Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

Operational Amplifiers
Syllabus: Introduction to Operational Amplifiers: Ideal OPAMP, Inverting and Non Inverting
OPAMP circuits, OPAMP applications: voltage follower, addition, subtraction, integration,
differentiation; Numerical examples as applicable. (6 Hours)

Introduction to Operational Amplifiers

An operational amplifier, or op-amp, is the most important and versatile analog IC. It
is a direct coupled multistage voltage amplifier with an extremely high gain. With the help
of op-amp, the circuit design becomes very simple. The variety of useful circuits can be built
without the necessity of knowing about the complex internal circuitry.
Fig. 1 shows circuit symbol and circuit model of an Op-Amp.

Fig. 1 Circuit symbol and model of an Op-Amp

An op-amp has two input terminals – an inverting input 𝑉1 and a non-inverting input
𝑉2, and an output 𝑉𝑜 . It requires two power supplies: +𝑉𝐶𝐶 and −𝑉𝐸𝐸 . It has a very high input
impedance 𝑅𝑖𝑛 , a very low output impedance 𝑅𝑜 and a very high gain 𝐴.

Block Diagram of an Op-Amp

The block diagram of an op-amp is as shown in Fig. 2.

Fig. 2 Block diagram of an op-amp

• The differential amplifier is two BJT or MOSFET amplifiers connected in opposition
so as to amplify the difference of two input signals. It has a very high input impedance.
• The high-gain amplifier is another differential amplifier which provides additional
voltage gain. Practically, it is not a single amplifier, but a chain of cascaded amplifiers
called multistage amplifiers.
• The buffer is an emitter follower used for matching the load. If the output is nonzero
for zero input, the level shifter makes it zero.

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Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

• Driver is a power amplifier which increases the output voltage swing and keeps the
voltage swing symmetrical with respect to ground.

Advantages of Op-Amps
• Low cost
• Small size
• Versatility
• Flexibility
• Dependability

Applications of Op-Amps
• Op-amps have become an integral part of almost every electronic circuit which uses
linear integrated circuits.
• Op-amps are used in analog signal processing and analog filtering.
• They are used to perform mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction,
multiplication, integration, differentiation, etc.
• They are used in the fields of process control, communications, computers, power and
signal sources, displays and measuring systems.
• They are used in linear applications like voltage follower, differential amplifier,
inverting amplifier, non-inverting amplifier, etc. and non-linear applications like
precision rectifiers, comparators, clampers, Schmitt trigger circuit, etc.

Op-Amp IC 741
IC 741is the most popular IC version of op-amp. It is an 8-pin IC as shown in Fig. 3.

Fig. 3 Pin diagram of IC 741

• Pin 2 is the inverting input terminal and Pin 3 is the non-inverting input terminal
• Pin 6 is the output terminal
• Pin 4 is for −𝑉𝐸𝐸 (𝑉 − ) supply and pin 7 is for +𝑉𝐶𝐶 (𝑉 + ) supply
• Pins 1 and 5 are offset null pins. These are used to nullify offset voltage
• Pin 8 is a dummy pin and no connection is made to this pin

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Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

Differential Amplifier
An op-amp is basically a differential amplifier or difference amplifier which amplifies
the difference between the two input signals. The output voltage is proportional to the
difference between two input voltages. We can write this as
𝑉𝑜 ∝ (𝑉2 − 𝑉1 )
Differential Gain
An op-amp amplifies the difference between the two input signals 𝑽𝒅 = 𝑽𝟐 − 𝑽𝟏 . The
output voltage is given by
𝑽𝒐 = 𝑨𝒅 𝑽𝒅 = 𝑨𝒅 (𝑽𝟐 − 𝑽𝟏 )
𝑽
where 𝐴𝑑 is the differential gain given by 𝑨𝒅 = 𝑽𝒐
𝒅

𝑽
Generally 𝐴𝑑 is expressed in decibel (dB) as 𝑨𝒅 = 𝟐𝟎 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟏𝟎 (𝑽𝒐 ) 𝐝𝐁.
𝒅

The differential gain is also called open loop voltage gain.

