90.4.2 - Loop Gain
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Introduction to Feedback Systems
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Today, we are diving into feedback systems in analog circuits, which play a crucial role in determining the performance and stability of amplifiers.
What exactly is a feedback system?
A feedback system involves taking a portion of the output signal and feeding it back to the input, which can either enhance or reduce the system's gain.
So, what determines if the feedback is positive or negative?
Great question! If the feedback opposes the input signal, it is negative feedback. If it supports the input, it's positive feedback. A handy way to remember this is 'N for Negative, N for Nullifying' and 'P for Positive, P for Promoting'!
Could you give us an example of a negative feedback system?
Sure! An operational amplifier used in a voltage follower mode shows negative feedback, improving the system's linearity and stability.
To wrap up this session, feedback systems adjust the gain and stability of amplifiers with either supportive or opposing feedback.
Understanding Loop Gain
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Let's explore loop gain! Loop gain is crucial as it defines the overall gain of the feedback system.
What exactly is loop gain?
Loop gain is the product of the forward amplifier gain (A) and the feedback network gain (β). It can be expressed as A times β.
Why is loop gain important?
It determines how feedback will influence overall system performance. A high loop gain improves stability and control, while a low loop gain might cause instability.
So, can you simplify the relationship of feedback types and loop gain?
Absolutely, think of it this way: A positive loop gain enhances original signals, while a negative loop gain helps in stabilizing and controlling the system. Remember: 'Positive Promotes, Negative Nullifies!'
To summarize, loop gain is the product of amplifier gain and feedback gain, essential for ensuring stability in feedback systems.
Practical Applications of Feedback and Loop Gain
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Now let's discuss how we apply feedback and loop gain in real circuits.
Can you provide a specific example?
Certainly! In audio amplifiers, negative feedback is utilized to reduce distortion and improve sound quality.
And how does loop gain factor into that?
Higher loop gain ensures that any noise or distortion introduced in the amplifier is minimized, leading to clearer audio. Just remember, 'Higher Gain, Clearer Audio!'
How could we simulate this in a lab?
You can set up a circuit with an op-amp and vary feedback, measuring output changes. It's an excellent way to visualize the effects of feedback and loop gain!
In summary, practical applications of feedback systems, especially regarding audio quality, leverage the principles of loop gain to achieve better results.
Introduction & Overview
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Quick Overview
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The section provides an overview of feedback systems, outlining the two main types of feedback: negative and positive. It explains how loop gain is established in these systems and its significance in circuit analysis and performance.
Detailed
Loop Gain
In this section, we explore the concept of feedback systems in analog electronic circuits, primarily focusing on the loop gain. Feedback is a critical element in amplifiers that allows for enhanced stability and control over the gain of the system.
Understanding Feedback Systems
- Types of Feedback: Feedback systems can be classified into two main categories: negative feedback and positive feedback.
- Negative Feedback: When the feedback signal opposes the input signal, reducing the overall gain. This enhances stability and bandwidth.
- Positive Feedback: When the feedback signal reinforces the input signal, potentially leading to instability and oscillations.
Loop Gain
- Loop gain is defined as the product of the amplifier gain and the feedback network gain (Aβ). The significance of loop gain is paramount as it determines the behavior and performance of the feedback system.
- A feedback system can significantly affect the gain, input resistance, and output resistance based on the feedback type used.
In summary, an understanding of loop gain and feedback systems is essential for designing effective electronic circuits, ensuring they operate correctly within their designed parameters.
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Feedback System Overview
Chapter 1 of 4
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Chapter Content
In fact, if you see it carefully and if you go through this loop, it is having its own gain. So, if I start from any point in this loop and if I try to find what will be the net transfer function and so, if say for example, if I start from here and if I go from this point to this point I do have a transfer function of A and then through this path I do have β. So, from here to here I do have transfer function Aβ.
Detailed Explanation
When analyzing a feedback system, it's crucial to understand that there is a gain associated with the loop formed by the feedback path. The loop gain is determined by the product of the forward gain (A) and the feedback gain (β). When you follow the signal through the loop, starting from an output point and returning to the input point, you can calculate the total gain by multiplying these two transfer functions, A and β.
