1.1.2 Integrated Operational Amplifiers

The biggest advantage of integrated operational amplifiers is the reduction in design area and part count. Since the operational amplifier is on the die of the microcontroller, only one package is needed on the PCB. Another benefit of the integrated solution is the integration with the microcontroller. Unlike a discrete solution, the operational amplifier on the microcontroller can be configured and controlled digitally like other peripherals. Depending on the device family, this integration can be used to control features such as:

• Power on/off
• Signal gain control (available on devices with an integrated resistor ladder)
• Output state (varies by device; this may include tri-stated outputs, forced GND or V_DD output levels)