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< Back Cloud Microphones Linear Systems Mar 17, 2023 Keeping the Family Business Going Cloud Microphones Among the more lamented departures from the world of electronics was RCA's microphone business. A few years ago I visited the college radio station where I'd worked in the 80s, and one of my former professors was proudly showing off an RCA 44A ribbon microphone the school had acquired. Though it had a few dents and scratches, it was a work of art. Soon after I saw it, the university's music department borrowed the mic for recording sessions and never gave it back. A typical RCA 44A ribbon microphone(Source: Wikipedia) Like original McIntosh MC275 amps, old ribbon microphones are collected because, when used correctly, they produce sounds hard to get elsewhere. But eventually even the vintage electronics section of eBay runs dry.One of the companies helping to provide new ribbon microphones and preamps, Cloud Microphones, has been able to continue the work RCA did through collaboration between a musician/businessman, Rodger Cloud, and Stephen Sank, son of RCA's ribbon microphone designer Jon R. Sank.Jon Sank had done design work at RCA that included the BK-10A and the BK-11. When he passed away in 1998, he left Stephen with the knowledge and other tools to continue the ribbon microphone work that RCA had left behind.Cloud came to Tucson as a singer/songwriter and started getting involved with bands and recording music. Sank moved into an office suite next door to Cloud's studio, and in 2006 they started working together.“So we collaborated on the initial designs of some of the mics, and I worked with him first refurbishing the vintage mics and so forth, and I really fell in love with the technology as it was in the 1930s and 1940s. It was just pretty darn great,” Cloud told me. “However, there were certainly challenges with the technology, most notably those types of microphones had a really weak sensitivity and are really difficult to deal with in terms of amplifying them.”Cloud said that even with exceptional amplifiers, it was very difficult to use ribbon microphones to record some softer sounds because of the gain requirements. This led Sank and Cloud to develop the JRS-34 ribbon microphone, named in honor of Sank's father and noting the year he was born. Rodger Cloud with his version of the RCA mic “As we worked on it, I really felt the need for an active microphone,” Cloud said. “And we really pushed ourselves to come up with something. We weren't just coming up with something that was OK. It had to be absolutely audiophile quality.” The result was a ribbon microphone that uses a Linear Systems LSK389 monolithic dual n-channel JFET to amplify the signal. Cloud wanted a dual JFET that would provide common-mode rejection in his amplifier, and settled on the LSK389. “It's just the JFET that we like the best. The power requirements for the circuit are low. We tested all of them, and this is the one that seemed to give us the results we were looking for.”Wiley Ross, who runs the recording studio at the University of Arizona, is a big fan of the Cloud's gear. “I use the Cloudlifter almost always when recording from a passive microphone,” he wrote in a recent email to me.“I don't use it because I need the gain, I have plenty with my Millennia Media HV-3R, but because the sound is better; richer, more depth,” Ross wrote. “With the Cloudlifter Z it's like having your mic locker expand to do all the different sonic possibilities afforded.”Ross added that Cloud's JRS-34 is a “main-stay” ribbon microphone. “I love it on all wind and brass instruments. Listening tests with other fine ribbons with faculty, students, and staff confirm its superiority.” The Cloudlifter Using a JFET-based circuit wasn't an obvious solution at first, Cloud said. “We were looking at several options with the microphones, and I was the one who suggested that we try the JFET technology. We were also looking at chip-based technology, different ways we could activate the mic. One of the problems with a chip-based design was we were going to have to use a couple of nine-volt batteries. We just couldn't figure out a way to get it to work on the phantom.”Using the Linear Systems' LSK389, which combines ultra-low noise with low IDSS , enabled Cloud and Sank to build a phantom-powered active ribbon microphone. Cloud said the prototype of the active circuitry was set up in a test box to enable testing various microphones. “And it only took a few moments to realize that this box is cool. And that's how the Cloudlifter accidently came to be.”The Cloudlifter is the active part of the company's ribbon microphone broken out into a format that can be used with many microphones people already have, and it soon became the company's best-selling product. “It's a game-changer, or more accurately a 'gain-changer,' because it allows people to use microphones that they normally would not even consider for softer sources, acoustic instruments, because the problem in the past has always been defeating the noise floor of the preamplifier.”The Cloudlifter is a standalone product customers could use to boost the gain of other microphones. It plugs into the line coming from a microphone and uses any standard phantom powered microphone input device to provide up to 25dB of “ultra-clean, transparent gain.”The Cloudlifter is recommended for: recording direct into a digital audio workstation interface; working with noisy or low gain preamps; using mixers/preamps that impair the sound at higher gain settings; working with passive ribbon microphones or low-output dynamic microphones; capturing softer sound sources such as acoustic instruments and voice; and when using long cable runs.When Cloud and his colleagues were first designing the circuit, they used Toshiba JFETs. “We found out about Linear Systems' products so we tried and we compared it,” says Cloud. “We liked it better than Toshiba. It was still an improvement, and I liked what it did for the Cloudlifter — it seemed to drop the noise floor even further, which is always a good thing when you're dealing with really low-sensitivity microphones.”Cloud said that after sales increased for the Cloudlifter, it became too labor intensive to match the single LSK170 JFETs. “It was becoming almost a full-time job to hand-match these little JFETs, so we started looking at the duals, and we went to the surface-mount technology, and I've got to say the Linear Systems duals are awesome. We can't match them that closely by hand, and the failure rate of the entire card as a whole is less than one in a thousand now. And we couldn't achieve that making them by hand.”The common-mode rejection enables the Cloudlifter to “pass clean audio in the worst of circumstances, next to a radio tower, in EMI hell,” according to Cloud.

