While this series of chips have certainly simplified output design, I find their near universal use troubling, especially where long lines are used.
I've had no end of trouble with equipment using these chips in broadcast equipment in an RF environment especially during lightening events. The very low output impedance of these chips, with no output protection (either on chip, or in the equipment using it) do not like any kind of voltage pulse on it's output.
Although the facilty I'm working at now is very well grounded, when a nearby lightening strike hits (direct hits are handled through grounds; nothing gets destroyed), the voltage pulse in long lines between some studios and the rack rooms cause these guys to give up the ghost. To further complicate matters, only about 1 in 10 manufacturers use the dip version of this chip, allowing easy replacement; most are surface mount. This means I have to keep dozens of replacement assemblies (not just chips! - we're talking lotsa $$) in inventory and cringe everytime the wind whips up in summer.
They just don't build 'em like they used to..... :evil:
ok, rant off.