Consider the circuit with an ideal OPAMP shown in the figure.
Assuming |VIN| << |VCC| and |VREF| << |VCC|, determine the condition at which VOUT = 0.
Options:
- VIN = VREF
- VIN = 0.5 VREF
- VIN = 2 VREF
- VIN = 2 + VREF
Solution
Step 1: Identify the Op-Amp Configuration
The non-inverting terminal (+) is connected to ground. Therefore,
V+ = 0 V
Since the op-amp is ideal and operates with negative feedback, the inverting terminal is also at virtual ground.
V- = V+ = 0 V
Step 2: Apply KCL at the Inverting Node
Three currents meet at the inverting input:
- Current from VIN
- Current from VREF
- Feedback current through RF
Current due to VIN
I1 =
(VIN - 0)/R
=
VIN/R
Current due to VREF
Observe the polarity of the VREF source. Its positive terminal is connected to ground. Hence the resistor is connected to a voltage of -VREF.
I2 =
(-VREF - 0)/R
=
- VREF/R
Feedback current
IF
=
(0 - VOUT)/RF
=
- VOUT/RF
Step 3: Apply Kirchhoff's Current Law
I1 + I2 + IF = 0
Substituting the current expressions,
VIN/R
−
VREF/R
−
VOUT/RF
=
0
Rearranging,
VOUT
=
−
(RF/R)
(VIN − VREF)
Step 4: Condition for Zero Output
For
VOUT = 0
we obtain
VIN − VREF = 0
Therefore,
VIN = VREF
Correct Option: (A) VIN = VREF