Understanding how an operational amplifier works is essential to grasp how many electronic circuits work, from audio gear to control systems and many more. In this Elektor video, we offer a clear and structured explanation of the op-amp’s behavior and its applications. Whether you're just starting out in electronics or brushing up your knowledge, this will help understand key concepts that are not likely to go out of style anytime soon.

So, what is an op-amp, in the first place? The video explains it, what its inputs and outputs do, and how its near-infinite gain leads to useful simplifications in circuit analysis. The video then introduces the possible uses for op-amps, including the comparator, and explains how negative feedback can be used. Both inverting and non-inverting amplifiers are covered with clear examples, walking you through the effects of feedback, and how simple calculations can be used to determine gain. By the way, do you know the origin of the “operational” in the “operational amplifier” name?

Watch the video below, and speaking of feedback, don’t forget to give us yours in the comment section below or on YouTube! Elektor has many other educational videos like this one, so feel free to explore our YouTube channel for more educational content.

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