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Introduction to the Class C Power Amplifier

Introduction to the Class C Power Amplifier

This article examines the operation of the Class C power amplifier and how it compares to its Class A and Class B counterparts.


Introduction to the Common-Drain Amplifier: Large-Signal Behavior

Introduction to the Common-Drain Amplifier: Large-Signal Behavior

Also known as the source follower, the common-drain amplifier is notable for its low output impedance. This article introduces the basic common-drain configuration and examines its large-signal characteristics.


Understanding Inductors With Gapped Cores

Understanding Inductors With Gapped Cores

In this article, we explore the advantages of introducing an air gap to the magnetic core of an inductor.


The Wireless Alphabet Flasher: A Radio Shack Classics Circuit Remix

The Wireless Alphabet Flasher: A Radio Shack Classics Circuit Remix

In this project, we mix the old and the new by integrating present-day BLE technology with a vintage Science Fair computer kit.


Projects Jul 21, 2024 by Don Wilcher
Controlling and Preventing Core Saturation in Inductors

Controlling and Preventing Core Saturation in Inductors

Core saturation is one of the main limitations on the design of magnetic components. In this article, we explore how different factors—particularly the number of turns—impact the core saturation of an inductor.


Using Permeability to Understand Magnetic Core Saturation

Using Permeability to Understand Magnetic Core Saturation

In this article, we learn about core saturation and why it should be avoided in most applications. We then examine how different ways of defining permeability can help us predict the saturation flux density of a magnetic core.


Moving Data Through an LTspice Parallel-Load Shift Register

Moving Data Through an LTspice Parallel-Load Shift Register

This article demonstrates the operation of an LTspice shift register and discusses details of its schematic and timing relationships.


Understanding How Laminated Cores Reduce Eddy Current Loss

Understanding How Laminated Cores Reduce Eddy Current Loss

Eddy currents are a major loss mechanism in transformer cores. This article provides both in-depth and simplified explanations of how core laminations work to mitigate the effects of eddy currents.


Creating a Parallel-Load Shift Register in LTspice

Creating a Parallel-Load Shift Register in LTspice

We explore the design and functionality of a digital shift register intended for use in mixed-signal circuit simulations.


Hysteresis Loss: Estimation, Modeling, and the Steinmetz Equation

Hysteresis Loss: Estimation, Modeling, and the Steinmetz Equation

The hysteresis effect is one of the main sources of loss in ferromagnetic materials. In this article, we learn to calculate the hysteresis loss of a magnetic core and work through some example problems.


Understanding Magnetic Field Energy and Hysteresis Loss in Magnetic Cores

Understanding Magnetic Field Energy and Hysteresis Loss in Magnetic Cores

In this article, we use the concept of magnetic field energy to explore the relationship between a core's hysteresis loss and its B-H curve.


Modifying the Operation of Digital Components in LTspice

Modifying the Operation of Digital Components in LTspice

Customizing the device parameters of LTspice's logic gates and flip-flops can help you more accurately simulate these components. This article walks through the specification process and provides some helpful tips.


Understanding Dimensional Resonance in High-Frequency Magnetic Cores

Understanding Dimensional Resonance in High-Frequency Magnetic Cores

In this article, we explore the effect of dimensional resonance on the magnetic field distribution in high-frequency ferrite cores.


An Introduction to Using Logic Gates in LTspice

An Introduction to Using Logic Gates in LTspice

This article explains how to successfully integrate logic gates into an LTspice simulation.


Understanding the Effect of Eddy Currents on the High-Frequency Behavior of Magnetic Cores

Understanding the Effect of Eddy Currents on the High-Frequency Behavior of Magnetic Cores

The formation of eddy currents can cause problems for magnetic cores at high frequencies. To mitigate these undesirable effects, we first need to understand them.


Simulating MOSFET Current-Voltage Characteristics Using Advanced SPICE Models

Simulating MOSFET Current-Voltage Characteristics Using Advanced SPICE Models

In this article, we use a SPICE model for 90 nm CMOS to plot key electrical relationships of an NMOS transistor.


Using Advanced SPICE models to Characterize an NMOS Transistor

Using Advanced SPICE models to Characterize an NMOS Transistor

SPICE models designed for specific CMOS process nodes can enhance simulations of integrated-circuit transistors. Learn where to find these models and how to use them.


Using Clever Techniques to Convert a Passive Audio Filter Into an Active Filter

Using Clever Techniques to Convert a Passive Audio Filter Into an Active Filter

This project covers two fascinating and useful circuit design techniques—the Burton Transform and Dualling—that allow us to transform a passive network into an active network while building an audio noise filter.


Projects Jun 02, 2024 by John Woodgate
Using Complex Permeability to Characterize Magnetic Core Losses

Using Complex Permeability to Characterize Magnetic Core Losses

In this article, we use the concept of magnetic field intensity to help explain how complex permeability models the losses of a magnetic core.


Simulating the Short-Circuit Power Dissipation of a CMOS Inverter

Simulating the Short-Circuit Power Dissipation of a CMOS Inverter

Current briefly flows through both transistors during logic-level transitions. This article explores the resulting power dissipation and provides some helpful LTspice tips for measuring current and power.