LS3250 Single NPN High-Speed Switching Transistor < Back LS3250S - Single The LS3250 Single is a high-performance NPN high-speed switching transistor designed for demanding applications in both analog and digital circuits. Engineered for high-speed switching with low saturation voltage, it enhances efficiency while minimizing power loss, making it ideal for general-purpose switching and signal processing across a wide range of industrial and consumer electronics applications. Available Packages: Die Form (waffle pack ) SOT-23 (3L) (surface-mount ) TO-92 (3L) (through-hole ) Key Features & Benefits: Low Saturation Voltage: Enhances efficiency and reduces power loss Compact Packaging: Versatile options for surface-mount and through-hole applications High-Speed Switching: Optimized for fast, reliable performance in critical circuits Applications: High-speed switching circuits Analog circuit amplification Signal processing Consumer electronics Advanced Screening Options: Advanced screening options are available for our diverse product lineup, featuring JFETs, Bipolar transistors, MOSFETs, current regulators, and Diodes. Our special screening covers all the parameters listed in the standard datasheet, including comprehensive package pin-out. Connect with our experienced technical team to discuss your specific needs and tailor your requirements—email us at support@linearsystems.com or call (510) 490-9160. MOQ applies to these specialized services. Ordering Information: Below are the options available when ordering this part series: Standard Part Call-Out: LS3250S DIE LS3250S SOT-23 3L RoHS LS3250S TO-92 3L RoHS Select Part Call-Out:Select parts include SEL + 4-digit numeric code LS3250S DIE SELXXXX LS3250S SOT-23 3L RoHS SELXXXX LS3250S TO-92 3L RoHS SELXXXX High-performance NPN high-speed switching transistor designed for demanding applications in both analog and digital circuits. Datasheet Spice Model Application Notes

LOW LEAKAGE, MONOLITHIC DUAL, PICO-AMP DIODE < Back DPAD/SSTDPAD Series JPAD SERIES SINGLE, PICO AMP, LOW LEAKAGE DIODES The DPAD Series Low Leakage, Monolithic Dual, Pico-Amp Diode is a direct replacement for the Siliconix-Vishay part series. It is ideal for Pico Amp, Ultra Low Leakage, Protection Diode Applications. This part series is available in the TO-72 4L RoHS, TO-78 5L RoHS and SOIC 8L RoHS package, as well as die form. Advanced screening options are available for our diverse product lineup, featuring JFETS, Bipolar transistors, MOSFETs, current regulators, and Diodes. Our special screening covers all the parameters listed in the standard datasheet, including comprehensive package pin-out. Connect with our experienced technical team to discuss your specific needs and tailor your requirements—email us at support@linearsystems.com or call (510) 490-9160. MOQ applies to these specialized services. Ordering Information Below are the options you have when ordering this part series: DPAD1 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD2 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD5 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD10 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD20 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD50 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD100 TO-72 4L RoHS DPAD1 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD2 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD5 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD10 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD20 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD50 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD100 TO-78 5L RoHS DPAD1 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD2 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD5 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD10 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD20 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD50 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD100 SOIC 8L RoHS DPAD1 Die DPAD2 Die DPAD5 Die DPAD10 Die DPAD20 Die DPAD50 Die DPAD100 Die Datasheet Spice Model Application Notes

< Back DMOS High Speed Switches by Linear Systems Linear Systems Jun 17, 2024 The Linear Systems family of DMOS devices is designed to handle a wide range of video, fast ATE, telecom and other analog switching applications. These components are capable of ultrafast switching speeds (tr = 1 ns, tOFF = 3 ns) and excellent transient response. Thanks to reduced parasitic capacitances, our DMOS can handle wideband signals with high off-isolation and minimum crosstalk. Linear Systems is a leading manufacturer of DMOS high speed switches , providing innovative solutions for a wide range of applications. Our advanced DMOS technology allows for faster switching times, lower power consumption and improved reliability. In this article, we will explore the features and benefits of our DMOS high speed switches in more detail. Introduction to DMOS High Speed Switches DMOS (Double-Diffused Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor) technology is a type of power MOSFET (Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor Field-Effect Transistor) commonly used in high speed switching applications. It offers several advantages over traditional bipolar junction transistors, such as higher breakdown voltage, faster switching times and lower on-resistance. This makes DMOS high speed switches ideal for use in a variety of industries, including telecommunications, automotive and aerospace. Features of DMOS High Speed Switches DMOS high speed switches offer several key features