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OPA192: Using device at Isc Output short-circuit curent

Part Number: OPA192

Hi!

I have an application where the output of OPA192 regularly reaches Isc for a couple of seconds. Isc is specified at ±65mA typical, I didn't see an output current maximum though. 

Is it safe to use the device with that much current output?

Thanks!

Marcus

  • Marcus,

    A short-circuit current, Isc, is the maximum output current the op amp is designed to sink or source - this means that the part will automatically limit the output current to prevent damage to the output stage.  Having said that, operating any part under maximum rated condition for an extended period of time (measured in days or weeks) might result in performance degradation and/or shorten the expected life of the product.  In case of Isc, this is mainly related to the increased in the junction temperature due to power dissipation inside the package; however, an internal thermal protection prevents OPA192 from exceeding absolute junction temperature of 150 deg C. 

  • Hi Marek,

    Thanks for the quick reply! So there should be no issue when the device is limiting the output current, except for possible thermal degredation?

    Do you expect the lifeltime of the device to suffer also if the temperature of it stays within recommended operation conditions?

    Best regards,

    Marcus

  • Hi Marcus,

    That is correct. OPA192 will automatically limit the output current to prevent damage to the output stage (Vout may be clamped) and if the power dissipation is high enough (P=Iout*Vs) to push the part into thermal shutdown, the output will become high impedance until the part has time to cool off.

    The minimum life of all of our industrial products, including OPA192, is specified as 10 years for non-stop operation at ambient temperature,Ta, but it gets shorter with an increase of the junction temperature in line with Arrhenius Equation – see below.