65.2. Cascode Amplifier Overview

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a cascode amplifier?

   Hint

   Think about how stages can allow greater amplification.

2. 2.

   What impact does an active load have on voltage gain?

   Hint

   Consider how resistance affects output.

3. 3.

   What is the main advantage of a cascode amplifier?

   • Higher bandwidth
   • Higher gain
   • Simplicity

   Hint

   Consider what happens to the output voltage in these configurations.

4. 4.

   True or False: The Miller effect decreases input capacitance in high-gain amplifiers.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember how feedback affects capacitance.

5. 5.

   Given a cascode amplifier design with a bias current of 3mA and an input resistance of 10MΩ, calculate the expected voltage gain.

   Hint

   Focus on how transconductance changes with different bias currents.

6. 6.

   Discuss how the choice between BJTs and MOSFETs affects the bandwidth in cascode amplifiers.

   Hint

   Think about the differences in input/output capacitance and gain behavior within frequencies.