Gaze Inside These Nanopower Op-Amps

[Robo] about at Tiny Transistor Labs has a fascinating search at what is within these modern day, ultra very low-energy products that consume absolutely minuscule amounts of current. Crank up the magnification, and go choose a seem at the dies on these two equivalent (but internally pretty distinct) equipment.

The very first device is the Texas Instruments LPV801, a solitary-channel op-amp that may not be extremely speedy, but will make up for it by consuming only a couple of hundred nanoamps. Inside, [Robo] factors out all the features of the style, detailing how a aspect like this would be laser-trimmed to make sure it performs in requirements.

The 2nd element is the Texas Devices LPV821 which works by using a wee little bit much more electric power, but will make up for it with a couple additional characteristics like zero-drift and EMI hardening. Peeking within this device reveals the distinct manufacturing method this portion utilised, and [Robo] details out items like the clear deficiency of fuses for exact trimming of the component all through the manufacturing system.

Looking at these structures up close isn’t an every day issue for most of us, so acquire the opportunity to check out out [Robo]’s pictures. Small Transistor Labs surely usually takes the “tiny” portion of their title significantly, as we’ve witnessed with their 555 timer, recreated with discrete transistors, all crammed into a offer which is even the exact primary size as the unique.