Analyzing circuits with multiple ideal operational amplifiers (op-amps) using ideal op-amp rules involves simplifying the circuit and applying specific guidelines that arise from the ideal op-amp assumptions. Here's a step-by-step approach to analyzing such circuits:
Ideal Op-Amp Assumptions:
Infinite open-loop gain (AOL).
Infinite input impedance.
Zero output impedance.
Zero input current (inverting and non-inverting inputs).
Infinite bandwidth (can respond to any frequency).
Perfect common-mode rejection (ignores common-mode signals).
Step-by-Step Analysis:
Identify the Circuit Configuration: Determine the configuration of the op-amps in the circuit (e.g., inverting amplifier, non-inverting amplifier, difference amplifier, etc.).
Apply Ideal Op-Amp Rules: For each op-amp in the circuit, apply the following ideal op-amp rules:
The voltage between the inverting and non-inverting inputs (V- and V+) is virtually zero due to infinite AOL.
No current flows into the op-amp inputs (zero input current).
The output attempts to do whatever is necessary to make the inputs equal (virtual short between V- and V+).
Use Virtual Short Rule: Treat the input terminals of each op-amp as if they are connected together, creating a virtual short. This allows you to write expressions for the voltages at the input terminals of the op-amp, simplifying the analysis.
Analyze Each Op-Amp Configuration:
Inverting Amplifier: Apply the virtual short rule and the inverting amplifier equation: Vout = -Rf/Rin * Vin-, where Vin- is the voltage at the inverting input terminal.
Non-Inverting Amplifier: Apply the virtual short rule and the non-inverting amplifier equation: Vout = (1 + Rf/Rin) * Vin+, where Vin+ is the voltage at the non-inverting input terminal.
Difference Amplifier: Consider the voltage difference between the inverting and non-inverting inputs and use the difference amplifier equation: Vout = (Rf/Rin) * (Vin+ - Vin-).
Combine Op-Amp Outputs: If the outputs of multiple op-amps are interconnected, you can treat them as algebraic quantities and combine them according to circuit connections.
Simplify the Circuit: Combine resistors in series and parallel as needed, and simplify the circuit as much as possible.
Check for Stability: Ensure that the circuit is stable by verifying that the conditions for positive feedback (inverting signal becomes non-inverting and vice versa) are not met.
Calculate Final Output: Calculate the final output voltage based on the simplified circuit and the relationships established in steps 4 and 5.
Remember, while the ideal op-amp rules provide a good starting point for analysis, real-world op-amps have limitations that may lead to deviations from the ideal behavior. In practical scenarios, factors like finite bandwidth, input bias currents, and output saturation need to be considered for accurate analysis.