that make them stand out from other types of power MOSFETs. These include: Higher breakdown voltage: DMOS technology allows for higher breakdown voltage compared to other MOSFETs. This means that DMOS high speed switches can handle higher voltages without being damaged, making them suitable for use in high power applications. Faster switching times: Due to the low capacitance and on-resistance of DMOS high speed switches, they are able to switch on and off much faster than traditional bipolar junction transistors. This results in improved overall system performance and efficiency. Lower power consumption: DMOS technology offers lower on-resistance, which translates to less power being wasted as heat. This makes DMOS high speed switches a more energy-efficient option for systems that require frequent switching. Benefits of Using DMOS High Speed Switches The use of DMOS high speed switches can bring a number of benefits to various applications, including: Improved performance: With their faster switching times and lower on-resistance, DMOS high speed switches can help improve the overall performance and efficiency of electronic systems. Higher power handling capabilities: The higher breakdown voltage of DMOS technology allows for higher power handling capabilities, making DMOS high speed switches suitable for use in high power applications such as motor control and power supplies. Cost-effectiveness: Due to their lower power consumption and improved performance, the use of DMOS high speed switches can result in cost savings over time. Compact size: The low on-resistance of DMOS high speed switches allows for them to be made in smaller sizes, making them ideal for use in compact electronic devices and systems. Reliability: DMOS technology has been extensively researched and developed, resulting in highly reliable high speed switches that can operate efficiently over a wide range of temperatures and voltages. Overall, the use of DMOS high speed switches offers a number of advantages over other types of switches, making them a popular choice for various applications in industries such as automotive, aerospace, and consumer electronics. With ongoing advancements in DMOS technology, these high speed switches are expected to continue improving and becoming more versatile for use in a wide range of electronic systems. So, it is clear that DMOS high speed switches play an important role in the advancement of modern technology and will continue to do so in the future. DMOS high speed switches are also compatible with various control methods, such as pulse width modulation (PWM) and pulse frequency modulation (PFM), making them suitable for use in a variety of electronic systems that require precise control over switching frequency and duty cycle. They can also be easily integrated into existing electronic circuits, making them a versatile choice for design engineers. Moreover, DMOS high speed switches offer low switching losses and fast response times, which helps reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) in electronic systems. This is especially beneficial for applications that require high levels of efficiency and minimal noise, such as power converters and motor controllers. In addition to these advantages, DMOS high speed switches also have a high current handling capability, making them ideal for high power applications. This is due to their low on-resistance and efficient heat dissipation properties, allowing them to handle large currents without overheating. Furthermore, DMOS high speed switches are designed with built-in protection features such as overcurrent protection (OCP) and thermal shutdown (TSD), ensuring safe and reliable operation even under harsh conditions. Overall, the continued advancements in DMOS technology have led to the development of high speed switches that offer a wide range of benefits for various electronic systems. With their versatility, efficiency, and reliability, these switches are expected to play a crucial role in driving the progress of modern technology. From consumer electronics to industrial applications, DMOS high speed switches are paving the way for more efficient, compact, and reliable electronic systems. As technology continues to evolve, it's likely that DMOS high speed switches will continue to be a key component in driving innovation and progress in the electronic industry. So whether you're designing a power converter for renewable energy sources or a motor controller for electric vehicles, consider using DMOS high speed switches to take advantage of their numerous benefits and contribute to the advancement of technology. With these high speed switches, the possibilities for electronic applications are endless. The future is bright for DMOS technology and we can expect even more exciting developments in the years to come. In conclusion, DMOS high speed switches have revolutionized the field of power electronics by offering a unique combination of speed, efficiency, and reliability. Through continuous advancements in technology, these switches have become an integral part of modern electronic systems and are expected to play a crucial role in the future of technology. So whether you're an engineer working on cutting-edge technologies or a consumer benefiting from the convenience of electronic devices, DMOS high speed switches have helped make it all possible. As we continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, DMOS technology will undoubtedly continue to play a pivotal role in driving innovation and progress. So let's embrace the potential of DMOS high speed switches and