature range. The MAX9636 is packaged in a lead-free, 2mm x 2.2mm, 6-pin SC70; the MAX9637 in a lead-free, 2mm x 2.2mm, 8-pin SC70; and the MAX9638 in a lead-free, 1.4mm x 1.8mm, 10-pin UTQFN package. Prices start at $0.33 for the MAX9636, $0.50 for the MAX9637, and $0.60 for the MAX9638 (1000-up, FOB USA).