63.5.1. Cascode Amplifier Circuit Description

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a cascode amplifier?

   Hint

   Think about what stacking transistors accomplishes.

2. 2.

   Name the two types of transistors used in cascode amplifiers?

   Hint

   Recall the types of transistors discussed.

3. 3.

   What is the main advantage of a cascode amplifier?

   • Lower noise
   • Higher power consumption
   • Higher distortion

   Hint

   Think about what features are improved when using two transistors.

4. 4.

   True or False: Both BJT and MOSFET can be used in a cascode configuration.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Have we discussed only one type of transistor for cascode?

5. 5.

   Design a cascode amplifier using specific BJTs with given parameters. Calculate the expected voltage gain and input capacitance based on provided values.

   Hint

   Start by writing down all known values and use formulas from our earlier examples to guide your calculations.

6. 6.

   Compare the performance of a cascode amplifier to a common emitter amplifier with equivalent transistors. What aspects should be evaluated?

   Hint

   Refer to key performance metrics discussed in class and apply the values during your comparison.