1.1.1 Discrete Operational Amplifiers

A major benefit to using discrete operational amplifiers is the high analog performance. Discrete operational amplifiers do not need to share I/O pins with the microcontroller and can use the full die area to enhance their analog performance. In addition, discrete operational amplifiers are available in specialty configurations and architectures such as zero-drift, instrumentation and current sense. Plus, a discrete operational amplifier can utilize a bipolar power supply.

Note:
  1. The integrated operational amplifiers can be set up into a similar configuration, at reduced analog performance. See Instrumentation Amplifier for more information.
  2. The integrated operational amplifiers can perform current sensing in certain circuit configurations.