Linear Systems Reintroduces LSK389
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attapapaLinear Systems Reintroduces LSK389
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attapapaLinear Systems Reintroduces LSK389 Ultra-Low Noise N-Channel
JFET
February 26 2020, 00:20
Linear Systems has reintroduced its most popular part, the LSK389, which the Silicon Valley company
calls the industry’s first 100% noise tested, ultra-low noise (en = 1.3nV/√Hz (typ), f = 1.0kHz and NBW =
1.0Hz), monolithic dual, n-channel JFET. New test capability screens to a billionth of a volt (nV/√Hz) of
noise now ensures that all LSK389s devices produce no burst (RTN or popcorn) noise and meet or
exceed 1/f and broadband noise specifications.
The LSK389 is the lowest noise Junction Field Effect Transistor (JFET) in its class and has been used in
ultra-high-end audio applications for over a decade. The LSK389 enables developers to create the
lowest noise signal chains possible for sensors, professional audio equipment and other applications.
Now, Linear Systems is releasing the LSK389 after creating the capability for individual screening of
small-signal discrete components to levels below a billionth of a volt (nV/√Hz) of noise in quantities up to
tens of thousands of parts. This testing capability – the only one in existence worldwide – ensures all
LSK389s leaving the factory produce no burst (RTN or popcorn) noise and meet or exceed 1/f and
broadband noise specifications.
"The LSK389, Ultra-Low Noise, Monolithic Dual, N-Channel JFET provides designers with a better-
performing solution for obtaining tighter IDSS matching and better thermal tracking than using individual
JFETs or non-monolithic dual JFETs," Linear Systems President Tim McCune says. The part is an ideal
combination of high transconductance, ultra-low noise and relatively low input capacitance.
The LSK389 is the lead part of Linear Systems’ family of low-noise JFETs. The LSK170 is the N-channel
single version of the LSK389, and the LSJ74 is the P-channel counterpart to the LSK170. The N-
channel dual LSK489 has slightly higher noise but lower input capacitance than the LSK389, and the
LSJ689 is its P-channel dual counterpart. In addition to the LSK-series, all Linear Systems’ JFET
standard products have substantially lower noise than those made by other manufacturers and are
marketed under the Improved Standard Products trademark.
“The LSK389 is the key to building the world’s lowest-noise signal chains for many applications,” adds
McCune. “Creating our new testing capability enables us to guarantee each part we ship meets our
ultra-low noise spec, and that no manufacturer will ever have to scrap a circuit board because these
parts didn’t work correctly.”
Linear Systems is a full-service, privately-held, 32-year-old designer and manufacturer of small-signal
discrete semiconductors. The Fremont, CA-based company was founded by John H. Hall, co-founder of
Intersil and founder of Micro Power Systems. Linear Systems specializes in the development and
manufacture of precision, ultra-low noise small-signal discrete components. Its parts are used in highly
demanding sensor systems ranging from the Large-Scale Synoptic Telescope to piezoelectric devices to
sonobuoys. These parts also provide the front-end amplification for high-end test and measurement,
medical and audio equipment. In addition to providing parts and technical support for new designs,
Linear Systems supplies pin-for-pin replacements for more than 2,000 discrete devices currently offered
or discontinued by National Semiconductor, Siliconix-Vishay, Intersil, Motorola, Fairchild and Toshiba.
Price: 1,000+ pieces of the LSK389A SOIC 8L package is $4.67 (USD) each. 1,000+ pieces of the
LSK389A TO-71 6L package is $6.70 (USD) each. Prices vary based on grade (A, B, C and D) and
quantity. Production quantities are available now.
www.linearsystems.com
Click here to download the application note: LSK389 Dual Monolithic JFET For Ultra Low Noise
Applications by: Bob Cordell
