Shifting 0-5V signal to -2.5-2.5V

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around methods to shift a 0-5V signal to a -2.5 to 2.5V range, focusing on applications in electronic circuits, particularly involving DACs and op-amps. Participants explore various approaches and considerations for achieving this voltage conversion.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Experimental/applied
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests using an op-amp voltage difference amplifier to subtract 2.5V from the input signal.
  • Another participant confirms the need for a bipolar power supply for the circuit, indicating it is a unipolar to bipolar converter.
  • There is a suggestion that a large capacitor could be used in the signal line if the signal frequency is above 10Hz, potentially simplifying the circuit without an op-amp.
  • A resistor divider to a negative supply voltage is also proposed as an alternative method for shifting the signal.
  • One participant shares their application context, mentioning they are working on a laser scanner system and seeking an adjustable supply for operational limits.
  • Another participant compares the galvanometers to speaker voice coils, suggesting that an inline capacitor might suffice, but notes the potential need for more power than typical PC outputs can provide.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express various methods for shifting the voltage, but there is no consensus on the best approach. Some methods are proposed as alternatives, and the discussion remains open to different solutions based on specific application needs.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention the need for additional details about the signal's nature and application to provide more tailored solutions. There are also considerations regarding power requirements and the limitations of different output sources.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals working with DACs, op-amps, or in applications involving voltage signal conversion, particularly in audio or laser scanning systems, may find this discussion relevant.

bassplayer142
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Shifting 0--5V signal to -2.5--2.5V

I have a DAC coming from my micro with a signal that will vary anywhere from 0-5Volts. What are my options of shifting that down so I can get a -2.5 -- 2.5V swing? Thanks!
 
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In a op-amp voltage difference amplifier, you could subtract 2.5V from the input:

diffa2.gif
 

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For this setup I will need to supply a positive voltage on pin 7 and a negative one on pin 4 right? thanks
 


bassplayer142 said:
For this setup I will need to supply a positive voltage on pin 7 and a negative one on pin 4 right? thanks

Yes, about +5 / -5 volts DC at a minimum.

There may be a much simpler solution but without a more detailed description of the nature of the signal then you mightn't get it.
 
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Yes, you need a bipolar power supply. Your circuit is a unipolar to bipolar converter. If interested, I have an article about this type of circuit here:

Design a Unipolar to Bipolar Converter for a Unipolar Voltage Output DAC
http://masteringelectronicsdesign.com/design-a-unipolar-to-bipolar-converter-for-a-unipolar-voltage-output-dac/"
 
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From your name, bassplayer, I'm thinking that you have an audio signal?

If it is over 10Hz or so, presuming that the destination is biased around 0v, you might be able to just put a big capacitor in the signal line. You might also get away with using a resistor divider to a negative supply voltage without bothering with an Op-Amp.

What's your actual application?
 


Actually I'm working on a laser scanner system for light show with some mirror galvanometers. I don't have a datasheet on them or any type of function generator so having an easily adjustable supply will be great for finding the limits of operation. Thanks for all the posts, its been a great help!
 


Then they are pretty much just speaker voice coils, and a inline capacitor will do the trick. However you probably need more power than the PC output can push. Perhaps more than the PC headphone output too, but you could try that or a small powered speaker system for a start.
 

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