Operational Amplifier Gain Formulas:
From: | To: |
Operational amplifiers (op-amps) are fundamental building blocks in analog electronics. Inverting amplifiers produce an output that is 180 degrees out of phase with the input, while non-inverting amplifiers maintain the same phase as the input signal.
The calculator uses the standard op-amp gain formulas:
Where:
Explanation: These formulas assume ideal op-amp characteristics including infinite input impedance, zero output impedance, and infinite open-loop gain.
Details: Accurate gain calculation is essential for designing signal conditioning circuits, audio amplifiers, filters, and various analog processing systems where precise voltage amplification is required.
Tips: Select amplifier type, enter resistor values in ohms. Both resistor values must be positive and non-zero. The gain is dimensionless (unitless) as it represents a voltage ratio.
Q1: What is the difference between inverting and non-inverting amplifiers?
A: Inverting amplifiers reverse the signal phase and have gain determined solely by resistor ratio. Non-inverting amplifiers preserve phase and always have gain ≥1.
Q2: Can the gain be less than 1 for these configurations?
A: Inverting amplifiers can have gain less than 1, but non-inverting amplifiers always have gain ≥1 due to the "1+" term in the formula.
Q3: What are typical resistor values used?
A: Common values range from 1kΩ to 1MΩ. Values should be chosen to provide adequate input impedance and avoid loading effects.
Q4: When should I use inverting vs non-inverting configuration?
A: Use inverting for phase inversion and when input impedance is not critical. Use non-inverting when high input impedance is required.
Q5: Are there limitations to these ideal formulas?
A: Real op-amps have limitations including finite bandwidth, slew rate, and input offset voltage that affect performance at high frequencies and precision applications.