SCIENCE

Linear Technology introduces the LT5400, its first family of precision matched resistors designed for high performance signal conditioning applications in difference amplifiers, precision dividers, references and bridge circuits.  Three resistor network options are in full production today with resistor ratios of 1:1 and 10:1 quad 10K resistors, quad 100K resistors and dual 10K / dual 100K resistors.  Each LT5400 has guaranteed matching of 0.01% from -40°C to 85°C, and 0.0125% from -40°C to 125°C.  The LT5400 matching is enhanced with "matching for CMRR," a new metric that guarantees CMRR performance when configured in a difference amplifier circuit.  The LT5400 matching for CMRR is only 0.005%, a 2x improvement over independent resistors with 0.01% matching.  

As a replacement for discrete resistors, the small LT5400 MSOP package minimizes thermal gradients, and ensures consistent conditions over time and temperature for all four resistors.  Since the LT5400 is based on conventional silicon fabrication and assembly, it is relatively insensitive to shock, vibration, humidity and temperature extremes.  A high temperature option is available that is fully specified from -55°C to 150°C.  With its robustness, the LT5400 is suitable for instrumentation and test equipment in heavy industrial, military and automotive environments.  Standard production processes ensure LT5400 availability with consistently short lead times.

"Although resistor networks are functionally simple, their precise matching is critically important for precision circuits," says Kris Lokere, design manager for Linear Technology.  "The LT5400 keeps resistors simple for the user, offering outstanding matching and robustness."

Samples and production quantities of the LT5400 are now available and prices start at $3.49 each in 1,000-piece quantities.