reading a datasheet: Clamp currnt

reading a datasheet: Clamp current

Hi there!

On page 3 of this datasheet https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2012/04/1534579.pdf , it says that:

Input clamp current = -50mA.

Does that mean that there are clamp diodes between the inputs and the GND and that it can take 50mA ?
Or does it mean that there are clamp diodes between inputs and V+ ?
Or not at all? then what does it mean?

It just doesn't say in the datasheet.. is there a way to be sure other than test frying one of those?

Thank you very much!

ikalogic said:

Hi there!

On page 3 of this datasheet https://www.electro-tech-online.com/custompdfs/2012/04/1534579.pdf , it says that:

Input clamp current = -50mA.

Does that mean that there are clamp diodes between the inputs and the GND and that it can take 50mA ?

Click to expand...

I think that's what it means. It does say conditions are Vi<0 and Vo<0.

Sure Ron.. i don't know how i didn't see that "Vi<0" ...

Thanks!

ikalogic said:

Input clamp current = -50mA.

Does that mean that there are clamp diodes between the inputs and the GND and that it can take 50mA ?
Or does it mean that there are clamp diodes between inputs and V+ ?
Or not at all? then what does it mean?

It just doesn't say in the datasheet.

Click to expand...

Have a look at the notes below the Absolute Maximum Ratings table.

These currents are the maximums which are permitted when the voltage on the pin is forced below zero volts (presumably due to some external voltage source).

JimB

There is a clamp at -0.5V that cannot exceed -50 mA. Note that these are Absolute Maximum ratings and you don't want to be anywhere near them.