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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
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.


Common-Mode Chokes: From Working Principles to Important Performance Parameters

Common-Mode Chokes: From Working Principles to Important Performance Parameters

Learn how these simple filters can help you combat common-mode noise with minimal degradation of the desired signal.


Switching Losses in Bipolar Junction Transistors

Switching Losses in Bipolar Junction Transistors

With the help of SPICE simulations, we examine two types of power dissipation that occur when BJTs are used as switches.


Introduction to MOSFET Switching Losses

Introduction to MOSFET Switching Losses

This article will help you optimize your switch-mode regulator and driver circuits by explaining important sources of MOSFET power dissipation.


Common-Mode Noise in Differential Transmissions: Characteristics and Causes

Common-Mode Noise in Differential Transmissions: Characteristics and Causes

High-speed data transmission interfaces such as USB, HDMI, and Ethernet use differential signaling due to its superior noise immunity. Even so, some noise still appears. To remove it, we need to understand where it comes from and why.


Op Amp Slew Rate and Rise Time Explained

Op Amp Slew Rate and Rise Time Explained

To avoid distortion and slow transitions in an operational amplifier's output signal, it's important to understand slew rate. In this article, we examine its causes and effects.


Understanding RF Calibration Using Short, Open, Load, and Through Terminations

Understanding RF Calibration Using Short, Open, Load, and Through Terminations

In this article, we conclude our discussion of VNAs by walking through the steps of a SOLT calibration and examining the potential non-idealities of its reference standards.


Understanding Output Signal Swing in Op Amps

Understanding Output Signal Swing in Op Amps

Learn about the characteristics and limitations of an operational amplifier’s output voltage range.


Understanding Input Signal Swing in Op Amps

Understanding Input Signal Swing in Op Amps

This article, the first in a two-part series on op amp signal swing, explains the characteristics and limitations of an operational amplifier’s input voltages.


Frequency Response of the MOSFET Common-Source Amplifier

Frequency Response of the MOSFET Common-Source Amplifier

In this article, we learn about the frequency response of the MOSFET common-source amplifier by examining its s-domain transfer function.


Introduction to the MOSFET Common-Source Amplifier

Introduction to the MOSFET Common-Source Amplifier

In this article, we cover the basic behavior of the MOSFET common-source amplifier with different types of load.


How to Estimate and Enhance the Dynamic Range of a Vector Network Analyzer

How to Estimate and Enhance the Dynamic Range of a Vector Network Analyzer

This article explains how to estimate the dynamic range a vector network analyzer (VNA) needs for a given measurement, then discusses four techniques for boosting the dynamic range to the required level.


Understanding the Significance of Dynamic Range and Spurious-Free Dynamic Range

Understanding the Significance of Dynamic Range and Spurious-Free Dynamic Range

In this article, we investigate two metrics used to characterize the performance of RF test and measurement systems.


Understanding the Inner Workings of Vector Network Analyzers

Understanding the Inner Workings of Vector Network Analyzers

In this article, we explore how the signal source and receivers of a VNA enable its function.


Understanding RF Power Measurement Errors in Directional Couplers

Understanding RF Power Measurement Errors in Directional Couplers

Directional couplers are valuable tools for testing RF systems. However, the finite directivity of these devices can cause measurement uncertainty. Learn more in this article.


Balun Basics and Practical Performance Parameters

Balun Basics and Practical Performance Parameters

Learn about the balun, a special type of transformer used in mixers, amplifiers, and signaling.


Introduction to the Directional Coupler for RF Applications

Introduction to the Directional Coupler for RF Applications

As part of a vector network analyzer (VNA), a directional coupler enables us to characterize a device’s performance by its S-parameters. Read this article to learn more about this important piece of equipment.


Basic Principles of the Push-Pull Class B Power Amplifier

Basic Principles of the Push-Pull Class B Power Amplifier

Learn how a push-pull Class B amplifier functions, how to calculate its efficiency, and how its performance compares to the inductively-loaded Class A design.