Examples & Analogies
Think of the loop gain like a team effort in a project. If one person (A) is good at leading the project, and another (β) is great at providing insights or feedback, their combined effect will significantly improve the outcome. Just as good communication between team members can lead to better project results, a well-designed feedback loop enhances the overall system performance.
Understanding Loop Gain
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And then again going from this point to this point here to here I do have a ‒ sign. So, we can say that this loop gain; this loop gain of the feedback system it is Aβ and also we do have a ‒ sign. So, the loop gain of the system it is ‒ Aβ.
Detailed Explanation
The sign of the loop gain is important. A negative sign indicates that the feedback signal is in the opposite phase to the input signal, which can either stabilize or destabilize the system depending on the application. In this case, the loop gain is represented as -Aβ, signifying the nature of feedback as either negative or positive.
Examples & Analogies
Imagine you are riding a bike downhill. If you apply the brakes lightly, you slow down (negative feedback). If you keep pedaling harder while going downhill, you accelerate, which can be dangerous (positive feedback). Just like the brakes control your speed and keep you safe, the negative loop gain manages the behavior of the feedback system, helping maintain stability.
Desensitization Factor
Chapter 3 of 4
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In fact, here we said it is the feedback system gain it is changing by this factor or we may say that circuit is getting desensitized by this factor. So, this factor it is referred as desensitivity factor of this ‒ve feedback system. In fact, here we said it is the feedback system gain it is changing by A factor of (1 + βA).
Detailed Explanation
The desensitization factor is a key concept in understanding how negative feedback impacts the gain of a feedback system. The formula (1 + βA) indicates how the gain is reduced, stabilizing the circuit performance by making it less responsive to variations in the input or changes in component values.
Examples & Analogies
Consider a well-tuned thermostat in your house. When the temperature varies slightly, the thermostat adjusts the heating or cooling output just enough to keep the room at a comfortable level. This adjustment minimizes sensitivity to changes, similar to how the desensitization factor works in a feedback loop to stabilize circuit performance.
Practical Implications and Assumptions
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So, while we will be deploying this formula, we need to be careful now next thing is that whatever the signal we are talking about signal at this point signal at say this point. So far we are talking about their signal. Now, these signals they can be voltage current or for that matter any other say for example, temperature pressure whatever it is.
Detailed Explanation
In practical applications, the signals manipulated by feedback systems can vary widely—from voltage and current to physical parameters like temperature and pressure. This flexibility means that the loop gain analysis can be applied across a range of systems, but it also necessitates careful attention to the specific characteristics and assumptions associated with each type of signal.
Examples & Analogies
Think of a feedback system as being like a smart home system that adjusts lighting, temperature, and security based on user behavior. Just as the system monitors multiple inputs and reacts accordingly, feedback loops analyze various signals to optimize performance. For instance, if the temperature in your home rises, the thermostat makes adjustments to maintain comfort, similar to how a feedback system stabilizes its output.
Key Concepts
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Feedback System: Involves returning part of the output to modify input.
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Loop Gain: Defined as Aβ, indicating system stability.
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Negative Feedback: Reduces gain and increases stability.
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Positive Feedback: Increases gain, can cause instability.
Examples & Applications
An operational amplifier used in a voltage follower mode shows negative feedback, enhancing linearity and stability.
In audio amplifiers, negative feedback improves sound quality by reducing distortion.
Memory Aids
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Rhymes
Positive feedback gives you a boost, while negative keeps you on course, like a stabilizing moose.
Stories
Imagine a team of musicians. If one plays louder (positive feedback), they might create a chaotic noise. But if they adjust to play softly (negative feedback), harmony is restored.
Memory Tools
Use 'P for Promoting' and 'N for Nullifying' to remember positive and negative feedback types.
Acronyms
Remember 'PLANE' for feedback
Positive leads to Amplification
Negative ensures Equilibrium.
Flash Cards
Glossary
- Feedback System
A system that takes a portion of the output signal and feeds it back to the input to modify the system behavior.
- Loop Gain
The product of the forward amplifier gain and the feedback network gain, representing how feedback influences the system.
- Negative Feedback
Feedback that opposes the input signal, leading to reduced gain and enhanced stability.
- Positive Feedback
Feedback that reinforces the input signal, potentially leading to instability.
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