Which Op-Amp Should You Use: Voltage or Current Amplifier?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the choice between using voltage amplifiers and current amplifiers in operational amplifier (op-amp) applications. Participants explore when to use each type and seek clarification on their differences, including requests for schematic representations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the preference for voltage versus current op-amps and seeks clarification on their appropriate applications.
  • Another participant notes that historically, all op-amps were current input devices until the introduction of FET inputs, which allowed them to function as voltage input devices through feedback schemes.
  • A request is made for schematic diagrams illustrating both voltage and current op-amps to aid understanding.
  • A participant shares a link to a paper contrasting voltage feedback and current feedback op-amps, indicating it contains useful information.
  • Several participants report issues accessing the shared document, with one suggesting checking software compatibility and looking for alternative resources online.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on the preference for voltage or current op-amps, and participants express varying levels of understanding and access to resources. The discussion remains open with multiple viewpoints and unresolved questions.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty regarding the accessibility of external resources and the technical distinctions between op-amp types. There are also unresolved issues related to document compatibility and the need for further clarification on terminology.

electronic engineer
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in most cases would we prefer voltage op-amp or current op-amp and why?

when to use op-amp as voltage or current amplifier?

thanks in advance
 
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Up until FET inputs on op-amps, ALL op-amps were current input devices. Using resistors in various feedback schemes they are made to act as voltage input devices.
 
ok , i got it now! could you please attach some schemes on both types (voltage and current op-amps)

thanks a lot!
 
i've download that file but couldn't be read by my PC , it says that the file is damaged

regards!
 
electronic engineer said:
i've download that file but couldn't be read by my PC , it says that the file is damaged

regards!
Check to be sure that you are using the latest Acrobat Reader version, and maybe see if any of your other friends can read it okay. Otherwise, just use the original google search to look for similar write-ups. The TI on is especially good though.
 
i have acrobat reader 7.0 ...what did you mean by write-ups could you clarify more, are they other softwares similar to acrobat reader...

many thanks to you!
 
By write-ups, I just meant some of the other hits on the google search that I mentioned. Best of luck. -Mike-
 

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