| OVERVIEW
This is a simple design tool for calculating bias resistor values,
small-signal gain and input/output resistances of an emitter follower BJT amplifier.
The emitter follower is typically used as a buffer, which provides
high input impedance and low output impedance.
Just fill the input fields below in given order from top to bottom.
The ordering of the fields
serves as a step-by-step guide for the design process.
The base bias resistor values are calculated automatically (using 5% tolerance resistances),
but custom values can be given and those will not be overwritten.
After iterating any resistance value, always press 'Calculate results' button to update the results.
The small-signal values are evaluated in the mid-band, CB short-circuited.
The small-signal gain is evaluated as VO/VS, and the input/output
resistances are evaluated as shown in the pic. |
 |
| Select the operating voltage VCC. Typically 9 volts is the way to go. |
VCC: |
volts |
RESULTS
DC Bias voltages:
VC : volts
VE : volts
VB : volts
AC Voltage Gain factor:
Av : const
dB
AC Input resistance:
Ri : ohms
AC Output resistance:
Ro : ohms
|
| Select the BJT you want to use, from its datasheet
lookup the current gain factor and place it here as a parameter. |
hFE: |
const |
| For convenience, you can change the base-emitter voltage,
which is set to 0.65 V by default.
Typical VBE is 0.55 - 0.75 V. |
VBE: |
volts |
| Choose the emitter bias voltage to aim for.
Typically the collector bias voltage is half of the operating voltage VCC. |
VE: |
volts |
| Choose the emitter resistor RE for better bias stability and input impedance.
The value of RE affects the base bias resistor values and input impedance. |
RE: |
ohms |
| A multiplier for base resistor values, which are obtained in the next step.
Too much resistance at the base affects the stability of biasing.
Use values between 4 - 16. |
Bx: |
const |
Use 'Calculate values' button to evaluate exact values for base resistors.
Then use the arrow buttons to round up or down to nearest standard value, or leave as is.
|
RB1:
RB2:
|
ohms
ohms
|
| Also, the internal resistance of the signal source should be given.
For ideal source this value is small,
but for guitar output this is a few kilohms. |
RS : |
ohms |
|