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How to read datasheets

Which correctly describes "typ (typical)" in an electrical characteristics table?

  1. AThe most reliable value in the table, measured and verified on every unit in pre-shipment testing
  2. BA guide to the representative value when many units are measured; it is not guaranteed for individual units
  3. CA value for design use, calculated as the average of the minimum (min) and maximum (max)
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Answer: B. A guide to the representative value when many units are measured; it is not guaranteed for individual units

The typ value is a guide to the representative value near the center of the characteristic's spread, usually at 25 °C and nominal supply voltage. Individual units are not guaranteed to have this value. What the manufacturer guarantees are the min/max values, which are backed by production testing and characterization. The typ is not necessarily midway between min and max, and parameters given only as typ should be treated as reference values. Design calculations should basically use min or max, depending on the conditions.

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  1. A load switch (an IC that turns a power rail on and off) has a current limit specified as min 1.0 A, typ 1.5 A, max 2.2 A. You want to draw up to 1.2 A for the load. Which judgment is correct?
  2. The top of an electrical characteristics table states "Ta = 25 °C, VDD = 3.3 V unless otherwise noted." Which is a correct point to note when reading this table?
  3. In an electrical characteristics table, what does a footnote saying "Guaranteed by design and characterization; not production tested" mean for that parameter?
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