LM2903M8-13 - Dual 36V Comparator | Diodes Incorporated
MPN: LM2903M8-13 ✓ ActiveLM2903M8-13 Overview
An analog comparator is an integrated circuit that compares two input voltages and changes its output state according to their relationship. The LM2903 belongs to the differential-comparator hierarchy, which includes precision comparators, voltage comparators, and general-purpose analog interface ICs. Unlike an operational amplifier, a comparator is optimized for fast decision-making, open-drain or open-collector output signaling, and straightforward connection to digital logic rather than linear analog amplification.
The LM2903M8-13 provides two independent comparator channels, a wide 36 V operating range, and a specified 300 ns propagation-delay class. Its low input offset voltage supports decisions when the compared signals differ only slightly. The open-collector architecture permits wired logic, pull-up resistor selection, level translation, and compatibility with multiple logic families. Operation from a single positive supply or from positive and negative split supplies makes the device suitable for both conventional and bipolar signal environments.
The LM2903 series uses an open-collector output stage rather than a totem-pole output. Each output therefore requires an external pull-up resistor when used as a normal logic driver. This architecture can provide wired-AND behavior, but it can also expose unused outputs to leakage current and requires careful pull-up selection. The two channels are electrically independent, allowing one device to serve two unrelated threshold, window, sorting, or fault-detection functions.
Typical uses include sensor threshold detection, battery and power-supply monitoring, window comparators, overvoltage and undervoltage protection, signal conditioning, relay or reset-control logic, and general interface between analog sensors and digital systems. In dual-rail systems, the split-supply capability supports comparison of bipolar signals. In single-supply systems, the comparator can compare a sensor output against a reference voltage while driving a pull-up-based digital output.
Designers should verify input common-mode limits, output current, response time, and pull-up requirements against the intended supply conditions. Keep the comparator input and output paths away from high-current switching nodes, use short traces over a continuous ground plane, and place the pull-up resistor close to the output. Because the open-collector output cannot source current, the chosen resistor must satisfy both the required sink current and the logic-family input-current limits.
This product page combines the exact LM2903M8-13 package and rating information with application guidance, engineering design notes, and verified cross-reference results. It also distinguishes confirmed same-package drop-in options from comparator parts that require a different footprint, helping PCB designers avoid substitutions that cannot be installed without redesign.
Drop-in alternatives for LM2903M8-13 — same package, pin-to-pin compatible. Different-package parts requiring PCB rework are excluded.
No drop-in alternatives available for this product.
Request AlternativesLM2903M8-13 Maximum Ratings & Electrical Characteristics
| Comparator Type | Dual differential voltage comparator |
| Number of Channels | 2 channels |
| Supply Voltage Range | Up to 36 V |
| Single Supply Operation | Supported |
| Split Supply Operation | Supported |
| Propagation Delay | 300 ns |
| Output Type | Open-collector |
| Logic Compatibility | TTL, CMOS, and MOS output compatible |
| Package | 8-pin MSOP |
| Mounting Type | Surface mount |
| Shipping Format | Tape and reel |
LM2903M8-13 8-pin msop Pin Configuration Guide
Pin configuration for LM2903M8-13 (8-pin msop package). This power device features gate, drain, and source terminals. For non-polarized packages, refer to the manufacturer datasheet for exact pin 1 orientation and footprint details. Common applications include power supply design, motor driving, and load switching.
No detailed pinout data available for LM2903M8-13.
Refer to the datasheet for full pin configuration.
Typical Applications
LM2903M8-13 is suitable for 6 applications: Battery Threshold Monitoring, Industrial Sensor Interfacing, Overvoltage and Undervoltage Protection, Window Comparator Circuit, Motor and Relay Control Interface, Signal Crossing and Sorting.
Battery Threshold Monitoring
The LM2903M8-13 can implement two independent battery-voltage thresholds in one package, such as undervoltage and overvoltage conditions. Each channel compares a divided battery voltage against a reference, while the open-collector output provides a pulled-up fault signal for an MCU or system controller. The dual architecture reduces component count compared with using two separate comparator ICs, and the 36 V maximum supply rating is useful in industrial battery systems. Confirm the input common-mode range at the actual battery voltage, select divider values that keep the input within limits, and use a pull-up voltage compatible with the connected digital input. The output is open collector, so it cannot source current and must use an external pull-up resistor.
Recommended
Industrial Sensor Interfacing
The LM2903M8-13 converts two analog sensor conditions into digital threshold events for an industrial controller. Its two independent differential channels can compare separate pressure, temperature, or level signals against references, while the 300 ns propagation-delay class supports relatively prompt switching decisions. The open-collector outputs can drive pulled-up logic inputs or participate in wired fault signaling where the electrical conditions permit. Place the device near the protected analog section, keep high-current traces away from the input pins, and use a continuous ground reference to reduce decision instability. The actual usable input range, common-mode range, and output sink-current limit must be checked against the sensor amplifier output and system supply.
