Understanding Op Amp Parameters

This chapter deals with op amp data sheet parameters. The designer must have a clear understanding of what op amp parameters mean and their impact on circuit design. An op amp that is intended only for ac applications may omit dc offset information. The omission of information is not an attempt to “hide” anything. It is merely an attempt to highlight the parameters of most interest to the designer who is using the part the way it was intended. There is no such thing as an ideal op amp or one that is universally applicable. The selection of any op amp must be based on an understanding of the particular parameters that are most important to the application. Recommended operating conditions have a similarity to maximum ratings in that operation outside the stated limits that could cause unsatisfactory performance. Recommended operating conditions, however, do not carry the implication of device damage if they are exceeded. Electrical characteristics are measurable electrical properties of a device inherent in its design. They are used to predict the performance of the device as an element of an electrical circuit.