see where they take us next in our technological journey. The possibilities are limitless! So why wait? Start incorporating DMOS high speed switches into your designs today and be a part of the exciting future of technology. Happy switching! #DMOS #highspeedswitches #technology #innovation Why DMOS High Speed Switches Are Crucial for Driving Innovation in the Electronic Industry The electronic industry is constantly evolving and pushing the boundaries of what is possible, and a key component in this progress has been the development of DMOS high speed switches. These switches have become essential in various electronic applications, from power supplies and motor drives to telecommunications and consumer electronics. But what sets DMOS high speed switches apart from other switch technologies? Let's take a closer look at why these switches are crucial for driving innovation in the electronic industry. Speed One of the most significant advantages of DMOS high speed switches is their speed. These switches are capable of switching on and off at incredibly high speeds, making them ideal for use in applications that require rapid switching. This speed is essential for efficient operation and precise control in electronic devices. Efficiency Efficiency is another critical factor in the electronic industry, and DMOS high speed switches excel in this aspect as well. These switches have a low on-resistance, meaning they can handle high currents without significant power losses. This efficiency not only helps to reduce energy consumption but also allows for the design of smaller and more compact electronic devices. Reliability Reliability is crucial in any electronic device, and DMOS high speed switches have proven to be highly reliable over the years. These switches are designed to withstand harsh environments and high operating temperatures, making them suitable for use in a wide range of applications. This reliability ensures that electronic devices equipped with DMOS high speed switches can perform consistently and without failure. Versatility One of the most significant advantages of DMOS high speed switches is their versatility. These switches can be used in a variety of electronic applications, from low voltage to high voltage applications. They are also suitable for both AC and DC circuits, making them a popular choice among electronic design engineers. Innovation The constant need for innovation in the electronic industry drives the development of new technologies, and DMOS high speed switches play a crucial role in this process. These switches provide designers with more options and flexibility when it comes to creating innovative electronic devices. With their high-speed performance and efficiency, DMOS switches enable the development of cutting-edge products such as smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. Sustainable Development In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on sustainable development in the electronic industry. DMOS high speed switches contribute to this cause by being energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. With reduced power consumption and fewer emissions, these switches help to minimize the overall environmental impact of electronic devices. This makes them a vital component in the development of more sustainable and eco-friendly technology. Conclusion In conclusion, DMOS high speed switches are a crucial component in modern electronic devices. With their reliability, versatility, innovative capabilities, and contribution to sustainable development, these switches play a significant role in driving the advancement of the electronic industry. As technology continues to evolve, it is certain that DMOS high speed switches will continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of electronic devices. So, it is important for electronic design engineers to stay updated with the latest developments and advancements in DMOS high speed switch technology to unlock its full potential in their designs. With this powerful tool at their disposal, designers can push the boundaries of what is possible in the electronic world and create truly groundbreaking products. So, let's embrace DMOS high speed switches and continue to innovate and improve the way we interact with technology. The possibilities are endless! So go ahead and explore all that DMOS has to offer for your next electronic design project.

GENERAL PURPOSE, LOW-NOISE, LOW-COST, SINGLE N-CHANNEL JFET, REPLACEMENT FOR THE BF510 < Back LSBF510 GENERAL PURPOSE, LOW-NOISE, LOW-COST, SINGLE N-CHANNEL JFET, REPLACEMENT FOR THE BF510 The LSBF510 is a low-cost N-Channel JFET. Features include low leakage, very low noise, low cutoff voltage (VGS(off) ≤ 2.5V) and high Gain (AV = 80 V/V) for use with low-level power supplies. The LSBF510 is excellent for battery powered equipment and low current amplifiers. The TO-236 (SOT-23) package provides surface-mount capability. The LSBF510 is available in tape-and-reel for automated assembly and in die form for automated assembly. Advanced screening options are available for our diverse product lineup, featuring JFETS, Bipolar transistors, MOSFETs, current regulators, and Diodes. Our special screening covers all the parameters listed in the standard datasheet, including comprehensive package pin-out. Connect with our experienced technical team to discuss your specific needs and tailor your requirements—email us at support@linearsystems.com or call (510) 490-9160. MOQ applies to these specialized services. Ordering Information Below are the options you have when ordering this part series: LSBF510 SOT-23 3L RoHS LSBF510 Die Datasheet Spice Model Application Notes

