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Inverting Op-Amp Gain Formula:
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The inverting operational amplifier configuration produces an output signal that is 180 degrees out of phase with the input signal. The gain determines how much the input signal is amplified and inverted by the circuit.
The calculator uses the inverting op-amp gain formula:
Where:
Explanation: The gain is determined solely by the ratio of the feedback resistor to the input resistor. The negative sign indicates that the output signal is inverted relative to the input.
Details: Accurate gain calculation is essential for designing audio amplifiers, signal processing circuits, instrumentation amplifiers, and various analog electronic systems where precise signal amplification is required.
Tips: Enter both resistance values in ohms. Ensure values are positive and non-zero. The calculator will compute the gain as a unitless ratio with proper sign indication.
Q1: Why is the gain negative?
A: The negative sign indicates that the output signal is inverted (180° phase shift) relative to the input signal, which is characteristic of inverting amplifier configurations.
Q2: What are typical resistance values used?
A: Common values range from 1kΩ to 1MΩ, depending on application requirements. Values are often chosen to provide desired gain while maintaining circuit stability.
Q3: Can the gain be less than 1?
A: Yes, when Rf is smaller than Rin, the gain magnitude is less than 1, creating an attenuator with signal inversion.
Q4: What are the limitations of this formula?
A: This assumes ideal op-amp conditions (infinite input impedance, zero output impedance, infinite gain). Real op-amps have limitations that may affect performance at high frequencies or with very high gains.
Q5: How does this differ from non-inverting amplifier gain?
A: Non-inverting amplifiers use the formula Gain = 1 + Rf/Rin and do not invert the signal phase, providing positive gain without signal inversion.