LM386 Low Voltage Audio Power Amplifier DIP-8

LM386 Low Voltage Audio Power Amplifier DIP-8 is a versatile and compact amplifier IC designed for low-power audio amplification. Operating on low voltages and requiring minimal external components, it is ideal for battery-powered audio projects, DIY radios, intercoms, and mini speaker systems. Its DIP-8 package makes it suitable for breadboard prototyping and through-hole circuit designs.

Key Features:

• Low Voltage Operation: Works with voltages as low as 4V and up to 12V (typical 9V).
• High Gain: Default voltage gain of 20, adjustable up to 200 with external components.
• Low Quiescent Current: Consumes only 4mA of idle current.
• Minimal External Parts: Requires few additional components to function.
• Built-in Features: Includes thermal shutdown and low distortion circuitry.

Technical Specifications:

• Operating Voltage Range: 4V to 12V (or 15V max absolute)
• Voltage Gain: 20 (internal), up to 200 (with external resistor and capacitor)
• Output Power: 0.325W @ 6V, 8Ω speaker
• Quiescent Current: 4mA (typical)
• Input Resistance: 50kΩ
• Frequency Response: 300Hz to 100kHz
• Distortion: Less than 0.2%

Mechanical Specifications:

• Package Type: DIP-8 (Dual Inline Package, 8 pins)
• Pin Pitch: 2.54mm (standard)
• Package Material: Plastic epoxy body
• Dimensions: Approx. 10mm × 6.5mm × 3.5mm

Pinout and Wiring:

• Pin 1 & 8: Gain control (connect capacitor for higher gain)
• Pin 2: Inverting input
• Pin 3: Non-inverting input
• Pin 4: Ground
• Pin 5: Output
• Pin 6: V_CC (Power supply)
• Pin 7: Bypass (optional capacitor to reduce noise)

Datasheet and Documentation:

• Download LM386 Datasheet (PDF)

Applications:

• Portable Speakers: Amplifies sound in compact audio systems.
• DIY Radios: Commonly used in FM/AM radio amplifier stages.
• Intercoms: Useful in two-way communication devices.
• Voice Alert Systems: Amplifies output from voice modules or buzzers.
• Audio Prototyping: Ideal for testing low power audio circuits.

Equivalent Models:

• LM386N-1: Standard low voltage version with 325mW output
• LM386N-3: Medium power version for 6V–12V supplies
• TDA2822: Dual audio amplifier alternative for stereo use
• KA2209: Similar performance, used in small audio gear

Package Includes:

• 1 x LM386 Low Voltage Audio Power Amplifier DIP-8