SINGLE P-CHANNEL JFET SWITCH < Back J/SST174 Series SINGLE P-CHANNEL JFET SWITCH The J/SST174 Series Low On-Resistance, P-Channel JFET Switch is a direct replacement for the Fairchild and Siliconix-Vishay part series. It is ideal for low resistance, low operating current switching applications. Available in the DFN 8L RoHS, TO-92 3L RoHS and SOT-23 3L RoHS package, as well as in die form. Advanced screening options are available for our diverse product lineup, featuring JFETS, Bipolar transistors, MOSFETs, current regulators, and Diodes. Our special screening covers all the parameters listed in the standard datasheet, including comprehensive package pin-out. Connect with our experienced technical team to discuss your specific needs and tailor your requirements—email us at support@linearsystems.com or call (510) 490-9160. MOQ applies to these specialized services. Ordering Information Below are the options you have when ordering this part series: 174DFN 8L RoHS 175DFN 8L RoHS 176DFN 8L RoHS 177DFN 8L RoHS J174 TO-92 3L RoHS J175 TO-92 3L RoHS J176 TO-92 3L RoHS J177 TO-92 3L RoHS SST174 SOT-23 3L RoHS SST175 SOT-23 3L RoHS SST176 SOT-23 3L RoHS SST177 SOT-23 3L RoHS J174 Die J175 Die J176 Die J177 Die Datasheet Spice Model Application Notes

< Back App Note by Dimitri Danyuk Linear Systems Mar 17, 2023 Headphone Amplifier Evaluation Board Linear Integrated Systems headphone amplifier evaluation board is a complete, low-power stereo audio amplifier for high-fidelity line-level output and headphone applications. It consists of Linear Integrated Systems JFETs along with a number of other parts mounted on a circuit board. Linear Integrated Systems headphone amplifier evaluation board includes the following features: Stereo, single ended input and single ended output 400 mW output power into 100Ω Wide frequency response (10Hz?200kHz; ?1dB) Voltage gain 5 (14dB) Low distortion (THD+N is less than 1% at 10Hz?20kHz at 5Vrms into 100Ω and less than 0.1% from 10 Hz to 20 kHz at 1Vrms into 100Ω load) Short circuit protection Pop reduction (slow start) circuit Defeatable cross feed circuit Volume control Overvoltage and reverse polarity power protection Audio input and output connections: left and right RCA phono jack inputs, ¼” stereo phone jack output External 9V–16V supply input External power supply connector: power jack, inside diameter 2.1mm, outside diameter 5.5mm

< Back Bipolar Transistors Linear Systems Jul 16, 2024 Linear Systems’ Monolithic Dual NPN and PNP transistors consist of two transistors on the same piece of silicon resulting in better matching and better performance over temperature. These parts are designed for general purpose amplifier and switching applications. Bipolar Transistors by Linear Systems Bipolar transistors are electronic devices that can amplify or switch electric signals. They consist of three layers of a semiconductor material, each with different properties. The two most common types of bipolar transistors are NPN and PNP. Linear Systems is a company known for producing high-quality bipolar transistors. Founded in 1984, it has become one of the leading manufacturers in the industry. In this article, we will discuss the features and benefits of using bipolar transistors by Linear Systems. Features One of the key features of bipolar transistors by Linear Systems is their low noise and high gain characteristics. This makes them ideal for use in audio amplifiers and other applications where low distortion is critical. Another feature of Linear Systems' bipolar transistors is their high current handling capability. They are designed to handle large currents, making them suitable for power electronics applications. Benefits The low noise and high gain properties of Linear Systems' bipolar transistors result in improved signal quality and better performance in electronic circuits. This is especially important in communication systems, where even the slightest amount of distortion can cause significant issues. Furthermore, due to their high current handling capability, these transistors provide efficient power management in electronic devices. This leads to lower power consumption and longer battery life. Applications Linear Systems' bipolar transistors have a wide range of applications in various industries. Some common uses include: Audio amplifiers and preamplifiers Power supplies Switching circuits Motor control circuits LED drivers These transistors are also used in communication systems, such as cell phones, radios, and televisions. Conclusion In conclusion, Linear Systems' bipolar transistors offer superior performance and reliability compared to other options on the market. Their low noise and high gain characteristics make them ideal for critical applications where signal quality is essential. Additionally, their high current handling capability allows for efficient power management and longer battery life. With a track record of excellence in the industry, it is no surprise that Linear Systems' bipolar transistors are trusted and widely used in a variety of electronic devices and systems. So, these transistors are an excellent choice for engineers and designers looking for high-quality components for their electronic projects. So, next time you need a bipolar transistor, consider using one from Linear Systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability in your circuit design. With their advanced technology and commitment to quality, you can trust that Linear Systems' bipolar transistors will meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Overall, these transistors offer numerous benefits and have a wide range of applications, making them an essential component in many electronic systems. View our Bipolar Transistors

