LM339 Quad Voltage Comparator IC Datasheet Specifications

The LM339 is a widely used voltage comparator IC designed to monitor and compare electrical signals. It contains four independent comparators in one package, allowing several voltage conditions to be checked with a single device. This article explains the LM339 pinout, internal working principle, electrical specifications, possible replacement ICs, and practical application circuits.

Catalog

LM339 Voltage Comparator IC

The LM339 is a quad voltage comparator IC that contains four independent comparators in one 14-pin package. Each comparator compares the voltage at its inverting and non-inverting inputs, then changes the output state according to which input voltage is higher.

The LM339 operates from a 2 V to 36 V single supply or a ±1 V to ±18 V dual supply. Its input voltage range includes ground, making it suitable for single-supply circuit designs. It has low current consumption, typically 0.8 mA, with a typical input offset voltage of 2 mV and input bias current of 25 nA.

The IC uses open-collector outputs, so an external pull-up resistor is normally required. Its outputs can interface with TTL, MOS, and CMOS logic when properly configured.

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Pinout And CAD Model

Pinout

Pin Number	Pin Name	Function
1	1OUT	Open-collector output of comparator 1. Requires an external pull-up resistor.
2	2OUT	Open-collector output of comparator 2. Requires an external pull-up resistor.
3	VCC+	Positive power-supply input.
4	2IN−	Inverting input of comparator 2.
5	2IN+	Non-inverting input of comparator 2.
6	1IN−	Inverting input of comparator 1.
7	1IN+	Non-inverting input of comparator 1.
8	3IN−	Inverting input of comparator 3.
9	3IN+	Non-inverting input of comparator 3.
10	4IN−	Inverting input of comparator 4.
11	4IN+	Non-inverting input of comparator 4.
12	GND	Ground or negative power-supply connection.
13	4OUT	Open-collector output of comparator 4. Requires an external pull-up resistor.
14	3OUT	Open-collector output of comparator 3. Requires an external pull-up resistor.

CAD Model

LM339 Working Principle

This simplified internal circuit diagram shows how the LM339 voltage comparator processes two input signals and produces a digital-style output. The IN+ (non-inverting) and IN− (inverting) inputs feed a differential input stage, where the transistor pair compares the two input voltages. Small bias currents supplied by the internal current regulator keep the input stage operating correctly and maintain stable performance over different supply voltages.

The 80 µA current regulator and current mirrors distribute controlled currents throughout the internal circuit. These constant-current paths provide proper transistor biasing, improve comparison accuracy, and reduce the effect of supply voltage changes. The transistors work together to amplify the small voltage difference between the two inputs until one side becomes dominant.

The amplified signal then drives the open-collector output stage. Unlike a standard logic output, the LM339 output transistor can only pull the output low (toward GND). When the output transistor turns ON, the output is connected to ground, producing a logic LOW. When it turns OFF, the output is left open, so an external pull-up resistor is required to produce a logic HIGH.

The component count shown in the diagram highlights the internal complexity of the LM339. Although it appears as a simple 14-pin IC externally, it contains multiple transistors, resistors, and diodes that work together to provide fast, reliable voltage comparison while maintaining low power consumption and stable operation.

Features and Specifications

Feature	Specification
Device Type	Quad differential voltage comparator
Number of Comparators	Four independent comparators
Supply Voltage Range	2 V to 36 V single supply or ±1 V to ±18 V dual supply
Input Offset Voltage	3 mV typical, 5 mV maximum at 25°C
Input Bias Current	25 nA typical, up to 250 nA maximum
Input Offset Current	Approximately ±5 nA typical
Input Common-Mode Range	Includes ground and extends to approximately VCC − 1.5 V
Differential Input Voltage Range	Equal to the supply voltage within absolute maximum ratings
Output Type	Open-collector
Output Saturation Voltage	Approximately 250 mV at 4 mA
Propagation Delay	Approximately 1.3 µs
Total Supply Current	Approximately 0.8 mA typical for the complete IC
Operating Temperature	0°C to +70°C for the commercial LM339-N
Output Logic Compatibility	Compatible with TTL, CMOS, MOS, DTL, and related logic when properly pulled up
External Pull-Up Resistor	Required to obtain a HIGH output level
Typical Packages	14-pin PDIP and 14-pin SOIC

Alternative and Replacement IC

IC	Supply Voltage	Offset Voltage	Propagation Delay	Temperature Range
LM339B	2 V to 36 V	3.5 mV max	About 1 µs	−40°C to +85°C
LM239	2 V to 36 V	5 mV max	About 1.3 µs	−25°C to +85°C
LM2901	2 V to 30 V	7 mV max	About 1.3 µs	−40°C to +125°C
LP339	2 V to 36 V	5 mV max	About 8 µs	0°C to +70°C
TLC339	3 V to 16 V	5 mV max	About 2.5 µs at 5 mV overdrive	Depends on version, up to −55°C to +125°C

LM339 Application Circuit

LM339 Light Sensor Comparator Circuit

This circuit uses one comparator inside the LM339 to detect changes in light intensity using an LDR (Light Dependent Resistor). The LDR and resistor R1 form a voltage divider that generates a voltage proportional to the surrounding light level. The variable resistor VR1 provides an adjustable reference voltage to the non-inverting (+) input, allowing the light detection threshold to be set.

