Operational amplifiers (op-amps) are versatile analog building blocks used in countless electronic circuits. By selecting the right configuration and resistor values, you can create amplifiers, buffers, filters, and signal conditioning circuits.

Common Configurations

Ideal vs. Real Op-Amps

Popular Op-Amp ICs

Design Considerations

• Gain-Bandwidth Product (GBW): The product of gain and bandwidth is constant. Higher gain reduces available bandwidth. Check GBW in the datasheet.
• Resistor Selection: Use values between 1kΩ and 1MΩ. Too low increases power consumption; too high increases noise and offset errors.
• Matching Resistors: For differential amplifiers, use 0.1% tolerance resistors or resistor networks for best common-mode rejection.
• Stability: Some op-amps require compensation capacitors. Unity-gain stable op-amps are easier to use but may have lower bandwidth.
• Power Supply: Use adequate bypass capacitors (100nF ceramic + 10µF electrolytic) close to power pins. Consider single vs. dual supply operation.