Common Mode Gain

If we apply two input voltages which are equal i.e. if 𝑉1 = 𝑉2, then ideally the output
must be zero. But practically, the output voltage not only depends on the difference voltage
but also depends on the average common level of the two inputs. Such a common level is
𝑽𝟏 +𝑽𝟐
called common mode signal 𝑽𝒄 = .
𝟐

The differential amplifier produces the output voltage proportional to common mode
signal and the output voltage is given as
𝑽𝒐 = 𝑨𝒄 𝑽𝒄
𝑽
where 𝐴𝑐 is the common mode gain given by 𝑨𝒄 = 𝑽𝒐
𝒄

The total output of a differential amplifier is then given by

𝑽𝟏 + 𝑽𝟐
𝑽𝒐 = 𝑨𝒅 𝑽𝒅 + 𝑨𝒄 𝑽𝒄 = 𝑨𝒅 (𝑽𝟐 − 𝑽𝟏 ) + 𝑨𝒄 ( )
𝟐
Common Mode Rejection Ratio
Common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) is the ability of an op-amp to reject a common
mode signal. It is defined as the ratio of differential gain 𝑨𝒅 to common mode gain 𝑨𝒄 .
𝑨𝒅
𝑪𝑴𝑹𝑹 =
𝑨𝒄
CMRR is a large value and is often expressed in decibel as
𝑨𝒅
𝑪𝑴𝑹𝑹 = 𝟐𝟎 𝐥𝐨𝐠 𝟏𝟎 ( ) 𝐝𝐁
𝑨𝒄

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Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

Slew Rate
Slew rate is defined as the maximum rate of change of output voltage with time.
𝒅𝑽𝒐
𝑺𝒍𝒆𝒘 𝒓𝒂𝒕𝒆 = 𝑺 = |
𝒅𝒕 𝒎𝒂𝒙

Ideal Op-Amp
An ideal op-amp has the following characteristics:
1. Infinite voltage gain (𝑨𝑶𝑳 = ∞): The voltage gain, also known as differential open
loop gain is infinite in an ideal op-amp.
2. Infinite input impedance (𝑹𝒊𝒏 = ∞): The input impedance is infinite in an ideal op-
amp. This means that no current can flow into an ideal op-amp.
3. Zero output impedance (𝑹𝒐 = 𝟎): The output impedance is zero in an ideal op-amp.
This means that the output voltage remains the same, irrespective of the value of the
load connected.
4. Zero offset voltage (𝑽𝒊𝒐𝒔 = 𝟎): The presence of the small output voltage even when
𝑉1 = 𝑉2 = 0 is called offset voltage. In an ideal op-amp, offset voltage is zero. This
means the output is zero if the input is zero.
5. Infinite bandwidth (𝑩𝑾 = ∞): The range of frequencies over which the amplifier
performance is satisfactory is called its bandwidth. The bandwidth of an ideal op-amp
is infinite.
6. Infinite CMRR (𝑪𝑴𝑹𝑹 = ∞): The ratio of differential gain to common mode gain is
called common mode rejection ratio (CMRR). In an ideal op-amp, CMRR is infinite.
This means that the common mode gain is zero in an ideal op-amp.
7. Infinite slew rate (𝑺 = ∞): Slew rate is the maximum rate of change of output voltage
with time. In an ideal op-amp, slew rate is infinite. This means that the changes in the
output voltage occur simultaneously with the changes in the input voltage.
8. No effect of temperature: The characteristics of an ideal op-amp do not change with
the changes in temperature.
9. Zero PSRR (𝑷𝑺𝑹𝑹 = 𝟎): Power supply rejection ratio (PSRR) is defined as the ratio of
the change in input offset voltage due to the change in supply voltage producing it,
keeping other power supply voltage constant. In an ideal op-amp, PSRR is zero.

Operation of an Op-Amp
An op-amp is basically differential amplifier which amplifies the difference between
the two input signals.
Fig. 4 shows the basic operation of an op-amp as inverting and non-inverting
amplifiers.

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Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

Fig. 4 Basic operation of an op-amp

When a voltage 𝑉1 is applied to the inverting input with the non-inverting input
grounded (𝑉2 = 0), the output voltage is
𝑉𝑜 = 𝐴(𝑉2 − 𝑉1 ) = 𝐴(0 − 𝑉1 ) = −𝐴𝑉1
This indicates that the output voltage is amplified with a gain 𝐴 and inverted (phase
or polarity reversed) with respect to the input voltage as shown in Fig. 4 (a).
On the other hand, when a voltage 𝑉2 is applied to the non-inverting input with the
inverting input grounded (𝑉1 = 0), the output voltage is
𝑉𝑜 = 𝐴(𝑉2 − 𝑉1 ) = 𝐴(𝑉2 − 0) = 𝐴𝑉2
This indicates that the output voltage is amplified with a gain 𝐴 and is in the same
phase or polarity as the input voltage as shown in Fig. 4 (b).

