October 2012

Doc ID 022939 Rev 1

1/27

AN4071

Application note

Introduction to comparators, their parameters and basic

applications

By Radim Smat

Introduction

After operational amplifiers (op amps), comparators are the most generally used analog,

simple integrated circuits.

Operational amplifiers are well described in many publications and a lot of information can

be found regarding the design and proper use of these devices. On the other hand,

information concerning comparators is much harder to find as they are often considered as

simple devices. This note explains the main parameters of comparators and their limitations

from an application point of view.

Figure 1.

TS332 and TS334 micropower low-voltage rail-to-rail comparators

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