Introduction

The Operational Amplifier (OPA) module for the PIC18-Q41 device family includes a variety of new features that enhance analog performance, while minimizing design time and cost. This peripheral has an integrated internal resistor ladder, which allows the OPA module to be used as a Programmable Gain Amplifier (PGA), without the need for external components. This peripheral also features hardware controlled override of the OPA modes of operation, and an input offset voltage calibration register. The OPA module, alongside the other advanced analog peripherals found on many PIC® microcontrollers, can be used for analog signal conditioning in sensor and real-time control applications. This technical brief will provide a detailed overview of the OPA module, discussing the peripheral features in detail and explaining the setup for each mode of operation. For more information about the analog performance and characteristics of this module, refer to TB3279 “Optimizing Internal Operational Amplifiers for Analog Signal Conditioning” (DS400003279A).