Assumptions
While analyzing the operation of op-amp circuits, two assumptions are made:
1. Zero Input Current: Since the input resistance of an ideal op-amp is infinite, no
current flows into an op-amp. This makes the input current zero.
2. Virtual Ground: An ideal op-amp has an infinite gain. We know that output voltage
𝑉𝑜
𝑉𝑜 = 𝐴(𝑉2 − 𝑉1 ). That makes (𝑉2 − 𝑉1 ) = . If gain 𝐴 is infinite, that means the
𝐴
difference 𝑉2 − 𝑉1 = 0, or 𝑉1 = 𝑉2 .
This means that the input terminals of an op-amp are always at the same
potential. Thus if one terminal is grounded, the other one can be treated to be
virtually grounded.

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Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

Basic Op-Amp Circuits

Inverting Amplifier
An amplifier which produces a phase shift of 180° between input and output is called
inverting amplifier. Fig. 5 shows an inverting amplifier using op-amp.

𝑅𝑓
𝐼𝑓
𝑅1

𝐼1

Fig. 5 Inverting amplifier

From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the circuit,
𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 0
𝐼1 = = (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 0)
𝑅1 𝑅1
𝑽𝒊𝒏
𝑰𝟏 =
𝑹𝟏
and
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜 0 − 𝑉𝑜
𝐼𝑓 = =
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑽𝒐
𝑰𝒇 = −
𝑹𝒇
Since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼1 passes through 𝑅𝑓 as 𝐼𝑓 . That is,
𝐼1 = 𝐼𝑓
𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑉𝑜
=−
𝑅1 𝑅𝑓
𝑹𝒇
𝑽𝒐 = − ( ) 𝑽𝒊𝒏
𝑹𝟏
𝑅
Here 𝑅𝑓 is called the gain of the amplifier and negative sign indicates that the output
1
is inverted.
Fig. 6 shows the input and output waveforms of an inverting amplifier.

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Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

Fig. 6 Waveforms of inverting amplifier

Non-Inverting Amplifier
An amplifier which amplifies the input without producing any phase shift between
input and output is called non-inverting amplifier. Fig. 7 shows a non-inverting amplifier
using op-amp.

𝑅𝑓
𝐼𝑓
𝑅1

𝐼1

Fig. 7 Non-inverting amplifier

From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 𝑉𝑖𝑛 .
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 𝑉𝑖𝑛 .
From the circuit,
𝑉𝐴 − 0 𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 0
𝐼1 = = (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝑖𝑛 )
𝑅1 𝑅1
𝑽𝒊𝒏
𝑰𝟏 =
𝑹𝟏
and
𝑉𝑜 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝑜 − 𝑉𝑖𝑛
𝐼𝑓 = =
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑽𝒐 − 𝑽𝒊𝒏
𝑰𝒇 =
𝑹𝒇
Since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼𝑓 passes through 𝑅1 as 𝐼1 . That is,
𝐼1 = 𝐼𝑓

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Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics
𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑉𝑜 − 𝑉𝑖𝑛
=
𝑅1 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑉𝑜 𝑉𝑖𝑛
= −
𝑅1 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑉𝑖𝑛
= +
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 1 1
= ( + ) 𝑉𝑖𝑛
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅𝑓
𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑅𝑓 ( ) 𝑉𝑖𝑛
𝑅1 𝑅𝑓
𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = ( ) 𝑉𝑖𝑛
𝑅1
𝑹𝒇
𝑽𝒐 = (𝟏 + )𝑽
𝑹𝟏 𝒊𝒏
𝑅
Here (1 + 𝑅𝑓 ) is called the gain of the amplifier. Fig. 8 shows the input and output
1
waveforms of an inverting amplifier.

Fig. 8 Waveforms of non-inverting amplifier

Op-Amp Applications
Voltage Follower
A circuit in which the output voltage follows the input voltage is called voltage
follower. Fig. 9 shows a voltage follower circuit using an op-amp.

Fig. 9 Voltage follower

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Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 𝑉𝑖𝑛 .

