Can Step up transformer amplify signals?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around whether a step-up transformer can amplify voltage signals in a manner similar to a transistor. Participants explore the theoretical and practical implications of using transformers for signal amplification, addressing concepts of power, voltage, and current in the context of passive versus active devices.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants assert that a transformer is a passive device and cannot provide power gain, emphasizing that it can only change voltage while maintaining the original power level.
  • Others introduce the concept of magnetic amplifiers (Mag-Amps), suggesting that they can control energy coupling and provide power gain under certain conditions.
  • A participant mentions that while a step-up transformer can increase voltage, it will reduce current correspondingly to maintain power balance.
  • There is a discussion about the definition of amplification, with some arguing that amplification should refer strictly to power gain, while others suggest that voltage increase can also be considered amplification.
  • One participant shares a practical example involving ferrite antennas and FET amplifiers to illustrate how voltage can be effectively increased in a specific application.
  • Concerns are raised about the semantics of amplification, particularly regarding the use of dB measurements and the importance of impedance matching in determining the effectiveness of amplification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally disagree on the definition of amplification and whether a step-up transformer can be classified as an amplifier. Some maintain that it cannot provide power gain, while others argue that it can amplify voltage under specific conditions. The discussion remains unresolved with multiple competing views.

Contextual Notes

Participants highlight that the effectiveness of transformers in amplifying signals may depend on factors such as source capability, signal frequency, and the specific design of the transformer circuit. The discussion also touches on the nuances of defining active versus passive components and the implications for signal processing.

  • #31
sophiecentaur said:
When all you need is increased amplitude of a voltage signal and when the pass-band is narrow then a transformer can be used.
As the prime concern was increasing the voltage amplitude(voltage gain) i guess i could use a step up tranformer in circuits where size doesnot matter.
 
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  • #32
bukks bunny said:
As the prime concern was increasing the voltage amplitude(voltage gain) i guess i could use a step up tranformer in circuits where size doesnot matter.

Do you 'have a thing' about transformers?
It is possible to knock a nail in a piece of wood, using a pickaxe but why would you want to?
Whilst there are occasions when all sorts of alternatives can be used to achieve a result, why not think in terms of using the standard approach? As I said before, there may be good reasons why you should not use a transformer in some circumstances. Wide-band transformers are very problematic and, of course, have infinite insertion loss at DC. They have their place but they are not amplifiers - end of.
This thread is going nowhere now. You have your answers so make your choice.
 

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