Connecting Dual Supply Opamps in a Single Supply Circuit with Transistors

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of dual supply opamps in a circuit with single supply lm324, along with PNP and NPN transistors. The suggestion is made to use a precision band gap reference to generate a virtual ground. Factors such as precision, frequency range, and available power rails are mentioned as considerations for implementing this solution. The use of a "virtual ground" with a resistor divider and unity gain op-amp buffer is also suggested, along with bypassing the virtual ground with a capacitor.
  • #1
m718
88
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I have a circuit with single supply lm324 and I need to replace them with precision opamps but I can only get dual supply ones. How would I connect the dual supply opamps in the circuit?
(the circuit also has PNP and NPN transistors).
 
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  • #2
Use a precision band gap reference to generate a virtual ground if feasible. They come in several flavors, 1.23V, 2.5V, 5.0V, etc.

Exactly how you can implement what you want depends on a lot of factors, like how much precision, what frequency range, where does the precision have to be, etc.
 
  • #3
What power rails do you have available? Why can't you get single-supply CMOS opamps? Have you done much searching? What voltage range is your signal, and what kind of gain/functionality are you using the opamp for?
 
  • #4
For single supply operation, I usually make a "virtual ground." Make a resistor divider from Vcc to ground and bypass it with a cap to ground (2x100K resistors and a .1uF). Then, follow it with a unity gain op-amp buffer (use a cheap op amp).

Put a 33 ohm resistor between the output of the op-amp and the "virtual ground," and bypass the virtual ground to real round with a 47 - 100uF cap.

There are cheaper ways, and there are better ways, but you can usually depend on this method without taking more into consideration.

- Mike
 

Related to Connecting Dual Supply Opamps in a Single Supply Circuit with Transistors

What is the purpose of connecting dual supply opamps in a single supply circuit with transistors?

The purpose of this configuration is to allow for the use of a dual supply opamp in a single supply circuit. This is useful when the circuit only has a single power supply available, or when the desired output voltage range is not achievable with a single supply opamp.

How does connecting transistors to a dual supply opamp in a single supply circuit work?

The transistors are used to create a virtual ground, which is necessary for the dual supply opamp to function properly. The transistors act as voltage followers, replicating the input voltage at the output but with a different reference point. This allows the opamp to operate with a single supply.

What are the advantages of using this configuration?

One advantage is that it allows for the use of a wider range of opamps, including those that require a dual supply. It also allows for a wider output voltage range, as the virtual ground created by the transistors can be adjusted to the desired level.

Are there any drawbacks to using this configuration?

One potential drawback is that the addition of transistors can introduce more noise into the circuit, which can affect the overall performance. Careful design and selection of components can help minimize this issue.

Are there any special considerations when designing a circuit with this configuration?

Yes, there are a few things to keep in mind when designing a circuit with this configuration. First, the transistors used should have a high input impedance and low output impedance to minimize the noise and distortion. It is also important to properly bias the transistors to ensure proper operation. Additionally, the output voltage range should be carefully chosen and tested to ensure it meets the requirements of the circuit.

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