From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 𝑉𝑖𝑛 .
The node 𝐴 is directly connected to the output. Hence
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉𝐴
Now since 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝑖𝑛 ,
𝑽𝒐 = 𝑽𝒊𝒏
In a voltage follower gain is unity (𝐴 = 1). A voltage follower is also called source
follower, unity gain amplifier, buffer amplifier or isolation amplifier. Fig. 10 shows the input
and output waveforms of a voltage follower.

Fig. 10 Waveforms of voltage follower

Advantages of Voltage Follower

1. Very large input resistance
2. Very low output resistance
3. Large bandwidth
4. The output follows the input exactly without any phase shift

Summing Amplifier (Adder)

Inverting Summing Amplifier
In this circuit, the input signals to be added are applied to the inverting input terminal.

𝑅1
𝑅𝑓
𝐼1 𝐼𝑓

𝑅2

𝐼2

Fig. 11 Inverting summing amplifier (adder) with two inputs

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Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

An adder with two inputs is shown in Fig. 11.

From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the circuit,
𝑉1 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉1 − 0 (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 0)
𝐼1 = =
𝑅1 𝑅1
𝑽𝟏
𝑰𝟏 =
𝑹𝟏
Similarly,
𝑉2 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉2 − 0
𝐼2 = =
𝑅2 𝑅2
𝑽𝟐
𝑰𝟐 =
𝑹𝟐
and
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜 0 − 𝑉𝑜
𝐼𝑓 = =
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑽𝒐
𝑰𝒇 = −
𝑹𝒇
Now since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼1 and 𝐼2 together pass through 𝑅𝑓 as 𝐼𝑓 . That
is,
𝐼𝑓 = 𝐼1 + 𝐼2
𝑉𝑜 𝑉1 𝑉2
− = +
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅2
𝑉1 𝑉2
𝑉𝑜 = −𝑅𝑓 ( + )
𝑅1 𝑅2
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = − ( 𝑉1 + 𝑉2 )
𝑅1 𝑅2
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅,
𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = − (𝑉 + 𝑉2 )
𝑅 1
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅𝑓 ,
𝑉𝑜 = −(𝑉1 + 𝑉2 )

This shows that the output is the sum of the input signals. The negative sign indicates
that the phase is inverted.

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Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

Three-Input Adder (Inverting Summing Amplifier)

An adder with three inputs is shown in Fig. 12.

𝑅1
𝑉1 𝑅𝑓
𝑅2 𝐼1 𝐼𝑓
𝑉2
𝑅3 𝐼2
𝑉3
𝐼3

Fig. 12 Inverting summing amplifier (adder) with three inputs

From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the circuit,
𝑉1 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉1 − 0 (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 0)
𝐼1 = =
𝑅1 𝑅1
𝑽𝟏
𝑰𝟏 =
𝑹𝟏
Similarly,
𝑉2 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉2 − 0
𝐼2 = =
𝑅2 𝑅2
𝑽𝟐
𝑰𝟐 =
𝑹𝟐
Also
𝑉3 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉3 − 0
𝐼3 = =
𝑅3 𝑅3
𝑽𝟑
𝑰𝟑 =
𝑹𝟑
and
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜 0 − 𝑉𝑜
𝐼𝑓 = =
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑽𝒐
𝑰𝒇 = −
𝑹𝒇
Now since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼1 , 𝐼2 and 𝐼3 together pass through 𝑅𝑓 as 𝐼𝑓 .
That is,
𝐼𝑓 = 𝐼1 + 𝐼2 + 𝐼3

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Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics
𝑉𝑜 𝑉1 𝑉2 𝑉3
− = + +
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅2 𝑅3
𝑉1 𝑉2 𝑉3
𝑉𝑜 = −𝑅𝑓 ( + + )
𝑅1 𝑅2 𝑅3
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = − ( 𝑉1 + 𝑉2 + 𝑉3 )
𝑅1 𝑅2 𝑅3
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅3 = 𝑅,
𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = − (𝑉 + 𝑉2 + 𝑉3 )
𝑅 1
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅3 = 𝑅𝑓 ,
𝑉𝑜 = −(𝑉1 + 𝑉2 + 𝑉3 )
This shows that the output is the sum of the input signals. The negative sign indicates
that the phase is inverted.

