74.3. Differential Amplifier and Op-Amp Implementation

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is the primary function of a differential amplifier?

   Hint

   Think about how noise affects signals.

2. 2.

   What does common mode signal refer to?

   Hint

   Consider what happens when both wires pick up the same interference.

3. 3.

   What does a differential amplifier primarily do?

   • Amplifies common signals
   • Amplifies the difference between two signals
   • Creates noise

   Hint

   Think about why we want to focus on differences in signals.

4. 4.

   True or False: Operational amplifiers cannot reject common mode signals.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   What is the advantage of using op-amps?

5. 5.

   Design a circuit using a differential amplifier to reduce noise in a setup with varying ground levels. Explain your process.

   Hint

   Consider how ground potential variance can introduce noise.

6. 6.

   Given a set of operational parameters, calculate the expected output voltage of an op-amp with a given gain and differential input.

   Hint

   Ensure you apply the correct gain to the differential input!