Navigate the Purchase Order Terms and Conditions page for our Fremont-based semiconductor manufacturer and gain insights into our business practices. Purchase Order Terms and Conditions A. The term "Company" as used herein shall mean Linear Integrated Systems, Inc. B. The term "Buyer" as used herein shall mean a party placing a purchase order for the Company products (the "Products"). C. THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF SALE (THE "TERMS") ARE THE ONLY TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE PARTIES. ANY AND ALL ADDITIONAL OR DIFFERENT TERMS, WHETHER IN A PURCHASE ORDER OR OTHER DOCUMENT GIVEN BEFORE OR AFTER THESE TERMS, ARE SPECIFICALLY REJECTED AND SHALL NOT BECOME PART OF THESE TERMS UNLESS AGREED TO IN WRITING BY THE COMPANY. 1. SCOPE These Terms apply to all quotations and offers made by and purchase orders accepted by the Company. Acceptance of Buyer's order is conditioned upon Buyer's acceptance of these Terms, whether by written acknowledgment, implication, or acceptance and payment of goods ordered. Any conflicting or additional terms provided by the Buyer are specifically rejected. Any changes in these Terms must be agreed upon in writing by a corporate officer of the Company. 2. PRICES, TAXES, AND DUTIES Prices are quoted in U.S. Dollars and may change without notice. Prices are firm and not subject to renegotiation, except at the Company's discretion. All prices exclude international duties, foreign taxes, and US federal, state, and local taxes. Buyer shall pay all applicable taxes and duties and indemnify the Company against any related expenses. Any price reductions based on volume discounts will be revoked if the Buyer reduces the number of parts purchased below discount levels. All price quotations are valid for 30 days, and parts must be delivered within 180 days from the quotation date. The Company may extend the validity of quotations at its discretion. 3. PAYMENT TERMS Payments shall be in U.S. Dollars. Net terms may be granted upon approval. Customer agrees to remit payment for the invoice in full by the agreed-upon due date. Should payment extend beyond the specified Net Terms, Customer acknowledges and accepts that any outstanding fee not settled within five (5) days from its due date shall accrue interest at a rate of 2.5% per month, commencing from the fifth (5th) day after the due date until payment is made. Upon payment, all fees become nonrefundable. Linear Systems retains the right, at its discretion and at any point, to adjust the monthly interest rate for overdue invoices. The Company may require payment in advance or C.O.D. The Company may suspend performance or require cash payment or other assurances if Buyer’s financial condition warrants it. Payment must be made in Alameda County, California, where any collection action may be brought. Cancellations or reschedules must be requested in writing within seven (7) days of order submission. Otherwise, the Buyer must pay liquidated damages equivalent to the full purchase price. 4. TITLE AND DELIVERY All sales are EXW (Incoterms 2000) point of shipment in the U.S. Title passes to the Buyer upon receipt of payment in full. The Company is not responsible for damage or delays after delivery to the carrier. Any claims for damages must be filed with the carrier. Shortage claims must be made within ten (10) days of shipment arrival. The Company may deliver in installments and is not liable for failure to meet delivery schedules or costs of procuring substitute goods. 5. ACCEPTANCE Buyer must inspect products upon receipt and file any claims for damage, shortages, or nonconformity immediately. Claims must be made within 30 days of receipt. No returns are accepted without a Return Material Authorization ("RMA"). 6. LIMITED WARRANTY The Company warrants products against defects in workmanship and materials for 90 days, subject to terms and conditions. The warranty does not apply to products subject to misuse, neglect, or unauthorized modifications. The Company's liability is limited to rescreening, reprocessing, replacing nonconforming products, or issuing credit for the purchase price. Warranty is contingent upon full payment. All other warranties are disclaimed. 7. INFRINGEMENT Buyer indemnifies the Company against any claims of intellectual property infringement resulting from compliance with Buyer’s designs or specifications. The Company is not liable for any infringement claims arising from the use of products in combination with non-Company products. 8. FORCE MAJEURE The Company is not liable for failure to perform due to unforeseen circumstances or causes beyond its control, such as natural disasters, war, or labor shortages. Delivery dates may be deferred during such delays. 9. CANCELLATIONS AND RESCHEDULES No cancellations or reschedules will be accepted within thirty (30) days of the earliest requested ship date. 10. LIMITATION OF LIABILITY The Company, its employees, officers, and directors are not liable for any breach of this Agreement, product order, or terms and conditions for business interruption costs, special, incidental, or consequential damages. Liability is limited to the amount paid by the Buyer for the products giving rise to the claim. 11. LIFE SUPPORT AND OTHER APPLICATIONS The Company's products are not authorized for use in life support devices or other critical applications without express written approval. Buyer assumes full risk and liability for such use and indemnifies the Company against related claims. 