Differential Amplifiers
Differential Amplifiers
Module No. 1
DIFFERENTIAL AMPLIFIERS
Objectives
Amplifier Circuit
The amount of difference an amplifier makes may be easily calculated using the gain of
the amplifier, which is the ratio of the output signal to the input signal (also known as the
amplification factor or gain factor). Thus, the gain of an amplifier that doubles the original
signal's size is 2. The gain of audio (sound) amplifiers is commonly represented in decibels; that
is, ten times the output power divided by the input power.
Differential amplifiers, although they fall under the larger category of amplifier circuits,
are distinguished by their exceptional ability to effectively bypass common-mode inputs in order
to enhance the voltage difference between two separate input signals. Because of this special
quality, differential amplifiers are essential in situations where maintaining the authenticity and
isolation of the signal cannot be compromised.
Understanding the basic ideas underlying amplifier circuits is essential before delving
deeply into the study of differential amplifiers. A thorough grasp of these fundamental ideas not
only makes it easier to understand differential amplifiers in their entirety but also lays the
groundwork for exploring their numerous configurations, operational parameters, complex
analysis techniques, and the wide range of real-world uses they suit.
In the next sections of this module, we will explore the complex world of differential
amplifiers, revealing their internal mechanisms, clarifying their settings, examining operational
parameters, performing in-depth analyses, and describing the various applications in which their
power is applied. The goal of this module is to present a comprehensive picture of the essential
function and deep meaning that differential amplifiers have in the complex fabric of electronic
systems.
The basic configuration of a differential amplifier consists of two inputs and one output.
The inputs are connected to the non-inverting and inverting terminals, and the amplified output is
taken from the collector or drain of the active devices, usually transistors. The core principle
behind the operation of a differential amplifier lies in its ability to respond to the voltage
difference between the two inputs, enhancing the signal of interest, and attenuating common-
mode signals. This differential operation provides benefits such as improved signal-to-noise ratio
and increased immunity to external disturbances.
Their primary function lies in signal amplification with common-mode rejection, crucial
for applications where the desired signal is susceptible to interference. This characteristic
enhances the signal-to-noise ratio, making differential amplifiers fundamental in scenarios
demanding high precision and sensitivity.
Differential amplifiers are widely used in many different types of electronic circuits
forming the backbone of versatile analog signal processing. Instrumentation amplifiers utilize
differential amplifiers for accurate measurements in sensor-based systems, while communication
systems benefit from their common-mode rejection capabilities, ensuring reliable signal
processing. In analog-to-digital converters, differential amplifiers condition signals before
conversion, contributing to improved precision. Biomedical applications, particularly in ECG
and EEG amplifiers, leverage differential amplifiers to enhance the detection of biomedical
signals amidst common-mode noise. Additionally, in audio processing, these amplifiers play a
vital role in amplifying audio signals while minimizing unwanted noise. Overall, the flexibility
and common-mode rejection capability of differential amplifiers make them indispensable
components in electronic systems across a diverse range of industries.
The emitter-coupled differential amplifier is one common design. Two transistors in this
configuration, Q1 and Q2, share an emitter resistor. These transistors receive input signals
supplied to their bases, and the output is taken from the collectors. High input impedance
balanced differential operation, and superior common-mode rejection are all provided by this
configuration. For applications where a low input impedance is preferred, the less common
common-base differential amplifier connects the transistor bases directly to the input signals.
In the pursuit of balanced operation, balancing resistors may be added to match the
characteristics of the transistors in the differential pair. This ensures that both sides contribute
equally to the amplification process, promoting symmetry. Additionally, practical applications
often involve converting the differential output to a single-ended one using additional
components like load resistors or active loads. This conversion facilitates seamless interfacing
with single-ended devices or subsequent stages in a circuit.
One notable feature of the common emitter configuration is its ability to provide a large
voltage gain. The transistors operate in the active region, and the voltage across the collector
resistors (connected to the power supply) is amplified by the transistor's beta (current gain). This
inherent gain makes the common emitter configuration suitable for applications where
significant signal amplification is required.
Differential amplifiers are characterized by several crucial parameters that define their
performance characteristics. Understanding these parameters is essential for designing and
analyzing the behavior of a differential amplifier in practical applications. These parameters are:
1. Gain
Gain is a pivotal parameter in the analysis of differential amplifiers, defining their ability
to amplify specific components of input signals. The differential gain or Ad quantifies the
amplification applied to the difference between the two input signals at the inverting and
non-inverting terminals. This parameter is crucial for accentuating the desired signal while
minimizing the impact of common-mode noise. A higher differential gain is often sought for
applications requiring accurate and efficient signal amplification.
The input impedance of a differential amplifier refers to the resistance seen by the input
signals at the amplifier's input terminals. A high input impedance is often desired as it
minimizes the loading effect on the preceding stages and allows for efficient signal transfer.
A high input impedance ensures that the differential amplifier draws minimal current from
the source, preventing signal distortion and maintaining signal integrity. It is particularly
important in applications where the source impedance is relatively high, such as sensors or
transducers.
A high CMRR ensures that the amplifier predominantly amplifies the intended
differential signal while attenuating undesired common-mode components. This is crucial in
scenarios where maintaining signal fidelity in the presence of noise is paramount, such as in
communication systems, biomedical applications, or precision measurement instruments.
