Class B amplifiers are a type of electronic amplifier that are characterized by having their output transistors turned on for only half of the input signal cycle. This makes them more efficient than class A amplifiers, which are turned on for the entire input signal cycle. However, class B amplifiers also suffer from a disadvantage known as crossover distortion.
Crossover distortion occurs when the output transistors are turned on at different times during the input signal cycle. This can cause a clicking or popping sound in the output signal, and it can also reduce the overall fidelity of the audio.
There are a few ways to reduce crossover distortion in class B amplifiers. One way is to use complementary transistors. Complementary transistors are pairs of transistors that have opposite characteristics. This means that one transistor will be turned on when the other transistor is turned off, which helps to reduce crossover distortion.
Another way to reduce crossover distortion is to use a bias circuit. A bias circuit is used to apply a small amount of current to the output transistors, even when they are not conducting. This helps to keep the transistors in a state where they are more likely to turn on at the same time.
Despite the disadvantage of crossover distortion, class B amplifiers are still a popular choice for many applications. They are relatively efficient and can provide a lot of power output. Class B amplifiers are often used in audio amplifiers, radio transmitters, and power supplies.
Here are some additional points that you can include in your article:
- Class B amplifiers are more efficient than class A amplifiers because they only dissipate power when they are conducting.
- The crossover distortion in class B amplifiers can be reduced by using complementary transistors or a bias circuit.
- Class B amplifiers are often used in audio amplifiers because they can provide a lot of power output without sacrificing too much fidelity.
- Class B amplifiers are also used in radio transmitters and power supplies.
