Differential Amplifier Common-mode Output Resistance

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on the confusion surrounding the common-mode output resistance (Roc) in differential amplifiers. The user struggles to reconcile their findings with the provided solution, which states Roc as Rc/2, significantly lower than the differential output resistance (Rod). They derive Roc using their understanding of the circuit, leading to a different conclusion. Suggestions include consulting the instructor for clarification and considering an AC short to ground to calculate Roc. The conversation emphasizes the need for a clear understanding of common-mode output resistance in the context of differential amplifiers.
hisotaso
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Homework Statement



I am learning about differential amplifiers, and am having trouble determining the common-mode output resistance. In the text, we have the two sections "Differential-mode gain and input and output resistances" and "Common-mode gain and input resistance." Notice the lack of common mode output resistance.

The only place I can find reference to common-mode output resistance is in the section "Two-port model for differential pairs", and it is given by Roc =~ 2*μf*Ree (in this section, no derivations are shown). At the end of this section is an "Exercise", and it asks for Rod and Roc. Rod = 3.2MΩ and Roc = 4.8GΩ. In other words, Roc is much bigger.

Now, in the homework problem I am working on, VA is given as infinite, which means ro =~ VA/Ic is infinite, which means μf = gm*ro is infinite. However, in the solutions (authors solution manual) given my prof., Roc is given as Rc/2 which is much less than Rod (in this problem Rod =~ 2*Rc = 94kΩ, and and the given solution to Roc = Rc/2 = 13.5kΩ).

So my question is: what is Roc? I have googled around a bit and have not been able to find any reference to it. I would be happy with a link to a derivation (preferable actually) as opposed to just an expression, though at this point any help would be appreciated.

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution

 
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Ok well I have a line or reasoning that I think works out, please correct me if this is invalid.

Roc=\frac{v<sub>oc</sub>}{i<sub>c1</sub>+i<sub>c2</sub>}

ic1=ic2=ic

=\frac{\frac{v<sub>c1</sub>+v<sub>c2</sub>}{2}}{2i<sub>c</sub>}

=\frac{\frac{i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c1</sub>+i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c2</sub>}{2}}{2i<sub>c</sub>}

Rc1=Rc2=Rc

=\frac{i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c</sub>+i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c</sub>}{2*2i<sub>c</sub>}

=\frac{2R<sub>c</sub>}{4}

=\frac{R<sub>c</sub>}{2}
 
Last edited:
Don't know why itex isn't working, at least on my end...
 
hisotaso said:
Ok well I have a line or reasoning that I think works out, please correct me if this is invalid.

Roc=\frac{v<sub>oc</sub>}{i<sub>c1</sub>+i<sub>c2</sub>}

ic1=ic2=ic

=\frac{\frac{v<sub>c1</sub>+v<sub>c2</sub>}{2}}{2i<sub>c</sub>}

=\frac{\frac{i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c1</sub>+i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c2</sub>}{2}}{2i<sub>c</sub>}

Rc1=Rc2=Rc

=\frac{i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c</sub>+i<sub>c</sub>*R<sub>c</sub>}{2*2i<sub>c</sub>}

=\frac{2R<sub>c</sub>}{4}

=\frac{R<sub>c</sub>}{2}

Don't use itex; it's just tex. And, don't use the SUB /SUB construct within tex (but you can use it in the non-tex ordinary part of your post); use the underline prefix instead. For example your first tex expression should be like this:

Roc=\frac{v_{oc}}{i_{c1}+i_{c2}}

That didn't work out as intended. It looks like you get an extra carriage return when following the non-tex part with some tex. Maybe you should put everything inside tex:

R_{oc}=\frac{v_{oc}}{i_{c1}+i_{c2}}
 
hisotaso said:
Now, in the homework problem I am working on, VA is given as infinite, which means ro =~ VA/Ic is infinite, which means μf = gm*ro is infinite. However, in the solutions (authors solution manual) given my prof., Roc is given as Rc/2 which is much less than Rod (in this problem Rod =~ 2*Rc = 94kΩ, and and the given solution to Roc = Rc/2 = 13.5kΩ).

So my question is: what is Roc? I have googled around a bit and have not been able to find any reference to it. I would be happy with a link to a derivation (preferable actually) as opposed to just an expression, though at this point any help would be appreciated.


Maybe you should ask your instructor what the definition of common mode output impedance is.

If you put an AC short (a big capacitor) between the differential outputs and calculate the impedance from that point to ground, I think you get the result you quote for Roc.
 
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