Buffers and drivers both provide impedance transformation between the input and output. The differences begin to appear when looking at the common types of buffers and drivers, for example, voltage and current buffers, clock buffers, line drivers, and gate drivers. Basic buffers and drivers have one input and one output, but there are others that […]
How to specify and use analog switches
An analog switch is an IC that can be used to control connections to analog and digital signals. These switches provide bidirectional connections when “on” and high impedance paths when “off.” There’s a wide range of analog switches for special functions. In some instances, they are used in place of mechanical switches. In other embodiments, […]
How do comparators and op amps compare?
Operational amplifiers (op amps) and comparators have two inputs, inverting and noninverting, and an output that can usually swing from rail to rail and have the same schematic symbol. So, what’s the difference? This FAQ compares the two devices and digs into some of the similarities and differences. It begins with a top-level comparison of […]
How to specify and use voltage references
Voltage references are small components that can have a significant impact, either positive or negative, on system performance. They are precision devices that maintain a constant voltage output even in the presence of changes in temperature, input voltage, and other external parameters. When measuring the analog world, voltage references ensure that data converters, detection circuits, […]
What’s the difference between transceivers and transponders?
Transceivers and transponders are types of communication devices. They can operate with RF or optical technologies. They are used in various environments, from terrestrial to undersea and outer space. Basic transceivers and transponders provide two-way links in various types of networks. Specialized devices like muxponders increase available bandwidth, extend network reach and improve network efficiency. […]
What causes signal attenuation in a PCB and how can it be controlled?
Except for the most basic designs, system clock rates are inexorably creeping upward across a wide range of applications, from 5G telephony to automotive advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), medical, industrial, and mil/aero systems. As frequencies rise into the GHz range, the need for impedance control to minimize signal attenuation and protect signal integrity gets […]
When to filter, attenuate, and equalize signals
Signal chain management is important in various applications like medical imaging, 5G communications, advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), and a range of consumer, industrial, and military devices. Filters, attenuators, and equalizers are some of the tools designers have available to optimize signal chain operation. This FAQ begins by looking briefly at the definition of decibels […]
Optical attenuators and loopbacks, what’s the difference?
Fiber optic attenuators (optical attenuators) are used to reduce or control the energy of optical signals. They are used in optical communications systems to protect sensitive receivers or to modulate signals and for engineering evaluation, testing, and system validation. This FAQ reviews the basic operation of optical attenuators, looks at practical applications for optical attenuators, […]
Why use attenuators in quantum computers?
Quantum computers are cryogenically cooled because their quantum bits (qubits) are extremely delicate and sensitive to disruptions from even minute amounts of thermal noise, such as Johnson-Nyquist (J-N) noise. J-N noise is generated by the thermal agitation of electrons, regardless of any applied voltage, when the conductor is at equilibrium. Even small amounts of J-N […]
What kinds of attenuators are there?
Attenuators are often defined as electronic devices that reduce the power of a signal without introducing significant distortion. While that’s not incorrect, it’s also not complete. For example, optical attenuators can be based on fixed or variable neutral density (ND) filters and are largely mechanical constructions. This FAQ considers basic types of electronic attenuators. Other […]
