Online Design Tool Speeds Amplifier Evaluation

Called a "virtual evaluation board," a new parametric tool for amplifiers enables system designers to select, evaluate and troubleshoot the company's voltage feedback op amps. By using parametric data to mathematically model the general behavior of a selected amplifier, designers can select a component, quickly configure a circuit, apply a signal and evaluate the amplifier's general performance. Once a circuit has been set, a designer can request a list of the company's amplifiers that would best fit the design and then evaluate each component separately to determine which device best suits the design. Separately, interactive message flags issue a series of warnings if a circuit configuration may lead to damage of an amplifier, if the circuit yields degraded performance or if there is an issue the designer should simply be made aware of. In addition, a selection Wizard is offered for less experienced designers who may require additional help choosing an amplifier. This particular option determines circuit configuration and component values and provides suggested amplifiers for a particular circuit design. The op amp evaluation tool is powered by National Instruments LabVIEW, which provides a familiar graphical user interface (GUI) and processes related computational tasks. The tool, available to users at no charge, is accessible in real-time on the company's web site and requires no software download. It can be accessed at URL below. ANALOG DEVICES INC., Wilmington, MA. (800) 262-5643.