Discrete Op Amp clipping behavior
Posted: Fri Jul 15, 2022 9:35 am
I'm working on a simple discrete Class-A op amp. This isn't the first time I have worked on a discrete amplifier but there is a clipping behavior I would like to dig into this time.
The amplifier design is simple - run of the mill input differential pair, single transistor VAS (active or bootstrap load doesn't seem to matter), and single transistor emitter follower output with active load.
When pushing signal beyond initial voltage rail clipping the output signal starts to flip over to the opposite rail. I'm sorry if this is a poor description.
I'm sure there is a term for this behavior but I don't know it. If I knew the term I would search for it.
I don't recall this type of behavior with any IC op amp that I have used. Is this something that is just inherent with discrete amplifiers? Is there anything that can be done about this behavior?
Again, sorry if this is a poor description. I can provide more information if needed.
The amplifier design is simple - run of the mill input differential pair, single transistor VAS (active or bootstrap load doesn't seem to matter), and single transistor emitter follower output with active load.
When pushing signal beyond initial voltage rail clipping the output signal starts to flip over to the opposite rail. I'm sorry if this is a poor description.
I'm sure there is a term for this behavior but I don't know it. If I knew the term I would search for it.
I don't recall this type of behavior with any IC op amp that I have used. Is this something that is just inherent with discrete amplifiers? Is there anything that can be done about this behavior?
Again, sorry if this is a poor description. I can provide more information if needed.