CMRR is particularly important when the common-mode signals are significant, and efficient
rejection is required to prevent distortion or degradation of the desired signal.
4. Voltage Offset
Input Offset Voltage arises from imperfections and mismatches in the components of the
differential amplifier, particularly in the transistors of the differential pair. It manifests as an
undesired voltage that is present at the input terminals when no differential signal is applied.
This offset can introduce errors in the amplified signal and impact the overall accuracy of the
amplifier. It is typically measured in millivolts and is an important consideration in
applications where precision is paramount. Voltage offset can lead to output voltages even
when there is no differential input signal. This offset voltage may result in distortion of the
amplified signal and affect the linearity of the amplifier's response. In applications such as
data acquisition systems, instrumentation, or sensor interfacing, where small signals must be
accurately measured, minimizing Vos is crucial to avoid errors in the output.
5. Bandwidth
Bandwidth is the frequency range over which the differential amplifier maintains a
relatively constant and high level of amplification. It is a critical parameter in applications
where the amplifier needs to accurately process signals across a broad spectrum of
frequencies. The bandwidth of a differential amplifier is influenced by various factors,
including the design of the circuit, component values, and the characteristics of the active
devices used. In practical applications, the bandwidth of a differential amplifier is chosen
based on the frequency content of the signals it is expected to process. Applications in
communication systems, audio amplification, or instrumentation may have different
bandwidth requirements, and engineers must tailor the design accordingly. Additionally,
bandwidth considerations become crucial in high-frequency applications, such as radio
frequency systems, where the amplifier needs to operate over a wide range of frequencies.
Analyzing a differential amplifier involves delving into its internal workings, small-
signal models, and understanding its response to both differential and common-mode input
signals. In this analytical part of this module about differential amplifiers we will be focusing on
the usage of Small Signal Model.
The small-signal model is a one method used to understand the behavior of the amplifier
when subjected to small variations around its operating point. This model allows us to analyze
the linear response of the differential amplifier to small changes in input signals and provides
The differential pair of transistors in the amplifier circuit is first represented in the small-
signal model. A small-signal equivalent circuit comprising transconductance (gmgm), early
voltage (VAVA), and output conductance (goutputgoutput) is modeled for each transistor. The
transistor's linear behavior around its operating point is captured by these properties.
Small alterations in the input signals are the main emphasis of the small-signal model.
Small-signal analysis for the differential pair entails introducing small-signal AC voltage
fluctuations (vidvid) to the non-inverting and inverting inputs. The small-signal differential
voltage (vdvd) across the transistor pair is the outcome.
The transistors' transconductance (gmgm) is the ratio of the input voltage change to the
output current change. Gmgm is a crucial parameter in the small-signal model that affects the
differential amplifier's voltage gain. Often, the voltage gain is given as the result of multiplying
the load resistance by gmgm.
The small-signal model facilitates the calculation of input and output impedances. The
input impedance is determined by the impedance looking into the amplifier's input terminals
when AC signals are applied. The output impedance is similarly calculated for the output
terminals. These parameters are crucial for matching the amplifier with external components and
ensuring efficient signal transfer.
Small-signal analysis helps engineers evaluate the stability of the amplifier's biasing.
Load lines on the small-signal transistor characteristic curves aid in determining the operating
point and ensuring that the amplifier remains within the linear region for small variations in input
signals.
The Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) is a pivotal parameter in the realm of
differential amplifiers, serving as a quantitative measure of an amplifier's ability to reject
common-mode signals. This section delves into the intricacies of CMRR, exploring its
definition, calculation, significance, and methods for enhancing this critical aspect of differential
amplifier performance.
CMRR Formula
This formula quantifies the ability of the differential amplifier to favorably amplify the
intended differential signals while attenuating unwanted common-mode signals.
Summary
The module delved into the broader introduction of differential amplifiers, defining them
as electronic devices designed to amplify voltage discrepancies between two input signals. The
discussion underscored their versatile applications across various fields, emphasizing advantages
over single-ended amplifiers. Historical context was provided, illustrating the evolutionary
journey of differential amplifiers from analog computing to their pivotal role in modern
electronics.
The Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) emerged as a central theme in the module,
representing a quantitative measure of a differential amplifier's ability to reject common-mode
signals. The discussion not only defined CMRR but also delved into its calculation, significance,
and practical methods for improvement. This parameter, essential in applications where noise
rejection is critical, was explored in detail, providing engineers with tools to enhance the
performance of differential amplifiers in real-world scenarios.
References
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rejection-ratio-common-differential-mode-signals.html
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Exercises:
3. Which configuration is commonly used in the input stage of operational amplifiers for
differential amplification?
a) Common Emitter
b) Common Base
c) Common Collector
d) None of the above
a) Gain
b) CMRR
c) Bandwidth
d) Voltage Offset
8. How is the Common Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR) calculated for a differential
amplifier?
10. Which configuration is commonly used in the input stage of a differential amplifier for
high input impedance?
a) Common Emitter
b) Common Base
c) Common Collector
d) All of the above
Answer Key:
1. B
2. A
3. B
4. C
5. B
6. B
7. C
8. D
9. C
10. B