Product Overview
Motorola LM393AN Dual Comparator IC - 36V Single Supply, Open-Collector Output, DIP-8 Package
Condition
Unused NOS. Sourced from an electronics distributor consolidating inventory. Leads are straight and clean per photo inspection. Markings confirm LM393AN with Motorola logo and date code 9704.
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Product Overview
Motorola LM393AN dual voltage comparator in a DIP-8 package. Contains two independent comparators in a single 8-pin package. Operates from a single supply of 2.0 V to 36 V or a split supply of ±1.0 V to ±18 V. Open-collector output is compatible with DTL, ECL, TTL, MOS, and CMOS logic levels. The "A" suffix indicates improved input offset voltage specification versus the standard LM393.
Key Features
- Dual independent comparators in one DIP-8 package
- Single supply range: 2.0 Vdc to 36 Vdc
- Split supply range: ±1.0 Vdc to ±18 Vdc
- Open-collector output - compatible with DTL, ECL, TTL, MOS, and CMOS logic
- Low supply current: 0.4 mA typical
- Low input bias current: 25 nA typical
- Low input offset current: 5.0 nA typical
- "A" grade: improved input offset voltage versus standard LM393
- DIP-8 (PDIP-8) package - breadboard and through-hole PCB friendly
Applications
- Hobbyist wires a photoresistor to one comparator input and a reference voltage to the other - when light shifts, the output flips and drives an LED or small motor directly from the breadboard
- Repair technician desolders a failed LM393AN from an industrial control board, drops in this NOS unit, and confirms voltage level detection is restored without circuit modifications
- Engineer integrates the dual comparator into a battery management PCB to trigger a low-battery warning when the monitored voltage crosses a set threshold
- Maker builds a zero-crossing detector or simple oscillator circuit using one or both comparator channels
- Overcurrent protection circuit in a power supply uses the open-collector output to pull a fault line low when a monitored voltage exceeds a limit
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the output need a pull-up resistor?
Yes. The LM393AN uses an open-collector output, so an external pull-up resistor is required to define the high output state. The resistor connects between the output pin and your supply voltage. Value depends on load and switching speed requirements of your circuit.
Is this the same footprint as the LM393AP?
No. The LM393AN is a PDIP-8 package. The LM393AP uses a different physical package (PDIP(P)-8) and is not a pin-compatible drop-in replacement. Confirm your PCB footprint matches the PDIP-8 layout before ordering.
Can this be used as an op-amp?
No. The LM393AN is a comparator designed to run open-loop. It is not designed for op-amp feedback circuits and will behave unpredictably if wired that way.
What is the difference between the LM393AN and the standard LM393N?
The "A" suffix indicates an improved grade with tighter input offset voltage specification. Both share the same PDIP-8 footprint and general operating characteristics.
A 1997 date code on a Motorola logo part that still has straight leads and never saw a board - some components just waited for the right project. This one is ready when yours shows up.
