Operational Amplifiers (Op-Amps)
Definition
Operational amplifier (op-amp)
An electronic device that amplifies weak signals.
Key Characteristics
- High-Gain Voltage Amplifiers: Op-amps can amplify weak signals to usable levels.
- Differential Inputs: They have two inputs:
- Inverting (-): Reverses the phase of the input signal.
- Non-Inverting (+): Maintains the phase of the input signal.
- Single Output: Provides the amplified signal.
Note
Op-amps are often represented by a triangle symbol in circuit diagrams, with the inputs on one side and the output on the other.
Internet of Things (IoT)
Definition
Internet of Things (IoT)
Everyday objects and devices embedded with computing technology that are interconnected through the internet, allowing them to send, receive, and respond to data.
- Common examples include smart thermostats, fitness trackers, and home security systems.
- Op-amps are essential in these systems for processing sensor signals.
- A temperature sensor might produce a tiny voltage. An op-amp boosts this signal so a microcontroller can read it.
- In IoT appliances, op-amps condition signals from motion detectors, light sensors, and microphones.
- They are also used in smart home devices, such as voice assistants and connected alarms, to amplify input from sound or vibration sensors.
Common Applications of Op-Amps
| Application | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Signal Amplification | Amplifies weak sensor signals for further processing. |
| Filtering | Used in active filters to block unwanted frequencies. |
| Voltage Comparison (Comparator) | Detects when one signal exceeds another—useful in sensors and triggers. |
| Analog-to-Digital Preparation | Conditions analogue signals before conversion in IoT devices. |
| Audio Amplifiers | Boosts microphone or audio signals in speakers and radios. |
Analogy
Think of an op-amp as a magnifying glass for electrical signals. Just as a magnifying glass enlarges small text, an op-amp amplifies weak signals, making them easier to process and analyse.
