Microchip MCP6L01RT-E/OT Low-Power Single Op-Amp: Key Features and Application Circuits

The Microchip MCP6L01RT-E/OT is a single operational amplifier designed for applications where ultra-low power consumption is a critical requirement. Operating from a supply voltage as low as 1.8V and drawing a typical quiescent current of just 600 nanoamps (nA), this op-amp is an ideal choice for battery-powered and portable devices that demand extended operational life. Its combination of low power and respectable performance makes it a versatile component in various analog signal conditioning circuits.

Key Features

The defining characteristics of the MCP6L01RT-E/OT set it apart in the low-power arena:

Ultra-Low Quiescent Current (Iq): At a typical 600 nA, the power draw is minimal, preserving battery energy.

Rail-to-Rail Input/Output (RRIO): The input common-mode voltage range and output voltage swing extend to both power supply rails (VSS to VDD). This maximizes the dynamic range in low-voltage applications, ensuring signals are not clipped.

Low Operating Voltage: Functions with a supply voltage range from 1.8V to 6.0V, compatible with two-cell battery configurations and 3.3V/5V systems.

Small Package: Housed in the space-saving SOT-23-5 package, it is perfect for compact PCB designs.

Extended Temperature Range: Specified for operation from -40°C to +125°C, making it suitable for industrial and automotive environments.

Application Circuits

The MCP6L01RT-E/OT excels in several fundamental analog circuit configurations.

1. Low-Power Photodiode Amplifier (Transimpedance Amplifier)

Photodiodes output a small current proportional to light intensity. The MCP6L01 is perfectly suited to convert this current into a measurable voltage due to its low input bias current and low-power operation. The circuit's gain is set by the feedback resistor (Rf). The low Iq ensures that the amplifier itself does not become a significant drain on the battery in a light-sensing system.

2. Non-Inverting Amplifier for Sensor Interface

Many sensors, such as thermocouples or pressure sensors, output a small analog voltage. A non-inverting amplifier circuit can be used to buffer and amplify this signal. The rail-to-rail output capability allows the amplified signal to use the full supply range, improving the signal-to-noise ratio for the downstream Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC). The gain is set by the ratio of the two resistors: G = 1 + (Rf / Rg).

3. Active Low-Pass Filter

Combining the op-amp with resistors and capacitors creates an active filter. A simple first-order RC low-pass filter can be buffered by the MCP6L01 to prevent loading of the filter network by subsequent stages. For a more sophisticated design, the op-amp can be configured in a Sallen-Key topology to create a second-order filter with a sharper roll-off, all while maintaining minimal power consumption.

4. Window Comparator

While typically requiring two op-amps, a window comparator circuit can be built using additional discrete components. The MCP6L01's rail-to-rail input is crucial here, allowing it to accurately compare signals near the negative and positive supply rails, determining if a sensor reading is within a predefined "window" of values.

ICGOOODFIND

ICGOOODFIND: The Microchip MCP6L01RT-E/OT stands out as a premier solution for ultra-low-power analog design. Its exceptional combination of nanoamp-level current consumption and rail-to-rail input/output operation empowers engineers to create efficient, high-performance, and reliable circuits for portable, medical, and industrial sensing applications, all within a miniature package.

Keywords:

1. Low-Power

2. Rail-to-Rail

3. Operational Amplifier

4. Battery-Powered

5. SOT-23-5