The LM339 continuously compares the two input voltages. When the voltage from the LDR becomes higher or lower than the reference voltage, the comparator changes the state of its open-collector output. The LED, connected through resistor R3, turns on or off depending on the comparison result. This simple circuit is commonly used in automatic lighting systems, day/night detectors, and light-activated switches.

LM339 Overvoltage Alarm Circuit

This circuit uses the LM339 as a voltage monitoring comparator. The input voltage is applied through VR1, which allows the trip point to be adjusted, while the 6 V Zener diode (ZD1) provides a stable reference voltage. The comparator continuously compares the monitored voltage with this reference to determine whether the input has exceeded the preset limit.

When the input voltage rises above the reference voltage, the LM339 output changes state and sinks current through LED1 and the buzzer BZ1. The LED provides a visual warning, while the buzzer generates an audible alarm to indicate an overvoltage condition. Resistors R1 and R2 limit current and ensure proper operation of the comparator and output devices.

LM339 Dark Detector Circuit

This circuit uses a phototransistor D1 to detect the amount of ambient light. The phototransistor conducts more current as the light intensity increases, changing the voltage applied to one input of the LM339. Resistors R2 and R3 create a fixed reference voltage at the other comparator input, establishing the switching threshold.

When the surrounding light falls below the preset level, the voltage produced by the phototransistor changes enough for the LM339 to switch its output. Because the LM339 has an open-collector output, it sinks current to turn on indicator L1. As the light level increases again, the comparator changes state and the indicator turns off. This type of circuit is commonly used in automatic night lights, security lighting, and light-sensitive control systems.

Wide Applications

• Battery management systems (BMS)

• Battery chargers

• Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS)

• Switched-mode power supplies (SMPS)

• AC-DC power adapters

• Solar power systems

• Solar charge controllers

• Inverters

• Voltage stabilizers

• Automotive electronic control units (ECUs), etc.

Mechanical Dimensions

Manufacturer

Texas Instruments (TI) company uses its global wafer fabrication, assembly, packaging, and testing facilities to produce and verify devices before shipment. TI’s in-house manufacturing capabilities support high-volume production, consistent electrical performance, quality control, and long-term supply. The company also provides official datasheets, CAD models, package information, quality documentation, and technical support for the LM339. Different LM339 orderable versions may have different package types, temperature ratings, and compliance details, so the complete part number should always be checked before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions [FAQ]

1. Why does the LM339 need an external pull-up resistor at each output?

The LM339 uses an open-collector output transistor that can pull the output LOW but cannot drive it HIGH. A pull-up resistor creates the HIGH level when the output transistor is off. Its value also affects current consumption, switching speed, and output loading.

2. How do you choose the correct pull-up resistor for an LM339 output?

Choose the resistor based on the pull-up voltage, required sink current, load type, and switching speed. Values from about 1 kΩ to 10 kΩ are common. Lower resistance gives faster switching but increases output current and power use.

3. Can unused LM339 comparator channels be left unconnected?

Unused inputs should not be left floating because electrical noise may cause unpredictable output switching. Connect the inputs to defined voltage levels so the comparator remains in a stable state. The unused output may remain unconnected.

4. What happens when both LM339 input voltages are almost equal?

Small noise, input offset voltage, and slow signal changes may cause the output to switch repeatedly near the threshold. Adding hysteresis through positive feedback creates separate turn-on and turn-off levels, which improves switching stability.

5. Why is hysteresis useful in LM339 sensor circuits?

Hysteresis prevents output flicker when a sensor signal changes slowly or contains electrical noise. It is especially useful in light sensors, temperature controls, battery monitors, and level detectors where the measured value may remain close to the set threshold.

6. Can the LM339 directly drive a relay, motor, or high-current load?

The LM339 should not directly power high-current loads. Its output is designed mainly for signal-level current sinking. A transistor, MOSFET, or relay driver stage should be added between the comparator and the load.

7. Can the LM339 compare AC signals or detect zero crossings?

Yes, but the input voltage must remain within the permitted common-mode and absolute maximum ranges. Input protection, voltage limiting, and suitable biasing may be required when monitoring AC signals or voltages that fall below ground.

8. What is the difference between an LM339 comparator and an operational amplifier?

The LM339 is designed to switch between output states when one input crosses another. An operational amplifier is mainly designed for linear amplification with negative feedback. Using an op-amp as a comparator may result in slower recovery and less predictable switching.

9. How can false triggering be reduced in an LM339 circuit?

False triggering can be reduced by using hysteresis, stable reference voltages, short signal paths, proper grounding, power-supply decoupling, and sensor filtering. A small capacitor near the supply pins can also help suppress supply noise.