Does your op amp oscillate?

We analog designers take great pains to make our amplifiers stable when we design them, but there are many situations that cause them to oscillate in the real world.  Various types of loads can make them sing.  Improperly designed feedback networks can cause instability.  Insufficient supply bypassing can offend.  Finally, inputs and outputs can oscillate by themselves as one-port systems. This article will address common causes of oscillation and their remedies.

Some Basics

amp oscillate

Figure 1a shows the block diagram of a non-rail-to-rail amplifier.  The inputs control the gm block which drives the gain node and is buffered at the output.  The compensation capacitor Cc is the dominant frequency response element.  The return of Cc would go to ground if there were such a pin; however op amps traditionally have no ground and the capacitor current will return to one or both supplies.

The input gm’s output current is sent through a “current coupler” that splits the drive current between the output transistors.  Frequency response is dominated by the two Cc /2s, which are effectively in parallel.  These two topologies describe the vast majority of op amps that use external feedback.

 

For more detail: Does your op amp oscillate?


About The Author

Ibrar Ayyub

I am an experienced technical writer holding a Master's degree in computer science from BZU Multan, Pakistan University. With a background spanning various industries, particularly in home automation and engineering, I have honed my skills in crafting clear and concise content. Proficient in leveraging infographics and diagrams, I strive to simplify complex concepts for readers. My strength lies in thorough research and presenting information in a structured and logical format.

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