SNOAA35F April 2019 – December 2024 LM2901 , LM2901B , LM2901B-Q1 , LM2903 , LM2903-Q1 , LM2903B , LM2903B-Q1 , LM339 , LM339-N , LM393 , LM393-N , LM393B , LM397 , TL331 , TL331-Q1 , TL331B
Under certain conditions, the polarity of the output can become incorrect. This scenario, called phase reversal or inversion, occurs when the input of the comparator violates the negative common-mode voltage range. As explained previously, exceeding the positive common mode range tends to result in predictable behavior. But a negative input voltage, relative to the GND pin, can come from unexpected sources, such as switching noise or ground bounce from DC to DC converters. Negative input voltages can also arise from AC capacitor coupled inputs that create a bipolar voltage at the input.
An input voltage of less than –0.3V can cause parasitic device conduction (Figure 6-6, point A) that results in incorrect output behavior. Operation in this region is not defined in the data sheet as this violates the -0.3V absolute maximum specification for input voltage. The input current turns on internal parasitic NPN transistors that steal current from other internal nodes causing output phase reversal.
Do not try to determine phase reversal performance empirically as different units can have different performance across lots and processes. Negative input voltages must be avoided, assuming a single supply configuration, unless the application can accept either the VOL or VOH level during the duration of the negative input.