Simulation and modelling: macromodeling of operational amplifiers

In this issue we feature a contribution from the University of Idaho's Electrical Engineering Department. Professor Kenneth Noren and graduate student Ahmad Tarakji describe a systematic approach to macromodelling of operational amplifiers. Even though op-amp macromodels have been around since the early 1980's, there is still room for improvement and refinement of techniques for modeling op-amps. The proposed methodology is quite general and can be used to generate amplifier models with varying degrees of complexity, ranging from the simple ideal op-amp model, to complex and complete models for the off-the-shelf components. A macromodel is an electrical equivalent circuit for an IC or circuit for use in computer simulations.