Power amplifiers are classified into several major types based on their circuit configuration, operating class, and intended application. One common classification is based on the operating class of the amplifier. Class A, Class B, Class AB, Class D, and Class H are the primary types of power amplifiers. Class A amplifiers are known for their low distortion but low efficiency, as they operate with a continuous current through the output devices. Class B amplifiers are more efficient but have higher crossover distortion, as they use two complementary transistors that conduct during opposite halves of the input signal cycle. Class AB amplifiers combine features of Class A and Class B, offering improved efficiency and reduced distortion compared to Class A. Class D amplifiers use pulse-width modulation to achieve high efficiency, making them suitable for applications requiring high power output with minimal heat dissipation. Class H amplifiers improve efficiency further by dynamically adjusting the supply voltage based on the input signal, reducing power dissipation.
There are several types of power amplifiers categorized based on their operational characteristics, circuit design, and intended application. The most common types include Class A, Class B, and Class AB amplifiers. Class A amplifiers operate by conducting current through the output devices continuously, providing low distortion but lower efficiency due to constant power consumption regardless of the input signal level. Class B amplifiers use two complementary transistors to handle positive and negative halves of the input signal, achieving higher efficiency but with potential crossover distortion at low signal levels. Class AB amplifiers combine features of Class A and Class B designs, offering improved efficiency and reduced distortion compared to pure Class A or Class B amplifiers, making them suitable for audio applications requiring both power and fidelity.
Power amplifiers are classified based on their operating characteristics and design configuration. The classification typically includes different amplifier classes such as Class A, Class B, Class AB, Class D, and Class H. Each class of amplifier has distinct characteristics in terms of efficiency, distortion levels, and suitability for various applications. Class A amplifiers are known for low distortion but lower efficiency due to continuous current flow through the output devices. Class B amplifiers achieve higher efficiency by using two transistors to handle opposite halves of the input signal but may suffer from crossover distortion. Class AB amplifiers combine features of Class A and Class B, offering improved efficiency and reduced distortion. Class D amplifiers use pulse-width modulation to achieve high efficiency, suitable for applications requiring high power with minimal heat dissipation. Class H amplifiers improve efficiency further by dynamically adjusting the supply voltage, minimizing power dissipation while maintaining performance.
The most common type of amplifier depends on the application and requirements, but Class AB amplifiers are widely used in audio and general-purpose applications due to their balanced performance between efficiency and distortion. Class AB amplifiers offer higher efficiency than Class A amplifiers while maintaining low distortion levels, making them suitable for a wide range of applications from audio amplification to telecommunications and industrial applications. Their versatility, reliability, and cost-effectiveness make Class AB amplifiers a popular choice in various electronic systems where both performance and efficiency are essential considerations.