3. Oscillator Basics

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define positive feedback in your own words.

   Hint

   Think about how sounds amplify when you use a microphone near a speaker.

2. 2.

   What are Barkhausen's Criteria?

   Hint

   Recall the minimum requirement for a sustained oscillation.

3. 3.

   What is the role of positive feedback in oscillators?

   • A. It amplifies the output signal
   • B. It reduces distortion
   • C. It reinforces the input signal

   Hint

   Think about how echoes work as a form of feedback.

4. 4.

   Barkhausen's Criteria requires that the loop gain must be less than 1.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Refer back to the definition of Barkhausen's Criteria.

5. 5.

   Given a hypothetical oscillator with a loop gain of 0.8, analyze how you could alter the circuit to meet Barkhausen's Criteria.

   Hint

   Consider modifying the gain stage components in your analysis.

6. 6.

   Create a simulation of an oscillator circuit and determine if it meets Barkhausen's Criteria. If it doesn't, suggest modifications.

   Hint

   Observe the output waveforms and measure the gain and phase shifts.