MIC923
Micrel, Inc.
MIC923
10
May 2006
Applications Information
The MIC923 is a high-speed, voltage-feedback operational
amplier featuring very low supply current and excellent
stability. This device is unity gain stable, capable of driving
high capacitance loads.
Driving High Capacitance
The MIC923 is stable when driving high capacitance, making
it ideal for driving long coaxial cables or other high-capaci-
tance loads. Most high-speed op amps are only able to drive
limited capacitance.
Note: increasing load capacitance does reduce
the speed of the device. In applications where
the load capacitance reduces the speed of the
op amp to an unacceptable level, the effect of
the load capacitance can be reduced by add-
ing a small resistor (<100Ω) in series with the
output.
Feedback Resistor Selection
Conventional op amp gain congurations and resistor selec-
tion apply, the MIC923 is NOT a current feedback device.
Also, for minimum peaking, the feedback resistor shouldhave
low parasitic capacitance, usually 470Ω is ideal. To use the
part as a follower, the output should be connected to input
via a short wire.
Layout Considerations
All high speed devices require careful PCB layout.The follow-
ing guidelines should be observed: Capacitance, par-ticularly
on the two inputs pins will degrade performance; avoid large
copper traces to the inputs. Keep the output signal away from
the inputs and use a ground plane.
It is important to ensure adequate supply bypassing capaci-
tors are located close to the device.
Power Supply Bypassing
Regular supply bypassing techniques are recommended.
A 10F capacitor in parallel with a 0.1F capacitor on both
the positive and negative supplies are ideal. For best perfor-
mance all bypassing capacitors should be located as close
to the op amp as possible and all capacitors should be low
ESL (equivalent series inductance), ESR (equivalent series
resis-tance). Surface-mount ceramic capacitors are ideal.
Thermal Considerations
The SC70-5 package, like all small packages, have a high
thermal resistance. It is important to ensure the IC does not
exceed the maximum operating junction (die) temperature of
85°C. The part can be operated up to the absolute maximum
temperature rating of 125°C, but between 85°C and 125°C
performance will degrade, in par-ticular CMRR will reduce.
An MIC923 with no load, dissipates power equal to the qui-
escent supply current × supply voltage
PD(no load) = (VV+ – VV–)IS
When a load is added, the additional power is dissipated in
the output stage of the op amp. The power dissipated in the
device is a function of supply voltage, output voltage and
output current.
PD(output stage) = (VV+ – VOUT)IOUT
Total Power Dissipation = PD(no load) + PD(output stage)
Ensure the total power dissipated in the device is no greater
than the thermal capacity of the package. The SC70-5 pack-
age has a thermal resistance of 450°C/W.
Max. Allowable Power Dissipation =
TJ(max) – TA(max)
450C/W