INA849: similar part or design with differential output

Part Number: INA849
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: INA851, RES11A-Q1

Tool/software:

I am familiar with the INA849. I have used it as a low noise amplifier in the VLF and LF frequency bands with a modest gain of 51. I appreciate the input noise Vn vs. In balance since my source impedance is not always low. I also appreciate the low input bias current due to the super beta transistors. BTW, I use +/- 9V supplies for powering the device.

I am considering a new LNA design with a differential output while maintaining the same input noise performance or better. I am aware of the architecture in which two op amps are configured as in the simplified schematic of the "front end" of the INA849 and other instrumentation amps, but am looking for advice on solutions and/or gotchas. Simplistically, it seems that a solution with the a part that pins out the front end of the INA849 might be interesting since the op amps and feedback resistors would be on the same die and matched well, and I don't need a high output drive capability, but I am unaware of any part like that. Are you? 2nd option would be two low noise op amps, preferably super-beta, on the same die, but I am not aware of a part like that either. Third option would be the common dual package low noise op amps where they are on separate die, and build the instrumentation amp "front end" discretely. I know these exist but haven't determined which op amps would be the best for my low noise application. Anyway, I would appreciate any thoughts you might have on this.

  • Hey Randy!

    There is a similar device to the INA849 with differential output in the INA851. You can maximize the performance of the input referred noise by leveraging the gain of 0.2 on the output stage of the INA, lowering the noise gain on that amplifier, and providing more front-end amplification with the input stage amplifiers, which have better noise performance.

    However there is only one option of differential output instrumentation amplifiers from TI. If you wanted to make one slightly more custom, you can do this with our precision resistor dividers (RES11A-Q1)

    Best,
    Gerasimos