AllRounder.ai
Chapters in this course

Enrol to start learning

Reading is open to everyone. Enrolling is free, and it is what unlocks the audio lessons, practice tests and progress tracking.

Enrol free

19.2. Numerical Example

Interactive Audio Lesson

Session 1: Small Signal Equivalent Circuit

Unlock the classroom podcast

The transcript is free to read. A free account plays the conversation back.

Sarah
SarahInstructor

Today, we’re diving into small signal equivalent circuits for BJTs. This model allows us to linearize the behavior of the transistor around a given operating point. Can anyone tell me why linear models are useful?

Noah
Noah

I think they simplify complex calculations!

Sarah
SarahInstructor

Exactly, and by linearizing, we can apply Ohm’s Law and linear circuit analysis. This leads us to important parameters such as transconductance. Does anyone remember what transconductance is?

Isabella
Isabella

It’s the change in collector current divided by the change in base-emitter voltage, right?

Sarah
SarahInstructor

Right! We denote it as g_m. It tells us how effectively a BJT can convert a small input voltage change into a larger output current change. Keep this in mind as we proceed.

Session 2: Parameters of BJT Circuits

Unlock the classroom podcast

The transcript is free to read. A free account plays the conversation back.

Robert
RobertInstructor

Let’s now look at the base to emitter resistance, often noted as r_. This value reflects the dynamic behavior of the BJT as signals vary. Can someone explain how to calculate this resistance?

Akash
Akash

Isn't it related to the small-signal base current and voltage?

Robert
RobertInstructor

Correct! To calculate r_, we take the reciprocal of the base current. Remember, it’s all interconnected with transconductance too. What about output conductance?

Ananya
Ananya

That handles the slope of the I-V characteristics when varying the collector-emitter voltage!

Robert
RobertInstructor

Exactly! We know it as g_0, which helps us understand how variations in V_ce can affect I_c. Fantastic!

Session 3: Numerical Example Application

Unlock the classroom podcast

The transcript is free to read. A free account plays the conversation back.

Sarah
SarahInstructor

Now let's work through a numerical example together. Suppose we have a supply voltage of 10V and a collector current of 2mA. How can we find the small signal parameters?

Noah
Noah

We can start by calculating the base current using the given beta!

Sarah
SarahInstructor

Correct! If we know β (beta) is 200, what would be the base current, and how does it affect g_m?

Isabella
Isabella

The base current would be 10µA, which helps calculate g_m as well!

Sarah
SarahInstructor

Well done! Finally, can anyone summarize how altering voltage can impact our output conductance, g_0?

Akash
Akash

When collector voltage increases, output conductance informs us about the change in current through the transistor!