Editorial Technical Reference

Sample-and-Hold Circuit

This page explains how Sample-and-Hold Circuit is classified within Computer, Electronic and Optical Product Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

An electronic circuit that captures and holds an analog voltage signal at a specific instant in time for subsequent processing.

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Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Sample-and-Hold Circuit

Definition
A sample-and-hold circuit is a fundamental component used in analog-to-digital conversion systems, particularly within an Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) chip. Its primary function is to temporarily store the instantaneous value of a continuously varying analog input signal. This 'frozen' voltage level is then presented to the ADC's quantizer for conversion into a stable digital value. By holding the signal constant during the conversion process, the circuit prevents signal changes from corrupting the measurement, thereby ensuring accuracy. The circuit operates in two phases controlled by a clock signal. In the 'sample' phase, a switch (typically a MOSFET) closes, connecting the input to a storage capacitor, which charges to the instantaneous input voltage. In the 'hold' phase, the switch opens, isolating the capacitor. An operational amplifier in a voltage-follower configuration then reads and outputs the held voltage from the capacitor with high input impedance, maintaining the stored level for the ADC's conversion cycle. The circuit is typically fabricated on a silicon substrate using semiconductor manufacturing processes, with metal interconnects, silicon dioxide as an insulator, and a polymer passivation layer. The input voltage range is a key specification, measured in volts (V), indicating the range of analog signals the circuit can accurately sample and hold. For specific applications, it is essential to verify the exact input voltage range and other parameters with the legal manufacturer or supplier, as these values may vary depending on the model and intended use. The sample-and-hold circuit is a critical component in many electronic systems, including data acquisition systems, digital oscilloscopes, and communication equipment, where precise analog signal capture is required.
Working Principle
The circuit operates in two phases controlled by a clock signal. In the 'sample' phase, a switch (typically a MOSFET) closes, connecting the input to a storage capacitor, which charges to the instantaneous input voltage. In the 'hold' phase, the switch opens, isolating the capacitor. An operational amplifier in a voltage-follower configuration then reads and outputs the held voltage from the capacitor with high input impedance, maintaining the stored level for the ADC's conversion cycle.
Common Materials
Silicon (Semiconductor substrate), Metal (Interconnects), Silicon Dioxide (Insulator), Polymer (Passivation)
Technical Parameters

What to specify in your RFQ

  • Input voltage range the circuit can accurately sample and hold. in V

These are the quantities to specify to the manufacturer when sizing or requesting a quote. The manufacturer's own documentation governs the exact figures and applicable standard.

Components / BOM
  • Sampling Switch Part
    A fast electronic switch (e.g., MOSFET) that connects the input signal to the hold capacitor during the sample phase and disconnects it during the hold phase.
    Material: Silicon (MOSFET)
  • Hold Capacitor Part
    A high-quality capacitor that stores the sampled analog voltage charge when the switch is open, maintaining the voltage level for the ADC.
    Material: Silicon (MOS capacitor) or Metal-Insulator-Metal (MIM)
  • Buffer Amplifier
    An operational amplifier configured as a voltage follower (unity gain). It presents a high impedance to the hold capacitor to minimize loading and droop, and provides a low-impedance output of the held voltage to the ADC.
    Material: Silicon (Bipolar or CMOS transistors)

Application & selection

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: N/A (electronic circuit, not fluidic)
other spec: Hold time: 1ms to 10s (typical), Acquisition time: 10ns to 100μs, Droop rate: <1mV/ms
temperature: -40°C to +125°C (operational range for typical ICs)
Media Compatibility
✓ Analog voltage signals (0-10V range) ✓ Low-impedance sensor outputs ✓ Audio frequency signals (DC-20kHz)
Unsuitable: High-frequency RF signals (>100MHz) or environments with strong electromagnetic interference
Sizing Data Required
  • Signal bandwidth/frequency (Hz)
  • Required acquisition time (seconds)
  • Hold time duration (seconds)

Risk, maintenance & compliance

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Hold capacitor leakage or degradation
Cause: Electrolytic capacitor aging, dielectric breakdown, or contamination leading to charge loss and inaccurate voltage retention
Switch transistor failure or signal distortion
Cause: MOSFET/BJT degradation from overvoltage, thermal stress, or switching frequency exceeding specifications causing poor sampling accuracy
Maintenance Indicators
  • Audible high-frequency oscillation or buzzing from the circuit indicating unstable switching or feedback issues
  • Visual output drift or inconsistent readings on monitoring equipment showing poor hold accuracy or sampling errors
Engineering Tips
  • Use high-quality, low-leakage capacitors with appropriate voltage ratings and implement periodic calibration to compensate for component aging
  • Ensure proper heat sinking for switching components, maintain clean power supply filtering, and adhere to specified maximum sampling rates to prevent transistor stress

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
IEC 61000-4-4 Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) CE Marking (EU Directive 2014/35/EU Low Voltage Directive)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Hold Step Settling Time: +/- 0.5% of specified value
  • Aperture Jitter: +/- 1 ps RMS
Quality Inspection
  • Dynamic Performance Test (SINAD/THD analysis)
  • Leakage Current Measurement (hold capacitor discharge rate)
Technical documentation
Request current drawings, revision history, and a signed specification sheet.
Manufacturing capability
Verify equipment lists, process limits, capacity, and representative production evidence.
Inspection readiness
Confirm test methods, calibrated equipment, sampling plans, and traceable reports.
Supplier transparency
Check the legal entity, factory address, ownership, certifications, and direct contacts.

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Manufacturers of Sample-and-Hold Circuit

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of a sample-and-hold circuit?

The primary function is to capture the instantaneous voltage of an analog signal at a specific moment and hold it constant for a period, allowing an ADC to convert it to a digital value without errors caused by signal changes.

How does the sample-and-hold circuit operate?

It operates in two phases: sample and hold. During the sample phase, a switch closes, allowing a capacitor to charge to the input voltage. During the hold phase, the switch opens, isolating the capacitor, and an operational amplifier outputs the held voltage with high input impedance.

What is the significance of the input voltage range specification?

The input voltage range, measured in volts, defines the minimum and maximum analog signal levels the circuit can accurately sample and hold. Exceeding this range may lead to inaccurate sampling or damage. Always verify the range for your specific model.

What materials are typically used in a sample-and-hold circuit?

Common materials include silicon as the semiconductor substrate, metal for interconnects, silicon dioxide as an insulator, and polymer for passivation. These are standard in integrated circuit fabrication.

Data basis: editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records. See the editorial policy.

Related equipment

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) Chip
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Peripheral Interfaces (ADC/DAC)
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ADC Core
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A/D Converter (if needed)
View system integration details

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
This page supports structured research, RFQ preparation, and supplier evaluation. It does not replace buyer-led supplier qualification, standards review, or technical approval.

Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review · Page last updated 6 September 2026

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