The TLV181x open-drain output ESD protection consists of a snapback ESD clamp between the output and V- to allow the output to be pulled above V+ to a maximum of 40 V. There is no "upper" ESD clamp diode between the output and V+ on the open-drain output. There is a "lower" clamp between V- and the output.

The TLV182x push-pull output ESD protection contains a conventional diode-type "upper" ESD clamp between the output and V+, and a "lower" ESD clamp between the output and V-. The output must not exceed the supply rails by more than 200mV.

If the inputs are to be connected to a low impedance source, such as a power supply or buffered reference line, TI recommends adding a current-limiting resistor in series with the input to limit any currents when the clamps conduct. The current must be limited 10 mA or less, though TI recommends limitng the current to 1mA or less. This series resistance may be part of any resistive input dividers or networks.