Description
The TL084CN is the “Quad” version of the TL081. It houses four independent, high-speed, JFET-input operational amplifiers in a single 14-pin package. It is essentially the industry-standard choice when you need the high-performance characteristics of the TL081 series but want to save board space by using a single chip for multiple signal stages.
Key Specifications
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Number of Op-Amps: 4 (Quad)
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Input Stage: JFET (Very high input impedance)
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Slew Rate: 13 V/µs (Fast response)
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Input Bias Current: 30 pA (Very low)
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Supply Voltage: Up to ±18V
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Package Type: DIP-14 (Plastic package)
Pinout Configuration (DIP-14)
The TL084CN uses a standard quad-op-amp pinout.
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Output 1
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Inverting Input 1
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Non-Inverting Input 1
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VCC+
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Non-Inverting Input 2
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Inverting Input 2
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Output 2
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Output 3
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Inverting Input 3
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Non-Inverting Input 3
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VCC-
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Non-Inverting Input 4
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Inverting Input 4
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Output 4
Why Choose the TL084CN?
If you have a design that requires multiple filtering or amplification stages—like a stereo audio equalizer or a multi-channel sensor array—the TL084CN is significantly more efficient than using four individual TL081s.
| Feature | TL084CN | TL081 |
| Op-Amps per IC | 4 | 1 |
| Package | 14-pin DIP | 8-pin DIP |
| Board Space | Efficient | Larger |
| Performance | Identical | Identical |
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Note: Unlike the TL081, the quad TL084CN does not have dedicated Offset Null pins. If your application requires precise zero-offset calibration, you must either add a trim circuit externally or choose the single TL081 for those specific stages.
Common Applications
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Multi-Stage Active Filters: Because it has four amps, you can easily build a 4th-order filter (like a Butterworth or Sallen-Key) using just one chip.
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Audio Mixing Consoles: Perfect for buffering and summing multiple audio channels.
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Instrumentation Amplifiers: Used in designs requiring high input impedance to avoid loading down sensitive sensors.
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Precision Rectifiers: Using multiple stages to accurately convert AC to DC for measurement.
Usage Best Practices
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Power Supply: Like the TL081, this is designed for dual-polarity supplies. If you are using it in a single-supply circuit, ensure you provide a “virtual ground” bias (usually at $V_{CC}/2$) to the non-inverting inputs.
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Decoupling: With four high-speed amplifiers inside one package, the risk of supply-line noise is higher. Place a $0.1\mu\text{F}$ ceramic capacitor (and often a larger $10\mu\text{F}$ electrolytic capacitor) as close as possible to the power pins (4 and 11) to maintain stability.
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Thermal Management: While not a power IC, driving four heavy loads simultaneously can increase internal temperatures. Ensure adequate airflow if you are operating at the higher end of the voltage/current limits.

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