What is an Inverting Amplifier?
An inverting amplifier configuration using an operational amplifier is depicted in Figure 23. The operational amplifier (op-amp) is set up to function as an inverting amplifier with a controlled voltage gain. Here’s a breakdown of its key components:
Input Signal Handling
- The input signal is introduced through a series input resistor (Ri) to the inverting () input of the op-amp.
Feedback Mechanism
- The output is fed back through a feedback resistor (Rf) to the inverting input. This feedback arrangement helps determine the amount of voltage gain in the amplifier.
Noninverting Input
- The non-inverting () input of the op-amp is grounded, providing a reference point.
Virtual Ground Concept
- In analyzing the inverting amplifier, the ideal op-amp characteristics are considered, particularly the infinite input resistance. An infinite input resistance implies that no current flows into the inverting input. Since there is no current through the input resistance, there is no voltage drop between the inverting and noninverting inputs. Consequently, the voltage at the inverting () input is virtually zero. This concept of zero voltage at the inverting input terminal is known as “virtual ground.”
- The virtual ground concept simplifies the analysis of the inverting amplifier, making it easier to understand and design. It’s a valuable tool in circuit analysis and design involving operational amplifiers.
Difference between Inverting Amplifier and Non-Inverting Amplifier
| Basis of Difference | Inverting Amplifier | Non-Inverting Amplifier |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | A type of operational amplifier that generates an amplified output signal 180° out of phase with the input signal. | A type of operational amplifier that generates an amplified output signal in phase with the applied input signal. |
| Input | The input signal is applied at the negative (inverting) terminal of the amplifier. | The input signal is applied at the positive (non-inverting) terminal. |
| Phase Difference | 180° phase difference between input and output signals. | 0° phase difference between input and output signals. |
| Feedback | Feedback is provided at the same terminal as the input signal. | Feedback and input signals are connected to different terminals. |
| Ground Terminal | The positive terminal is connected to the ground. | The negative terminal is connected to the ground. |
| Feedback Ground | Feedback is not connected to the ground. | Feedback is connected to the ground through a resistance (R1). |
| Nature of Output | Produces an inverted output with negative polarity. | Produces a non-inverted output with positive polarity. |
| Expression of Closed Loop Gain | Av = -R2/R1 (ratio of resistances). | Av = 1 + R2/R1 (sum of 1 and the ratio of resistances). |
| Gain Polarity | Negative. | Positive. |
| Gain Value | Gain may be less than, more than, or equal to unity (1). | Gain is always more than 1. |
| Input Impedance | Input impedance equal to R1. | Extremely high input impedance. |
| Applications | Trans-resistance amplifiers, circuits with sensors, integrator circuits, phase shifters, etc. | Circuits requiring high input impedance, isolation of cascaded circuits, voltage followers, etc. |
These differences highlight the distinct characteristics and applications of inverting and non-inverting amplifiers in electronic circuits.
Advantages of Non-Inverting Amplifier Configuration
Avoidance of Inverting Relations
- The non-inverting amplifier configuration is advantageous in audio and instrumentation applications as it avoids the inherent inverting nature of an operational amplifier (OP Amp).
- This is particularly beneficial when dealing with signals where maintaining the phase relationship is crucial.
Lower Input Impedance
- Non-inverting amplifiers typically exhibit lower input impedance compared to their inverting counterparts.
- This lower input impedance contributes to improved compatibility with signal sources, preventing loading effects and signal degradation.
Reduced Distortion
- The use of low-value feedback resistors in the non-inverting configuration helps in reducing distortion.
- Lower distortion levels contribute to better signal fidelity and accuracy in various applications, especially in audio systems and measurement instruments.
High Input Impedance
- Non-inverting amplifiers are designed to provide high input impedance, ensuring that they do not draw significant current from the input signal source.
- High input impedance is advantageous for interfacing with sources that have higher output impedance, preventing signal loss and ensuring efficient signal transfer.
Flexibility in Feedback Resistor Selection
- The non-inverting configuration allows for the use of various feedback resistor values to achieve the desired gain.
- This flexibility in resistor selection enables customization of the amplifier’s performance characteristics according to the specific requirements of the application.
- In summary, the non-inverting amplifier configuration offers advantages such as avoiding inverting relationships in certain applications, providing low input impedance, reducing distortion, ensuring high input impedance, and allowing flexibility in feedback resistor selection for tailored performance.