What are the characteristics of an ideal operational amplifier?


In the world of electronics, few components are as versatile and indispensable as the operational amplifier, often referred to simply as op-amp. From basic circuits to complex systems, op-amps play a crucial role in amplification, signal processing, and control. But what is ideal operational amplifier (op-amp) exactly, and how does it work?


What is ideal operational amplifier?

At its core, an operational amplifier is a high-gain electronic device designed to amplify voltage signals. It takes in an input voltage and produces an output voltage that is a multiple of the input voltage. Op-amps are characterized by their versatility, high input impedance, low output impedance, and precise amplification capabilities.


What are the characteristics of an ideal operational amplifier?

In an ideal world, an operational amplifier would possess certain key characteristics:


1. Infinite open-loop gain (AOL): This means that the op-amp amplifies the input signal infinitely without any limitations.


2. Infinite input impedance: An ideal op-amp draws no current from the input source, allowing it to interface with various circuits without loading the input signal.


3. Zero output impedance: The output impedance of an ideal op-amp is zero, ensuring that it can drive any load without affecting the output signal.


4. Infinite bandwidth: Ideal op-amps have unlimited frequency response, allowing them to amplify signals across a wide range of frequencies without distortion.


5. Zero input offset voltage: There is no voltage difference required between the input terminals for the op-amp to operate ideally.

Block Diagram of Operational Amplifier:




Inverting amplifier and non inverting amplifier Amplifiers:

In inverting amplifier, the input signal is applied to the inverting terminal of the op-amp. Hence, the circuit is called inverting amplifier. The circuit diagram for inverting amplifier is shown below,





The voltage at inverting terminal follows the voltage at non-inverting terminal. Since the non-inverting terminal is at ground potential, the voltage at inverting terminal is also equal to zero. This

means that the inverting input is at a virtual ground. The current flowing into op-amp is zero.

Therefore the current through resistor 𝑅1 is same as the current through 𝑅2. That is






In non-inverting amplifier the input signal is applied to non-inverting terminal of the op-amp and the output voltage is in phase with the input signal. Hence the name non-inverting amplifier. The circuit diagram for non-inverting amplifier is shown in figure.



The voltage between inverting and non-inverting terminals is zero. Therefore the voltage at inverting terminal is equal to 𝑉 𝑖. Also


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