Operational Amplifier
(Op Amp)
Operational Amplifier (or Op Amp) is an component that can not only increase (or amplify) a certain voltage, but the component can also be used to compare other circuitry. It does that by using two inputs, which are called "Non-inverting" (+) and "Inverting" (-). The output will display the outcome of the two inputs.
Figure 1: Op Amp Symbol
Source: All About Circuits
The TL074 Op Amp IC is what was used for a certain project during university and what will be used for in upcoming projects. The IC has 4 Op Amp's that has a supply voltage of 40V, which means that the IC is very versatile in that aspect.
Figure 2: Quad Op Amp IC
Source: Microcontrollers labs
Comparator Circuit
In this practical example, the TL074 Quad Op Amp IC will represent as a comparator, where the Op Amp will compare the resistance and react accordingly. In order to accomplish this, the circuit would need resisters and an LED as an output.
Figure 3: Op Amp as a comparator
Source: All About Circuits
The Schematic
Figure 2 shows the schematic of the TL074 being used as a comparator. The "Non-inverting" input is connected to a 10k Potentiometer, which will determine whether the signal is HIGH or LOW. The "Inverting" input is connected to a fixed 1K resister, while the output is connected to the LED.
Figure 4: Comparator Circuit
Amplifier Circuit
In this practical experiment, the TL074 Quad Op Amp IC will represent as a amplifier, in which the Op Amp will increase the voltage from 2V (which will come from the Power Supply) up to 4V. To power the IC. I've added a boost converter module (MT3608), which is powered through the supply.
Figure 5: Amplifier Circuit
Testing
Lastly, figure 3 shows the circuitry on both as a amplifier and as a comparator.