Non-Inverting Summing Amplifier

In this circuit, the input signals to be added are applied to the non-inverting input
terminal. Fig. 13 shows a non-inverting summing amplifier with two inputs.
𝑅𝑓

𝐼𝑓
𝑅
𝐼
𝑅1
𝐼1

𝑅2 𝐼2

Fig. 13 Non-inverting summing amplifier

Let the potential at node B be 𝑉𝐵 .
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 .
From the circuit,
𝑉1 − 𝑉𝐵
𝐼1 =
𝑅1
and
𝑉2 − 𝑉𝐵
𝐼2 =
𝑅2
Now since op-amp input current is zero,
𝐼1 + 𝐼2 = 0
𝑉1 − 𝑉𝐵 𝑉2 − 𝑉𝐵
∴ + =0
𝑅1 𝑅2

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Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers
𝑉1 𝑉𝐵 𝑉2 𝑉𝐵
− + − =0
𝑅1 𝑅1 𝑅2 𝑅2
𝑉1 𝑉2 𝑉𝐵 𝑉𝐵
+ = +
𝑅1 𝑅2 𝑅1 𝑅2
𝑅2 𝑉1 + 𝑅1 𝑉2 𝑅1 + 𝑅2
= 𝑉𝐵 ( )
𝑅1 𝑅2 𝑅1 𝑅2
𝑅2 𝑉1 + 𝑅1 𝑉2 (1)
𝑉𝐵 =
𝑅1 + 𝑅2
At node 𝐴,
𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝐵
𝐼= = (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 )
𝑅 𝑅
and
𝑉𝑜 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝑜 − 𝑉𝐵
𝐼𝑓 = =
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
Now since op-amp input current is zero,
𝐼 = 𝐼𝑓
𝑉𝐵 𝑉𝑜 − 𝑉𝐵
=
𝑅 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝐵 𝑉𝑜 𝑉𝐵
= −
𝑅 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 𝑉𝐵 𝑉𝐵
= +
𝑅𝑓 𝑅 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 𝑅 + 𝑅𝑓
= 𝑉𝐵 ( )
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑅𝑓
𝑅 + 𝑅𝑓 (2)
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉𝐵 ( )
𝑅
Substituting Eqn. (1) in (2),
𝑅2 𝑉1 + 𝑅1 𝑉2 𝑅 + 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = ( )( )
𝑅1 + 𝑅2 𝑅
𝑅2 (𝑅 + 𝑅𝑓 ) 𝑅1 (𝑅 + 𝑅𝑓 )
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉1 + 𝑉
𝑅(𝑅1 + 𝑅2 ) 𝑅(𝑅1 + 𝑅2 ) 2
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅,
𝑅 + 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = (𝑉1 + 𝑉2 )
2𝑅
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅 = 𝑅𝑓 ,
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉1 + 𝑉2
This shows that the output is the sum of the input signals.

Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal 13

Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

Subtractor
In a subtractor circuit, the output is the difference between the two inputs. Fig. 14
shows a subtractor circuit using an op-amp.

𝑅1 𝐼𝑓 𝑅𝑓

𝐼1
𝑅2

𝐼2
𝑅𝑓
𝐼2

Fig. 14 Subtractor
From the circuit, the potential at node B,
𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝐵 = ( )𝑉
𝑅2 + 𝑅𝑓 2
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A,
𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = ( )𝑉 (3)
𝑅2 + 𝑅𝑓 2
From the circuit,
𝑉1 − 𝑉𝐴
𝐼1 =
𝑅1
and
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜
𝐼𝑓 =
𝑅𝑓
Since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼1 passes through 𝑅𝑓 as 𝐼𝑓 . That is,
𝐼1 = 𝐼𝑓
𝑉1 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜
=
𝑅1 𝑅𝑓
𝑉1 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝑜
− = −
𝑅1 𝑅1 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝐴 𝑉1
= + −
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅𝑓 𝑅1
𝑉𝑜 1 1 𝑉1
= 𝑉𝐴 ( + ) −
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅𝑓 𝑅1

14 Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal

Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

𝑉𝑜 𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓 𝑉1
= 𝑉𝐴 ( )−
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅𝑓 𝑅1
𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉𝐴 𝑅𝑓 ( ) − 𝑉1
𝑅1 𝑅𝑓 𝑅1
𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓 (4)
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉𝐴 ( ) − 𝑉1
𝑅1 𝑅1
Substituting Eqn. (3) in (4),
𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = ( ) 𝑉2 ( ) − 𝑉1
𝑅2 + 𝑅𝑓 𝑅1 𝑅1

𝑅𝑓 (𝑅1 + 𝑅𝑓 ) 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉2 − 𝑉
𝑅1 (𝑅2 + 𝑅𝑓 ) 𝑅1 1

If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 ,
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉2 − 𝑉1
𝑅2 𝑅1

If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅,
𝑅𝑓
𝑉𝑜 = (𝑉 − 𝑉1 )
𝑅 2
If 𝑅1 = 𝑅2 = 𝑅 = 𝑅𝑓 ,
𝑉𝑜 = 𝑉2 − 𝑉1
This shows that the output is the difference between the two input signals.

