The LM358 operational amplifier is a versatile dual op-amp. Known for its wide supply voltage range, low power consumption, and stable performance, this IC is widely adopted in signal conditioning, sensor amplification, and control systems. With features like internal frequency compensation, EMI protection, and low offset voltage, the LM358 continues to serve as a reliable and cost-effective solution for countless analog applications.

Catalog

Description of LM358

The LM358 is a dual operational amplifier designed to provide excellent performance for general-purpose and cost-sensitive applications. It operates with a wide supply voltage range from 3V to 36V and delivers two independent high-gain op-amps in a single package. With a low input offset voltage of typically 300 µV, the LM358 ensures precise signal amplification and stable operation. Its common-mode input range includes ground, allowing direct signal sensing without the need for extra biasing components.

Engineered for efficiency, the LM358 features unity-gain stability, a low quiescent current of around 300 µA per amplifier, and a maximum offset voltage of only 3 mV, making it ideal for low-power and battery-operated systems. It is also designed to withstand harsh environments with enhanced ESD protection up to 2 kV (HBM) and integrated EMI and RF filtering that improve noise immunity. Available in compact packages such as PDIP, SOT23-8, and more, the LM358 is easy to integrate into space-limited circuit boards. The LM358 combines low power consumption, high stability, and strong reliability, making it a popular choice for sensor interfaces, signal conditioning, voltage followers, and various analog circuits.

LM358 Integrated Circuit Pinout

LM358 Layout Examples

The LM358 Layout Example diagram illustrates the recommended PCB layout practices for achieving stable and noise-free amplifier performance. It emphasizes proper component placement, grounding, and signal routing to reduce parasitic errors and interference.

In this layout, the input resistors (RIN and RG) and the feedback resistor (RF) are placed as close as possible to the LM358 device and to each other. This minimizes stray capacitance and prevents unwanted oscillations. The input traces should be routed far from power supply lines to avoid noise coupling from the supply rails.

For single-supply operation, the negative supply (V–) is connected directly to ground, while for dual-supply configurations, a separate negative voltage (–Vs) is used. The bypass capacitor connected between the positive supply (V+) and ground is a low-ESR ceramic capacitor, which helps filter out high-frequency noise and stabilize the power supply.

Additionally, a ground plane on another PCB layer is recommended to provide a stable reference point and improve EMI performance.

LM358 Technical Specifications

Attributes of LM358 as an Op-Amp

Recognized widely for its adaptability, the LM358 excels due to its function with a single power source and its broad voltage adaptability. This characteristic makes it apt for a diverse range of uses, from compact battery-based devices to large-scale industrial equipment. Its ability to conserve energy aligns with contemporary environmental sensibilities, creating a link between technology and ecological awareness.

Operation with a Single Power Source

The LM358’s capability to function using a single power source considerably simplifies circuit designs by removing the necessity for dual power systems. This feature not only cuts down on expenses and design intricacy but also enhances reliability-particularly significant in scenarios demanding steadfast performance. It mirrors actual engineering predicaments, where cost-effective solutions are intricately linked with practicality.

Extensive Voltage Adaptability

The LM358 boasts an extensive voltage adaptability that broadens its deployment across diverse environments with varying power levels. Whether in compact, battery-operated gadgets or robust industrial machines, it adjusts effortlessly. Its adaptability highlights a delicate balance between broad applicability and specialized functions, and it draws on practical scenarios where compatibility influences success stories.

Energy Conservation

The op-amp’s efficiency in energy conservation aids in extending the lifespan of portable device batteries while minimizing heat output, an important aspect in electronic systems. Effective heat management remains a consistent hurdle, and the LM358’s proficiency in this area echoes the pursuit of durability and sustainable goals. Through its reduction in energy usage, it reflects modern engineering priorities that integrate innovation with eco-conscious strategies.

Wide Supply Voltage Range

The LM358 supports a broad operating range, working from 3V to 36V for single-supply systems and ±1.5V to ±18V for dual-supply configurations (B and BA versions). This flexibility allows it to function seamlessly in a wide variety of circuit designs, from battery-powered devices to industrial-grade systems.

Low Power Consumption

Designed for energy efficiency, the LM358 features a low quiescent current of only 300 µA per channel (B and BA versions). This makes it an ideal choice for portable and battery-operated applications, extending battery life without sacrificing performance.

Wide Bandwidth Performance

With a unity-gain bandwidth of 1.2 MHz (B and BA versions), the LM358 delivers smooth and accurate signal amplification. This characteristic ensures excellent frequency response, making it suitable for use in audio amplifiers, active filters, and sensor interface circuits.

Extended Input Range

The common-mode input voltage range of the LM358 includes ground, allowing direct sensing near ground potential without extra biasing. This simplifies circuit design and improves performance in single-supply systems.

Low Input Offset Voltage

The LM358 ensures high precision through minimal input offset voltage-2 mV (BA version) and 3 mV (A and B versions) at 25 °C. This helps reduce signal distortion and improves accuracy in sensitive analog applications such as instrumentation and measurement circuits.

Built-In RF and EMI Filtering

To ensure stable operation even in noisy environments, the LM358 includes internal radio frequency (RF) and electromagnetic interference (EMI) filters (B and BA versions). These filters minimize external noise, maintaining reliable performance in automotive and industrial environments.

