Question
What happens if I apply a large differential input voltage across the input
pins?
Answer
The input pins have internal 120Ω series resistors at each terminal and clamped
diodes to each other. These diodes protect the input devices from large
differential input voltages. However, when a differential voltage exceeding
600mV is applied to the amplifier, the clamped diodes conduct current; in this
condition, the differential input resistance falls to 240Ω. It is highly
possible that a significant amount of current would flow through these
protection diodes. Always ensure that the current flowing into the input pins
is limited to the absolute maximum of 10mA.