23.4. Introduction to Current Amplifiers

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a current amplifier?

   Hint

   Think about the function of the amplifier in your audio systems.

2. 2.

   What role does a BJT play in current amplifiers?

   Hint

   Consider which electronics components are essential in amplifying signals.

3. 3.

   What does a current amplifier primarily do?

   • Amplifies voltage signals
   • Amplifies current signals
   • Both

   Hint

   Recall the functionality of current versus voltage amplifiers.

4. 4.

   True or False: An AC coupling capacitor allows DC signals to pass.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about how coupling capacitors are used in circuits.

5. 5.

   You have a BJT current amplifier with an unloaded current gain of 10. If the input current is 2 mA, what is the output current?

   Hint

   Simply multiply the input by the gain.

6. 6.

   Explain how to account for loading effects when connecting a load resistor to the output of a current amplifier.

   Hint

   Think back to the formulas we derived for loading effects.