In Chapter 14, we fully explore the small-signal characteristics of three families of single-stage amplifiers. We will discover why certain transistor terminals are preferred for signal input whereas others are used for signal outputs. The results define three broad classes of amplifiers.
Inverting amplifiers--the common-emitter and common-source configurations that provide high voltage gain with a 180° phase shift
Followers--the common-collector and common-drain configurations--that provide nearly unity gain similar to the op amp voltage follower
Noninverting amplifiers--the common-base and common-gate configurations--that provide high voltage gain with no phase shift
For each type of amplifier, we discuss the detailed design of
Voltage gain and input voltage range
Current gain
Input and output resistances
Coupling and bypass capacitor design and lower cutoff
frequency
The results become our design toolkit and are used to solve a number of examples of design problems.
As in most chapters, we will continue to increase our understanding of SPICE simulation and interpretation of SPICE results. In particular, we try to understand the differences between
SPICE ac (small-signal), transient (large signal), and transfer function analysis modes