Integrator
In an integrator circuit, the output is the integration of the input voltage. Fig. 15 shows
an integrator circuit using an op-amp.

𝑅1 𝐼𝑓 𝐶𝑓

𝐼1

Fig. 15 Integrator
From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the circuit,

Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal 15

Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics
𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 𝑉𝐴 𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 0
𝐼1 = = (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 0)
𝑅1 𝑅1
𝑽𝒊𝒏
𝑰𝟏 =
𝑹𝟏
and
𝑑(𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜 ) 𝑑(0 − 𝑉𝑜 )
𝐼𝑓 = 𝐶𝑓 = 𝐶𝑓
𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡
𝒅𝑽𝒐
𝑰𝒇 = −𝑪𝒇
𝒅𝒕
Since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼1 passes through 𝑅𝑓 as 𝐼𝑓 . That is,
𝐼1 = 𝐼𝑓
𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑉𝑜
= −𝐶𝑓
𝑅1 𝑑𝑡
𝑑𝑉𝑜 𝑉𝑖𝑛
=−
𝑑𝑡 𝑅1 𝐶𝑓
Integrating both sides with respect to t,
𝑑𝑉𝑜 1
∫ 𝑑𝑡 = − ∫ 𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑡
𝑑𝑡 𝑅1 𝐶𝑓
1
𝑉𝑜 = − ∫ 𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑑𝑡
𝑅1 𝐶𝑓
1
This shows that the output is the integration of the input voltage. The term (− 𝑅 )
1 𝐶𝑓

indicates the gain of the amplifier.

Differentiator
In a differentiator circuit, the output is the differentiation of the input voltage. Fig. 16
shows a differentiator circuit using an op-amp.

𝐶1 𝐼𝑓 𝑅𝑓

𝐼1

Fig. 16 Differentiator
From the circuit, the potential at node B, 𝑉𝐵 = 0.
From the concept of virtual ground, the two input terminals are the same potential.
Therefore, the potential at node A, 𝑉𝐴 = 𝑉𝐵 = 0.

16 Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal

Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

From the circuit,

𝑑(𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 𝑉𝐴 ) 𝑑(𝑉𝑖𝑛 − 0)
𝐼1 = 𝐶1 = 𝐶1 (∵ 𝑉𝐴 = 0)
𝑑𝑡 𝑑𝑡
𝒅𝑽𝒊𝒏
𝑰 𝟏 = 𝑪𝟏
𝒅𝒕
and
𝑉𝐴 − 𝑉𝑜 0 − 𝑉𝑜
𝐼𝑓 = =
𝑅𝑓 𝑅𝑓
𝑽𝒐
𝑰𝒇 = −
𝑹𝒇

Since op-amp input current is zero, 𝐼1 passes through 𝑅𝑓 as 𝐼𝑓 . That is,

𝐼1 = 𝐼𝑓
𝑑𝑉𝑖𝑛 𝑉𝑜
𝐶1 =−
𝑑𝑡 𝑅𝑓
𝑑𝑉𝑖𝑛
𝑉𝑜 = −𝑅𝑓 𝐶1
𝑑𝑡
This shows that the output is the differentiation of the input voltage. The term (−𝑅𝑓 𝐶1 )
indicates the gain of the amplifier.

