What This Document Is
This is a prelab assignment designed to prepare students for a laboratory experiment in Microelectronic Devices and Circuits (ELENG 105) at the University of California, Berkeley. Specifically, it focuses on the analysis and design considerations surrounding differential amplifiers – a fundamental building block in analog circuit design. It’s structured as a set of problems that require applying core BJT principles to a specific circuit configuration. This prelab is intended to be completed *before* physically building and testing the circuit in the lab.
Why This Document Matters
This resource is essential for students enrolled in ELENG 105 who are approaching the differential amplifier lab. Successfully working through these problems will solidify your understanding of biasing techniques, small-signal analysis, and performance parameters related to differential amplifiers. It’s most beneficial to use this prelab to reinforce lecture material and ensure you’re prepared to efficiently and effectively complete the lab experiment. A strong grasp of the concepts presented here will contribute to a more successful lab experience and a deeper understanding of differential amplifier operation.
Topics Covered
* Differential Amplifier Biasing
* Resistor Selection for Specific Current Levels
* DC Output Voltage Control and Bias Point Determination
* Output Resistance Calculation
* Differential-Mode Gain Analysis
* Common-Mode Gain Analysis
* Common-Mode Rejection Ratio (CMRR)
What This Document Provides
* A schematic diagram of a differential pair with a resistive load for analysis.
* Key transistor parameters (Beta and Early Voltage) for 2N3904 and 2N3006 BJTs.
* A series of analytical problems designed to test your understanding of differential amplifier characteristics.
* A framework for relating component values to circuit performance metrics.
* Opportunities to practice applying fundamental circuit analysis techniques to a practical amplifier configuration.
