Reading OpAmp datasheets I often struggle with the task of determining whether a given model of OpAmp can be used with single supply or not.
Sometimes, there is a plain statement in the features. But most of the time, it is not explicitly written. For example, in the OPA167x datasheet, the manufacturer only says
Wide supply range:– ±2.25V to ±18 V, or 4.5 V to 36 V
I guess thats enough information here, but are there any other cues (or words) that I can look for? Due to english not being my native language I might miss something.
Best Answer
Two parameters affect whether an op amp can support single-supply, low-voltage operation -- minimum total supply voltage, and output voltage swing.
If output voltage max 12V with 15V supply (for example with a classic 741 op amp), then it needs 3V of "headroom". This is not a formal specification, but something that is inferred based on the specified output voltage limits at specified supply voltage test condition (VCC - VOHmin) and the (VSS - VOLmax).
Running a 741 from 5V single supply doesn't work because its output voltage is too constrained, max output voltage would be 2V but min output voltage would be 3V. This forces the output to sit near the center without any ability to drive signal.
Sometimes the output voltage swing is not symmetrical, it may be weaker driving high output and stronger on low output voltage; or there may be "crossover distortion" when it changes from being a current-source to a current-sink. Unfortunately datasheets don't usually call attention to this kind of distortion, except to specify it is guaranteed below some amount.