Homework Problems based on Differen al Amplifiers (Problem Set 1)

Microelectronic Circuits (ECE/EEE/INSTR F244)

Problem 1.)

For the MOS differential pair with a common-mode voltage Vcm, applied, as
shown in the reference figure below. Let VDD = VSS = 1.5 V, Kn’(W/L) = 4
mA/V², Vt = 0.5 V, I = 0.4 mA. and RD = 2.5 kΩ, and neglect channel-length
modulation.
(a) Find Vov and Vos for each transistor.
(b) For common voltage Vcm = 0V. Find Vs, iD1, iD2, VD1, and VD2.
(c) Repeat (b) for common mode voltage of 1V.

Problem 2.)

Consider the NMOS differential pair illustrated in the figure shown below,
under the conditions that I = 100 µA, using FETs for which K'n(W/L) = 400
A/V², and Vt = 1 V. (Image in next page)
a.) What is the voltage on the common-source connection for v G1 = vG2 = 0V?
and 2V? What is the relation between the drain currents in each of these
situations.
b.) Now for vG2 = 0 V, at what voltages must vG1 be placed to reduce iD2 by
10%? and to increase iD2 by 10%?
c.) For the current ratio iD1/iD2 = 20.0, what differential input is required?
Problem 3.)

An NMOS differential amplifier is operated at a bias current I of 0.5 mA and

has a (W/L) ratio of 50, µinCox = 250 µA/V², VA = 10 V, and RD = 4 kΩ. Find
Vov, gm, r0 and Ad.
Problem 4.)
A design error has resulted in a gross mismatch in the circuit shown below.
Specifically, Q2 has twice the W/L ratio of Q1. If vid is a small sine-wave signal,
find:
(a) ID1 and ID2.
(b) Vov for each of Q1 and Q2.
(c) The differential gain Ad in terms of RD, I, and VOV.
Problem 5.)

An NMOS differential pair is biased by a current source I = 0.2 mA having an

output resistance RSS = 100 kΩ. The amplifier has drain resistances RD = 10
kΩ, using transistors with K'n (W/L) = 3 mA/V², and r0 that is large. If the
output is taken single-endedly, find |Ad|, |Acm| and CMRR.

END OF QUESTIONS
 SOLUTIONS
Solution to Problem 1.)
Solution to Problem 2.)
Solution to Problem 3.)
Solution to Problem 4.)
Solution to Problem 5.)