Modular Assessment for Module 3:

1. Define the following:

 Decibel
 Logarithm
 Low frequency response of an amplifier
 High frequency response of an amplifier

A decibel (dB) is a numerical expression of the relative differences in power levels of

electrical signals equal to ten times the common logarithm of the ratio of the two signal powers.
Sometimes an absolute reference is used in the power ratio (10-16 watt per sq cm in acoustics,
one milliwatt in electronics and radio)

Logarithms are frequently employed in electronics for a variety of purposes, particularly

in signal processing and circuit analysis. In some situations, the logarithm function makes
complicated mathematical relationships simpler and enables simpler calculations.
The output voltage of an amplifier experiences fluctuations with signal frequency as a result of
variations in the circuit capacitive reactance.

The frequency response of an amplifier is the curve depicting the relationship between
voltage gain and signal frequency. At low frequencies, the voltage gains fall because the
coupling and bypass capacitors no longer act like short circuits. Instead, their capacitive
reactances are large enough to drop some of the ac signal voltage. The result is a loss of voltage
gain as we approach zero hertz (0 Hz). At high frequencies, the voltage gain falls for other
reasons. All transistors have capacitances between their terminals, known as internal
capacitances, as illustrated in Fig. 15.3 (a). These capacitances provide bypass path for the ac
signal. With the increase in frequency, capacitive reactances become low enough (XC α 1/f) to
prevent normal transistor action. The result is a loss of voltage gain.

2. Discuss miller effect capacitance

A fundamental electrical phenomenon connected to feedback circuits is called the Miller

effect. It can happen unintentionally in amplifiers due to parasitic capacitance, but it can also be
employed in circuits that double capacitance and resistance. This undesirable appearance of the
Miller effect is a nuisance to wideband amplifier designers, but can be put to good use in
capacitance multiplier circuits using op-amps. Timing circuits with long time-outs often require
large capacitors. For accurate timing, these capacitors are plastic. Large-value plastic capacitors
are volumetrically large and expensive.