12. MIL-STD CLASS H AND CLASS K APPLICATIONS The Company's products are not authorized for use in MIL-STD Class H and Class K applications without express written approval. Buyer assumes full risk and liability for such use and indemnifies the Company against related claims. 13. EXPORT CONTROL Buyer agrees to comply with all applicable U.S. and destination country laws and regulations, including export controls. Buyer indemnifies the Company against damages from breaches of these laws. 14. LEAD-FREE, ROHS COMPLIANT PARTS The Company warrants products to be lead-free and RoHS compliant when ordered correctly. Electrical performance is guaranteed, but packaging reliability is not. Buyer indemnifies the Company against claims related to the use of non-compliant parts. 15. PRODUCT DISCONTINUANCE The Company reserves the right to discontinue any product at any time, with an attempt to provide twelve (12) months' notice. The Company is not liable for costs or damages due to product discontinuance. 16. ORDER ACCEPTANCE The Company reserves the right to reject any purchase order and is not liable for costs or damages resulting from non-acceptance. Selected parts are sold on a Non-Cancellable, Non-Returnable basis. Buyer’s purchases are final and subject to terms and conditions for NCNR parts. 17. DATECODE POLICY Linear Systems does not accept any restrictions on the sale or shipment of parts based on the device date code unless there are design-specific technical requirements agreed upon by both Linear Systems and the buyer. Linear Systems reserves the right to ship any date code for customer orders and samples. Linear Systems does not acknowledge a correlation between field failures and date codes exceeding 36 months. The Linear Systems Warranty applies to all products regardless of device date codes. 18. CONTROLLING LAW These terms and conditions are governed by the laws of the State of California, with sole jurisdiction and venue in Alameda County, California. 19. GENERAL LEGAL Linear Systems sells product based on our Terms & Conditions, not those of the purchaser. These terms constitute the entire contract and supersede all previous communications. Any changes must be agreed upon in writing. Unenforceable sections do not affect the remaining terms. Failure to enforce any provision does not waive it. Notices must be in writing and sent to the specified Company address. The prevailing party in any legal action is entitled to recover attorney's fees and costs. Rev K 052825

TIGHTLY MATCHED, MONOLITHIC DUAL, NPN TRANSISTOR < Back LS3250 Series - Dual TIGHTLY MATCHED, MONOLITHIC DUAL, NPN TRANSISTOR Previous Next

< Back AEA Linear Systems Mar 17, 2023 AEA’s Ribbon Microphones & Linears’ JFETs AEA When John Kurlander sought to capture the vast array of sound for the Lord of the Rings movies, he turned to Wes Dooley and his ribbon microphones. And for years, when Wes needed ultra-low-noise semiconductors to build and amplify those microphones, he turned to Linear Systems, Inc. “Linear Systems has kept that tradition going of making parts that are competitive with the [discontinued Toshiba] SK170s and 389s,” Dooley said in a recent interview. “And that gives us the ability to make compact, high-performance audio products.” “We make the quietest ribbon mic in the world, the A440, and the higher SPL A840. Both of them use the [Linear Systems] LSK389, for the output drivers and their current supply,” Dooley said. Dooley's company, Audio Engineering Associates (AEA), also uses the LSK389 in front ends of its RPQ and RPQ 500 preamplifiers, which were designed for use with ribbon microphones. AEA's microphone business started with ribbon mics for classical music used as movie scores. “John Kurlander did all three Lord of the Rings using AEA mics on strings left and right almost as strong in the mix as the main orchestra mics,” Dooley said. “When you work with such people, one really learns to be of service.” AEA's customer list reads like a Who's Who of Grammy and Academy Award-winning recording engineers and artists. Among the many examples, sound engineer Michael Bishop, winner of eight Grammy awards, extensively uses AEA's A840 microphones and AEA preamps for his recordings. Shawn Murphy, who's worked on over 330 films and won an Academy award for Jurassic Park, also relies on AEA's preamps and microphones. One of the best parts of AEA's website is the long list of reviews and mentions by users . Dooley, a lifelong ribbon microphone enthusiast and developer, got into the business by repairing ribbon mics built by RCA during the golden age of radio. “We started servicing mics in '76 when RCA shut down making them,” he said. “Many of our favorite RCA designs were from the mid '30s, when a designer's foremost tool was listening to live music. Critical listening was the gold standard as acoustical measurements were cumbersome.” “We've adopted that approach, which is: musicality trumps metrics. The mic has to sound good to people in the music business,” Dooley said. “If it doesn't sound good, measurements don't matter. Once you have a mic that sounds good to people who have experienced ears, then measurements are very important, as they are the key to consistent production.” “So we first strive to make sure it sounds musical, and then we measure what it does,” Dooley said. “Because, as one of my mentors, Richard Heyser, said, if it measures well but doesn't sound right, then you're measuring the wrong things. Often you find you don't know what the