61.1. Cascode Current Source

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a cascode configuration?

   Hint

   Think about how stacking transistors affects the circuit.

2. 2.

   What does output impedance refer to?

   Hint

   Consider its importance for amplifier performance.

3. 3.

   What is the purpose of a cascode current source?

   • To reduce input impedance
   • To increase output impedance
   • To decrease frequency response

   Hint

   Focus on the benefits of stacking transistors.

4. 4.

   True or False: Input capacitance is higher in a cascode configuration compared to a standard CE amplifier.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about how Miller capacitance changes with circuit configuration.

5. 5.

   Design a simple cascode current source circuit given that the desired output impedance is at least 5 times higher than a single CE stage.

   Hint

   Consider how the support and characteristics of one transistor transfer to the upper stage.

6. 6.

   Analyze the frequency response of a cascode amplifier and predict how it behaves compared to a regular CE amplifier.

   Hint

   Think about how capacitance scales with gain in both configurations.