66.2. Overview

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is an active load in amplifier circuits?

   Hint

   Think of how a transistor can dynamically adjust compared to a resistor.

2. 2.

   Define voltage gain.

   Hint

   This is often expressed logarithmically.

3. 3.

   What is a defining feature of an active load?

   • Uses resistors exclusively
   • Enhances voltage gain
   • Reduces overall power

   Hint

   Think about the role of components in boosting performance.

4. 4.

   True or False: The use of active loads in amplifiers helps increase power dissipation.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on how active components function compared to passive ones.

5. 5.

   Given an amplifier's passive load configuration, calculate the expected voltage gain and then redesign it with an active load approach to improve gain by at least 50%. Show the calculations.

   Hint

   Use the formula for voltage gain but consider the variable nature of the active load.

6. 6.

   Discuss in detail how changing one parameter in a common emitter amplifier configuration can vastly alter its performance. Provide examples.

   Hint

   Think about the operational characteristics and their relationships.