Questions
1. What is an Op-Amp? Mention the applications of Op-Amp.
(Dec ’17, Dec ’16, Dec ’15, MQP ’15, MQP ’14)
2. Explain the block diagram of an operational amplifier. (Jun ’16)
3. Define the following parameters of an Op-Amp: (i) Differential gain (ii) Common
mode gain (iii) CMRR (iv) PSRR (v) Slew rate.
(Dec ’17 – 5M, Jun ’16 – 5M, Dec ’15 – 6M)
4. Explain the characteristics of an ideal Op-amp.
(Dec ’17 – 6M, Jun ’17 – 4M, Dec ’16 – 6M, Jun ’16 – 7M, Dec ’15 – 4M, Jun ’15 – 6M,
Dec ’14 – 5M, MQP ’15, MQP ’14 – 6M)
5. Write a short note on virtual ground concept of an Op-Amp. (Dec ’17 – 6M)
6. Explain the operation of an Op-Amp as an (i) Inverting amplifier (ii) Non inverting
amplifier. Derive an expression for the output voltage.
(Dec ’17 – 4M, Jun ’17 – 6M, Dec ’16 – 6M, Jun ’16 – 5M)
7. Draw the circuit of inverting Op-Amp. Derive the expression for the voltage gain.
(Dec ’17 – 5M)
8. With neat circuit and necessary equations, explain the voltage follower circuit using
operational amplifier. Mention its important properties.
(Dec ’17, Jun ’17 – 6M, Dec ’16 – 6M, Dec ’15 – 4M, Jun ’15 – 5M, MQP ’15 – 6M, MQP
’14)

Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal 17

Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

9. Explain how an Op-Amp can be used as (i) Inverting summer (ii) Non inverting
summer. (Dec ’17, Jun ’17, MQP ’14)
10. Derive the expression for the output of a three input summing amplifier.
(Dec ’17 – 5M, Dec ’15 – 5M, MQP ’15 – 5M)
11. Show with a circuit diagram, how an Op-Amp can be used as a subtractor.
(Dec ’16 – 8M)
12. With a neat circuit diagram, show how an Op-Amp can be used as an integrator.
Derive the expression for output voltage.
(Dec ’17 – 4M, Jun ’17 – 4M, Dec ’16, Jun ’16 – 6M, Dec ’15 – 6M, MQP ’14)
13. With a neat circuit diagram, show how an Op-Amp can be used as a differentiator.
Derive the expression for output voltage. (Dec ’17, Dec ’16, Dec ’14 – 5M)
14. An Op-Amp has an open loop voltage gain of 104 and a common mode voltage gain
of 0.1. Express the CMRR in dB. (Jun ’16 – 8M)
15. Find the gain of a non-inverting amplifier if R f = 10 kΩ and R1 = 1 kΩ. (Dec ’15 – 6M)
16. Design an inverting and non inverting operational amplifier to have a gain of 15.
(Dec ’17 – 5M)
17. Calculate the output voltage of a three input inverting summing amplifier, given R1 =
200 kΩ, R 2 = 250 kΩ, R 3 = 500 kΩ, R f = 1 MΩ, V1 = −2V, V2 = −1V and V3 = +3V.
(Jun ’16 – 4M)
18. Design an adder using Op-Amp to give the output voltage Vo = −[2V1 + 3V2 + 5V3 ].
(Dec ’17 – 6M)
19. Design an Op-Amp circuit that will produce an output equal to −[4V1 + V2 + 0.1V3 ].
(Dec ’17 – 6M)
20. Design an inverting summing circuit with feedback R f = 100 kΩ using an Op-Amp to
generate the output Vo = −[3V1 + 4V2 + 5V3 ]. (Dec ’16 – 6M)
21. Design an adder circuit using Op-Amp to obtain an output voltage of
Vo = −[0.1V1 + 0.5V2 + 2V3 ], where V1 , V2 and V3 are input voltages. Draw the circuit
diagram. (Jun ’15 – 8M)
22. Find the output of the following Op-Amp circuit.
(Jun ’17 – 5M, Dec ’16 – 5M, MQP ’14 – 5M)

18 Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal

Basic Electronics Operational Amplifiers

23. Find the output of the following Op-Amp circuit. (Jun ’17 – 5M)

24. Determine Vo for the circuit shown below. (Jun ’16 – 5M)

25. For the circuit shown in the figure, calculate the output voltage. (Dec ’15 – 4M)

26. Write expression for output voltage at points A, B, C, D and E as shown in figure.
(Dec ’14 – 10M)

Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal 19

Operational Amplifiers Basic Electronics

27. Find the output of the following Op-Amp Circuit (MQP ’14 – 5M)

References
1. D.P. Kothari, I. J. Nagrath, “Basic Electronics”, McGraw Hill Education (India) Private
Limited, 2014.
2. David A. Bell, “Operational Amplifiers and Linear IC’s”, 2nd edition, PHI/Pearson,
2004.
3. David A. Bell, “Electronic Devices and Circuits”, Oxford University Press, 5th Edition,
2008.

20 Shrishail Bhat, Dept. of ECE, AITM Bhatkal