LM324 Quad Low-Power Operational Amplifier

LM324 Quad Operational Amplifier

The LM324 Operational Amplifier combines four independent op-amps inside one DIP-14 package. Therefore, it can process several analog signals while reducing component count and circuit size.

The IC supports both single and dual power supplies. In addition, its input range includes ground, making it useful in many single-supply circuits.

Key Features

• Contains four independent operational amplifiers
• Supports single and dual power supplies
• Operates from a single supply as low as 3V
• Provides high DC voltage gain
• Includes internal frequency compensation
• Supports unity-gain operation
• Features low power consumption
• Includes short-circuit-protected outputs
• Uses a breadboard-friendly DIP-14 package
• Offers an input common-mode range that includes ground

Technical Specifications

• Part Number: LM324
• Component Type: Quad operational amplifier
• Number of Amplifiers: Four
• Single Supply Range: 3V–32V
• Dual Supply Range: ±1.5V to ±16V
• Typical Gain Bandwidth: Approximately 1MHz
• Typical Slew Rate: 0.5V/µs
• Typical DC Voltage Gain: 100dB
• Typical Input Offset Voltage: 2mV
• Maximum Input Offset Voltage: 7mV
• Typical Input Bias Current: 45nA
• Typical Package Supply Current: Approximately 700µA
• Commercial Temperature Range: 0°C to 70°C
• Package: DIP-14

Specifications may vary slightly by manufacturer and exact LM324 version.

Pin Configuration

• Pin 1: Output 1
• Pin 2: Inverting input 1
• Pin 3: Non-inverting input 1
• Pin 4: Positive supply, VCC+
• Pin 5: Non-inverting input 2
• Pin 6: Inverting input 2
• Pin 7: Output 2
• Pin 8: Output 3
• Pin 9: Inverting input 3
• Pin 10: Non-inverting input 3
• Pin 11: Ground or negative supply, VCC-
• Pin 12: Non-inverting input 4
• Pin 13: Inverting input 4
• Pin 14: Output 4

Applications

Use the LM324 in:

• Sensor signal conditioning
• Analog amplification
• Active filter circuits
• Voltage monitoring
• Battery monitoring circuits
• Oscillators
• Waveform generators
• Threshold detection
• Current-sensing circuits
• Arduino analog projects
• Educational electronics

Design Guidelines

1. Connect pin 4 to the positive supply.
2. Connect pin 11 to ground or the negative supply.
3. Add a 100nF bypass capacitor near the power pins.
4. Keep input signals within the valid common-mode range.
5. Check the required output voltage swing.
6. Configure unused amplifiers in a stable state.
7. Avoid leaving unused inputs floating.

Important Notes

• The traditional LM324 is not a full rail-to-rail amplifier.
• Its input range includes the negative supply or ground.
• However, its input cannot normally reach the positive supply rail.
• Its output can approach ground under suitable load conditions.
• The output also cannot normally reach the positive supply rail.
• This IC cannot drive motors, relays, or high-current loads directly.
• Check the manufacturer’s datasheet for critical designs.

Package Contents

• 1 × LM324 Quad Operational Amplifier IC, DIP-14