Recommended
Overvoltage and Undervoltage Protection
A dual comparator can monitor one rail against separate upper and lower limits, making the LM2903M8-13 suitable for window protection and reset generation. The two open-collector channels indicate whether the monitored voltage has moved outside the permitted range, and separate pull-ups allow the fault signals to connect to an MCU, supervisor, or reset network. The 36 V maximum supply rating supports higher-voltage industrial systems, although the sensed input must still remain inside the permitted common-mode range. Establish resistor-divider and reference accuracy before setting thresholds, account for comparator input offset in guard bands, and choose pull-up values that satisfy both sink-current and logic-high requirements.
Recommended
Window Comparator Circuit
The LM2903M8-13 naturally supports a window-comparison arrangement using its two independent comparator channels. One channel can detect the lower threshold and the other the upper threshold, producing separate open-collector signals for an in-range, under-range, or over-range decision. Compared with a dedicated window comparator, the standard dual device offers a familiar dual-comparator architecture and open-collector outputs for digital integration. The implementation must ensure that both input signals remain inside the common-mode range and that the reference voltages include appropriate offset margin. Because the output cannot source current, fit a suitable pull-up on each channel and consider whether wired logic is acceptable before combining the outputs.
Recommended
Motor and Relay Control Interface
The LM2903M8-13 can provide a low-voltage decision stage between a current or position sensor and a motor or relay control function. Two channels can monitor independent limits, while the open-collector output drives a pull-up and a suitable driver stage rather than directly powering a relay coil. The device's 36 V maximum supply rating is compatible with systems that also use an elevated motor rail, provided the comparator is supplied from an appropriate lower rail and its inputs remain within the common-mode limits. Keep switching-node energy away from the comparator inputs, use a continuous return path, and select the pull-up for the connected logic rather than for direct relay current. A transistor or driver remains necessary when the load exceeds the comparator output rating.
Recommended
Signal Crossing and Sorting
The LM2903M8-13 can act as a signal-crossing detector in instrumentation, control loops, and mixed-signal systems. Each comparator decides whether one analog signal has risen above or fallen below another, and the open-collector state provides a digital event for counters, timers, or control logic. The listed 300 ns propagation-delay class supports prompt event detection, while two independent channels can handle two crossing relationships in one package. To maintain predictable operation, keep the compared signals within the allowed common-mode range, minimize input-node capacitance and trace length, and provide a low-impedance reference network. The external pull-up affects rise time, so its value should be balanced against required noise immunity, speed, and output leakage.
Recommended
Recommended Products Summary
Engineering reference data for LM2903M8-13 — comparison, design guidance, and compliance information.
Selection Guide
Comparison with Alternatives
| Parameter | This Product |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Dual differential voltage comparator |
| Brand | Diodes Incorporated |
| Package | 8-pin MSOP |
| Number of Channels | 2 channels |
| Maximum Supply Voltage | 36 V |
| Single-Supply Operation | Supported |
| Split-Supply Operation | Supported |
| Propagation Delay | 300 ns |
| Output Type | Open collector |
| Logic Compatibility | TTL, CMOS, and MOS compatible |
Key Differentiators
- Two independent general-purpose comparison channels (vs LM2904P3)
- Open-collector interface for flexible logic connections (vs TLV2402ID)
- Single- and split-supply flexibility (vs LM2903M)
Design Notes
Route the two comparator inputs directly to their sensing or reference networks and keep the traces short, away from switching nodes and high-current return paths. A continuous ground plane helps establish a low-impedance reference, while separating input traces from the open-collector pull-up network reduces coupling into the decision point. If the inputs originate near a resistive divider, place the divider close to the device and avoid sharing sensitive input traces with unrelated relay, motor, or switching-converter paths.
Fit an external pull-up resistor on every open-collector output used as a logic driver. Select it so the comparator can sink the required low-state current while the resulting high state meets the input thresholds of the connected TTL, CMOS, or MOS circuit. Account for output leakage, pull-up tolerance, and the maximum input transition rate. Avoid excessive pull-up resistance when a fast rising edge is required, because the associated capacitance increases the output rise time.
Do not treat the 36 V supply rating as permission for any input voltage. Verify that each differential and common-mode input remains within its operating range at minimum and maximum supply conditions, including transient overshoot. Also confirm that the output pull-up voltage remains acceptable even when the comparator is unpowered. Use the manufacturer datasheet pin-description table and electrical-characteristics limits before finalizing a new layout or changing the supply architecture.
Keep the two channels independent when possible, and avoid routing one channel's pull-up current through the reference network of the other. If the comparator sits near a relay, motor, or power-converter stage, maintain separation between the input nodes and the noisy power path, and provide local return-current management. Open-collector edges can couple into adjacent high-impedance nodes; keeping the pull-up close to the output and minimizing loop area reduces this risk.
Compliance Information
No definitive RoHS, REACH, AEC-Q100, lead-free, halogen-free, or conflict-minerals declarations were identified for this exact ordering code. Confirm current environmental and quality documentation before production release.
