Linear and special purpose ICs

Linear integrated circuits are defined and distinguished from digital integrated circuits. Linear IC (including both linear and nonlinear analog IC, but defined according to fabrication technology, with technology producing on-chip transistors of higher breakdown voltage than that typical of digital IC) include: comparators, differential amplifiers, operational amplifiers, analog phase lock loops, D/A converters, linear amplifiers, analog multipliers, and voltage regulators. Various types of linear IC are discussed briefly and separately in the article: voltage comparators, sense (read) amplifiers, operational amplifiers, differential video amplifiers, A/D converters, analog multipliers, phase-locked loops, line drivers and line receivers, voltage regulator IC, and timer IC.