High Reliability and Compliance

The device meets the MIL-PRF-38535 military standard, which guarantees strict testing for performance and durability. This makes the LM358 suitable for mission-critical systems, including aerospace and defense-grade electronics.

Strong Output Drive Capability

The LM358 can directly drive TTL and CMOS logic circuits, as well as LED indicators or small relays, without the need for additional driver stages. This versatility allows designers to use it in both analog and digital signal systems.

Excellent Temperature Stability

Engineered for durability, the LM358 performs consistently across a temperature range of −40 °C to +85 °C, ensuring reliability in both consumer and industrial applications.

Internal Frequency Compensation

For stable and smooth performance, the LM358 incorporates built-in phase compensation, eliminating the need for external components. This simplifies design and enhances circuit stability under various operating conditions.

Low Input Bias and Offset Currents

The LM358’s low input bias and offset currents improve accuracy in high-impedance applications, such as sensor amplifiers and signal conditioners. This feature ensures precise signal detection and reliable system output.

Applications of the LM358

Power Supply and Energy Systems

The LM358 is commonly used in merchant network and server power supply units, mobile chargers, and multi-function power adapters. It helps regulate voltage and monitor current, ensuring a stable power output. In addition, it supports AC inverters, string inverters, and central inverter systems, as well as uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) and voltage frequency drives, maintaining continuous and reliable operation.

Motor Control Systems

This IC is ideal for motor control applications, including AC induction motors, brushed and brushless DC motors, stepper motors, and permanent magnet motors. Its ability to amplify and compare signals allows for precise speed and torque control, which is vital for automation and robotics systems.

Computer and Peripheral Devices

The LM358 is integrated into desktop PCs, motherboards, and multifunction printers for signal processing, voltage monitoring, and feedback control. Its stability and precision make it essential in computer hardware circuits that require consistent analog performance.

Home and Industrial Appliances

In both home and industrial environments, the LM358 is used in air conditioners, washing machines, refrigerators, and dryers. It helps regulate sensors and control temperature, humidity, and current levels, contributing to energy efficiency and equipment protection.

Consumer Electronics

This amplifier is also utilized in audio amplifiers, battery chargers, and lighting control circuits, where it provides clean and stable signal amplification. Its low power draw and high precision make it suitable for portable electronic devices and wearable technologies.

Measurement and Instrumentation

Due to its low input offset voltage and high accuracy, the LM358 is ideal for sensor signal conditioning, temperature monitoring, voltage sensing, and current detection circuits. It is widely used in data acquisition systems, oscilloscopes, and analog-to-digital converter (ADC) interfaces.

Automotive Applications

The LM358 is frequently found in automotive electronics, including battery management systems (BMS), engine control units (ECUs), dashboard instrumentation, and lighting control modules. Its robust performance under wide temperature ranges ensures reliability in demanding automotive environments.

Industrial and Embedded Systems

In industrial control systems, the LM358 is used for signal amplification, comparator functions, and feedback control. It plays a key role in process automation, PLC input stages, and embedded sensor networks, ensuring accurate signal transmission and system stability.

Point-of-Sale and Communication Equipment

The LM358 is integrated into electronic point-of-sale (POS) terminals, network routers, and server communication boards, providing stable analog control and power monitoring functions for smooth system operation.

Circuit Design using LM358

Designing Circuits with LM358

Designing a circuit using the LM358 operational amplifier requires both understanding and precision. The process involves identifying your project’s needs, selecting the right configuration, performing accurate calculations, and building a reliable prototype. Each stage plays a role in ensuring that the final circuit performs efficiently and consistently.

Steps in Designing

Start by defining the purpose of your circuit-whether it’s for amplification, signal conditioning, or voltage comparison. Once the goal is clear, choose the appropriate LM358 configuration, such as an inverting or non-inverting amplifier. Calculate the necessary resistor and capacitor values to achieve the desired gain and frequency response. After finalizing the design, assemble the components on a breadboard or PCB and test the output. Verifying the circuit step-by-step helps detect issues early and ensures stable performance before final deployment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Beginners often encounter challenges when designing LM358-based circuits. Mistakes like incorrect wiring, wrong resistor or capacitor values, and misinterpreting circuit behavior can lead to poor performance or circuit failure. Another common issue is neglecting the input and output voltage range, which can cause the op-amp to saturate or distort the signal. Always review the datasheet specifications and double-check your schematic before powering up the circuit. Avoiding these pitfalls will save time and protect your components from damage.

Best Practices in Circuit Design

To design a reliable LM358 circuit, maintain a clean and organized layout. Keep power and ground lines short, use decoupling capacitors near the IC, and separate analog and digital grounds when possible. Always verify connections before soldering and use proper testing tools such as a multimeter or oscilloscope to measure voltages and signal behavior. Documenting your design and simulation results can also help identify issues later. Finally, never hesitate to consult datasheets, reference circuits, or experienced engineers-collaboration often leads to better results.

LM358 PDIP Mechanical Dimension

Conclusion

The LM358 is one of the most dependable and efficient operational amplifiers available today. Its combination of wide voltage flexibility, energy-efficient design, and strong noise immunity ensures consistent performance across diverse applications-from home appliances and portable gadgets to automotive and industrial systems. Whether used for voltage regulation, signal processing, or sensor interfacing, the LM358 delivers dependable results while simplifying circuit design. Its long-standing reputation among engineers underscores its value in modern electronics.