Why is the output of the integrating op amp reversed?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the behavior of an integrating operational amplifier (op-amp) and the observed output polarity. The user notes that the output signal appears inverted, contrary to expectations for an integrator circuit. This is attributed to the inverting configuration of the op-amp, where the non-inverting input is held at zero volts. The output polarity reversal is necessary due to the current flow dynamics through the feedback components, specifically the resistor R1 and capacitor C1.

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  • Understanding of operational amplifier configurations, particularly inverting and non-inverting setups.
  • Knowledge of integration in the context of signal processing.
  • Familiarity with feedback components, including resistors and capacitors in op-amp circuits.
  • Basic principles of electrical current flow and voltage levels in circuits.
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  • Review application notes on op-amps, such as Texas Instruments' AN-31, for practical insights and examples.
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Cantstandit
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Hello,
I'm having problem understanding the output of the integrating op amp.

https://www.dropbox.com/s/djpg0uhi465ot86/download2.png
https://www.dropbox.com/s/djpg0uhi465ot86/download2.png

https://www.dropbox.com/s/p9bp9tlyykhjtvf/download.png
https://www.dropbox.com/s/p9bp9tlyykhjtvf/download.png
(hope you can see that, I can't see it on my preview)

The blue line is input, orange is output. So if it's supposed to integrate, surely output signal has a wrong sign, doesn't it? If the integral is the area under the square signal, there should be linear increase when the signal is positive and linear decrease when it's negative, yet it's the other way around, why? I'd thought it was because my voltage had been applied to the inverting input of the op-amp, but even when I flipped it, it stays the same...
 
Last edited:
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Remember you have an inverting amplifier there.
The opamp will hold its inputs equal, and +input is at zero.
Therefore whatever current is pushed into summing junction through R1 must get pulled back out through C1&R2,,,,
,,,so an input to output reversal of polarity is nessary.

After the initial transient (power up i presume?) , output looks like it moves in right direction.

http://www.ti.com/ww/en/bobpease/assets/AN-31.pdf
 
Last edited:

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