How to read datasheets
In an electrical characteristics table, what does a footnote saying "Guaranteed by design and characterization; not production tested" mean for that parameter?
- ANot every unit is measured, but the manufacturer guarantees the value based on design and characterization data
- BThe value is shown for reference only, and the manufacturer guarantees nothing about it
- CThe value is measured on every unit before shipment and is the most tightly controlled in the table
Show answer and explanation
Answer: A. Not every unit is measured, but the manufacturer guarantees the value based on design and characterization data
In production testing, not every parameter is measured on every unit, owing to test time and cost. Parameters that are hard to measure, such as input capacitance and some timing parameters, are guaranteed by design analysis and by characterization data taken while varying temperature and supply voltage. A min/max value with this note can still be treated as guaranteed, but since it is not based on 100% testing, it is safer to use it with margin. Read it as distinct from typ values, which are not guaranteed.