Explain log and antilog amplifier circuit using Op-Amp.


Q.) Explain log and antilog amplifier circuit using Op-Amp.

Subject: electronic devices and circuit

Log Amplifier Circuit using Op-Amp

A log amplifier circuit is used to compress a wide range of input signals into a narrower range of output signals. It is useful in applications where a wide range of input signals needs to be displayed or processed.

The circuit consists of an operational amplifier (op-amp), a feedback resistor (Rf), and an input resistor (Ri). The op-amp is configured as an inverting amplifier. The input signal is applied to the non-inverting input of the op-amp, and the feedback resistor is connected between the output of the op-amp and the inverting input.

The output voltage of the log amplifier is given by:

$$V_{out} = -V_{in} \cdot \log_{10} \left(1 + \frac{R_f}{R_i} \right)$$

where:

  • $$V_{out}$$ is the output voltage
  • $$V_{in}$$ is the input voltage
  • $$R_f$$ is the feedback resistor
  • $$R_i$$ is the input resistor

The logarithmic function in the output voltage equation compresses the wide range of input signals into a narrower range of output signals. This is because the logarithmic function has a smaller slope for larger input values.

Antilog Amplifier Circuit using Op-Amp

An antilog amplifier circuit is used to expand a narrow range of input signals into a wider range of output signals. It is the inverse of a log amplifier circuit.

The circuit consists of an operational amplifier (op-amp), a feedback resistor (Rf), and an input resistor (Ri). The op-amp is configured as an inverting amplifier. The input signal is applied to the inverting input of the op-amp, and the feedback resistor is connected between the output of the op-amp and the non-inverting input.

The output voltage of the antilog amplifier is given by:

$$V_{out} = -V_{in} \cdot 10^{\frac{R_f}{R_i}}$$

where:

  • $$V_{out}$$ is the output voltage
  • $$V_{in}$$ is the input voltage
  • $$R_f$$ is the feedback resistor
  • $$R_i$$ is the input resistor

The exponential function in the output voltage equation expands the narrow range of input signals into a wider range of output signals. This is because the exponential function has a larger slope for larger input values.

Applications of Log and Antilog Amplifiers

Log and antilog amplifiers are used in a variety of applications, including:

  • Audio compression
  • Signal conditioning
  • Instrumentation
  • Control systems
  • Medical electronics