10.1 Input and ESD Protection

The MCP629x series incorporates internal ESD protection circuits on all pins. For input and output pins, this protection primarily consists of current-steering diodes connected between the input and power-supply pins. These ESD protection diodes provide in-circuit, input overdrive protection, as long as the current is limited to 10-mA, as stated in the Absolute Maximum Ratings table. Figure 35 shows how a series input resistor is added to the driven input to limit the input current. The added resistor contributes thermal noise at the amplifier input and the value must be kept to a minimum in noise-sensitive applications.

Figure 35. Input Current Protection