Microchip MCP6032T-E/MS Dual Op-Amp: Features and Application Circuits
The Microchip MCP6032T-E/MS is a dual operational amplifier (op-amp) that combines low power consumption with rail-to-rail input and output operation, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of portable and battery-powered applications. Housed in a compact 8-pin MSOP package, this op-amp is designed for systems where space and power efficiency are critical.
Key Features
This amplifier operates from a single supply voltage as low as 2.7V to 5.5V, with a typical quiescent current of just 100 µA (per amplifier). Its rail-to-rail input and output capability allows the signals to swing very close to both power supply rails, maximizing the dynamic range in low-voltage systems. The MCP6032 also features low offset voltage and a gain bandwidth product of 100 kHz, which is suitable for many precision DC and low-frequency AC signal conditioning tasks. Furthermore, it is equipped with EMI hardening, reducing the risk of performance degradation in noisy environments.
Typical Application Circuits
1. Photodiode Transimpedance Amplifier (TIA)
A common use for a precision op-amp like the MCP6032 is in converting the small current from a photodiode into a measurable voltage. The circuit is built by connecting the photodiode between the inverting input and ground, with a feedback resistor (RF) from the output to the inverting input. The rail-to-rail output ensures the maximum possible output swing for a given supply voltage, enhancing the circuit's sensitivity.
2. Active Low-Pass Filter
For applications requiring anti-aliasing or noise filtering, the MCP6032 can be configured as an active low-pass filter. A simple single-pole RC filter can be placed in the feedback loop. The low power consumption makes this ideal for always-on sensor interfaces in portable devices, continuously monitoring signals without draining the battery.
3. Non-Inverting Amplifier for Sensor Buffering
Many modern sensors, such as bridge-type pressure sensors, output a small differential signal on a common-mode voltage. The MCP6032's rail-to-rail input stage is crucial here, as it allows the amplifier to accurately process signals that are very close to the positive supply rail (VDD). This circuit provides high input impedance and stable gain to amplify the weak sensor signal for further processing by an ADC.
4. Voltage Follower (Unity-Gain Buffer)
When a circuit requires high input impedance and low output impedance to isolate different stages, the MCP6032 excels as a voltage follower. Its high stability at unity gain prevents oscillations, ensuring signal integrity is maintained from source to load.
In summary, the MCP6032T-E/MS from Microchip stands out as a highly efficient and versatile dual op-amp. Its defining combination of ultra-low power operation, rail-to-rail input/output, and a small form factor makes it exceptionally well-suited for design engineers focused on portable, battery-conscious devices and space-constrained PCBs. Its robustness against EMI further ensures reliable performance in challenging real-world conditions.
Keywords: Low Power Consumption, Rail-to-Rail Input/Output, EMI Hardening, Photodiode Amplifier, Active Filter
