In the field of electronics, analog circuits are a crucial and often challenging subject for many students. In this article, I will share my personal understanding and insights into analog circuits, hoping to provide some value to those who are studying or interested in this area.
Engineering thinking is at the core of mastering analog circuits. While my academic performance might not be outstanding, I have gained practical experience through hands-on projects and competitions. Analog circuits are not just about solving textbook problems—they are an engineering discipline that requires a deep understanding of real-world applications. According to Baidu Encyclopedia, engineering involves applying science and mathematics to create structures, machines, and systems that are efficient, reliable, and useful to humans. This principle is especially evident in analog circuits, where the concept of approximation plays a central role.
In high school physics, we often deal with idealized circuits, such as assuming zero wire resistance or 100% efficiency in transformers. However, in real-world analog circuit design, we frequently use approximations to simplify complex calculations. These approximations don’t compromise accuracy but help reduce complexity, making problem-solving more efficient. This engineering mindset is essential for designing and analyzing analog circuits effectively.
Analog circuits process continuous signals, unlike digital circuits which work with discrete values. Examples include audio signals, temperature readings, and radio waves—nearly all natural signals are analog. These signals can be amplified, filtered, and processed directly by analog circuits. For instance, power amplifiers boost sound signals, and broadcast stations transmit both audio and video signals using analog technology. Even though digital circuits have become dominant, they still rely on underlying analog principles.
At the heart of analog circuits are semiconductor devices like diodes, transistors, and operational amplifiers (op-amps). Diodes serve various functions, from rectification to voltage regulation, while transistors act as amplifiers or switches. Op-amps, in particular, are versatile components that integrate multiple transistors into a single chip, simplifying circuit design and reducing costs.
One of the most important concepts in analog circuits is negative feedback. It helps stabilize amplifier outputs by comparing the output to the input and adjusting accordingly. This technique prevents distortion and ensures consistent performance. For example, in a triode amplifier, negative feedback can significantly improve gain stability, even though it reduces the overall gain slightly.
Operational amplifiers are widely used because they simplify complex designs. Their internal structure allows them to perform mathematical operations, which is why they were originally called "operational" amplifiers. Today, they are essential in signal processing, filtering, and control systems. Understanding their behavior—especially the virtual short and virtual open concepts—is key to effective circuit design.
While op-amps offer convenience, transistors still have their place, especially in high-frequency or high-power applications. They provide better performance in certain scenarios and can be more cost-effective for simple circuits. The choice between op-amps and transistors depends on the specific requirements of the design.
For those looking to deepen their knowledge, I recommend books like *Analog Electronic Technology Foundation* by Tong Shibai and Hua Chengying, and *The Analog Electronic Circuit and Technology Foundation* by Xi Xiaosun. These resources cover both theoretical and practical aspects, helping readers bridge the gap between textbooks and real-world applications.
In conclusion, analog circuits are a complex but fascinating field that requires both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. While textbooks provide a solid foundation, real-world design often involves trial and error, intuition, and a deep understanding of engineering principles. I hope this article has offered some valuable insights and inspired further exploration into the world of analog electronics.
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