right thing to measure is. Over time you discover what those metrics might be. Ultimately, it's a matter of how it sounds. Since we come from an acoustic music tradition, it's pretty simple: you put the mic in front of live music, and compare that live sound with the reproduction, to see how close it is.” Dooley told the story of working with legendary bluegrass fiddle player/violinist Richard Greene. Greene, along with his wife, a violinist with the LA Chamber Orchestra, recorded samples using over 20 microphones. “The next day, when they had 'fresh ears,' they listened to all the recordings and said the one made using our ribbon microphones was the best,” Dooley said. “And that's what we try for, for the musicians to experience that this is the closest they've ever heard to an actual performance.” Asked to comment for this article, Greene had high praise for Dooley and his microphones. “Silky, smooth, best violin sound I ever heard, Wes is amazing and his tech support and other free maintenance are over the top,” Greene wrote. “I will never have any use for any other mic on my violin. I have the AEA 440.” Dooley said this close interaction with artists drives how he builds microphones and preamps. “The whole thing,” he said, “is to build tools they need. That is the key to survival for a small business doing high-performance products.” The LSK389 “is a very good part for manufacturing,” Dooley said. AEA uses the “C” grade of the LSK389. “We started with the 'A' [grade], but then we realized it didn't make any difference for what we were doing,” he said. The LSK389 is graded by IDSS ; all three grades have the same ultra-low-noise characteristics. The Linear Systems LSK389 part used by AEA is an ultra-low-noise junction field effect transistor. Linear System Founder and CEO John H. Hall began working on a JFET similar to Toshiba's 2SK389 about the time that the Japanese company began to discontinue the device 10 years ago. “Toshiba kept its production process for the 389 secret, so we had to figure out on our own how to build something to the same specification, which was extremely difficult,” Hall said. Expertise brought to Linear Systems is based on processes and products Hall developed since 1962 at Amelco, Union Carbide, Intersil, and Micro Power Systems. Hall, a protégé of Silicon Valley legend Dr. Jean Hoerni, was the director of IC Development at Union Carbide, co-founder and vice president of R&D at Intersil, and founder/president of Micro Power Systems. Much of Linear Systems' current development work focuses on lower-noise JFETs. The production techniques Hall conceived to squeeze the last bit of noise out of the 389 led to development of another part, the LSK489. The LSK489 has less transconductance than the 389, and though this increases noise slightly, it makes the part easier to design into new circuits. “While the 389 is the perfect part for some users, such as Wes Dooley, who need the lowest noise levels in existence, we found that the high gate-to-drain capacitance of the 389 caused problems for some of our other customers,” Hall said. “Building a high transconductance part, such as the 389, formed part of the basis for providing ultra-low-noise levels, but the high input capacitance causes intermodulation distortion in some higher-frequency applications,” Hall said. “Since we had created some advanced processing techniques to make the 389, we decided to go back and look at creating a part with lower capacitance using the same processes.” Though Dooley's ribbon microphone and other devices take advantage of the 389's low noise level, other developers could tolerate a slightly higher noise level in a part that has much lower input capacitance due to a lower transconductance, Hall said. The lower capacitance and other features make the LSK489 a lower-noise, functional replacement for Linear Systems' LS840-series of JFETs, as well as the Siliconix U401-403 series. Dooley's precision ribbon microphones are perfect applications of the LSK389, Hall said. “Both ribbon microphones and JFETs are very difficult to design and build, but there's really no other way to achieve the level of performance needed than to do the work this way.” The circuit design work using the LSK389s was done for AEA by Fred Forssell of http://www.forsselltech.com . For more on Dooley's microphones, go to: http://www.ribbonmics.com Data sheets for the LSK389 and LSK489, the application notes for the LSK489, and a good paper on general JFET theory and use can be downloaded at: http://linearsystems.com .

< Back FAST SAMPLE AND HOLD Linear Systems Jun 10, 2024 In this interesting design, a strobe pulse sets the sample mode. Here's how it works: When the strobe pulse s —Strobe pulse will turn on JFET Q1 which allows the signal to be sampled to charge capacitor C1. When the strobe pulse returns to 0 V, JFET Q1 is turned off and capacitor C1 holds the voltage value of the sampled signal plus the offset voltage of MOSFET Q 2. The JFET used could be anyone of Linear Integrated Systems switch JFETs. Ideally the lower the drain -to-source voltage the better to reduce the offset voltage of the JFET. The output signal decays at a rate of 1 mV/s. From logic input of 531 op-amp IC2 turns on JFET Q1 to complete feedback loop to IC1, Q1, and Q2. Capacitor C1 charges to voltage equal to that of input signal plus gate-to-source offset voltage of Q2. At end of strobe time, feedback loop is broken and C1 holds voltage until time of next strobe pulse. Decay in output voltage between samplings is 1 mV/s.—"Signetics Analog Data Manual," Signetics, Sunnyvale, CA, 1977, p 643-644.