Power amplifiers are classified into different classes (A, B, C, AB) primarily
based on their biasing condition (Q-point) and the conduction angle,
which determines how much of the input signal cycle the transistor conducts
current
1. Class A Amplifier
Definition (Deffain): The transistor is biased in the center of its active region (Q-point is at the
midpoint). The output current flows for the entire cycle of the input signal (360∘ conduction).
The transistor never turns "OFF."
Advantages:
o High Linearity: It produces the most faithful reproduction of the input signal.
o Low Distortion: There is no crossover distortion because the transistor is always
conducting.
o Simplicity: Simple circuit design (often uses a single transistor).
Disadvantages (DS advantage):
o Very Low Efficiency: Maximum theoretical efficiency is only 25% (or 50% with
a transformer).
o High Heat Dissipation: It consumes power even when there is no input signal,
causing the transistor to get very hot.
o Bulky: Requires large heat sinks.
2. Class B Amplifier
Definition (Deffain): The transistor is biased exactly at the cut-off point. The transistor
conducts current for only one-half of the input signal cycle (180∘ conduction). To amplify the
full wave, two transistors (Push-Pull configuration) are usually used—one for the positive half
and one for the negative half.
Advantages:
o Higher Efficiency: Much better than Class A, with a theoretical maximum of
78.5%.
o No Idle Power: Consumes negligible power when there is no input signal.
Disadvantages (DS advantage):
o Crossover Distortion: A "dead zone" occurs when the signal crosses zero
because transistors need a small voltage (approx 0.7V) to turn on.
o Requires Matched Transistors: Needs two perfectly matched transistors for the
push-pull circuit.
3. Class AB Amplifier
Definition (Deffain): This is a mix of Class A and Class B. The transistor is biased slightly
above the cut-off point. The current flows for slightly more than half the cycle (between 180∘
and 360∘).
Advantages:
o Eliminates Crossover Distortion: The slight pre-biasing ensures the transistor is
"ready" to conduct, solving the main problem of Class B.
o Good Compromise: Offers better efficiency than Class A and better linearity
than Class B. This is the most common class for audio amplifiers.
Disadvantages (DS advantage):
o Lower Efficiency than Class B: Because there is a small idle current constantly
flowing.
o Complexity: Biasing components (like diodes or resistors) are needed to set the
precise operating point.
4. Class C Amplifier
Definition (Deffain): The transistor is biased well beyond the cut-off point. The current flows
for less than half of the input cycle (<180∘, typically around 120∘ or less). It outputs pulses
rather than a continuous wave.
Advantages:
o Highest Efficiency: Can achieve efficiencies greater than 90% because the
transistor is OFF for most of the cycle.
o Low Power Loss: Excellent for high-power applications where heat must be
minimized.
Disadvantages (DS advantage):
o High Distortion: The output is not a linear replica of the input (it is a series of
pulses).
o Limited Use: Not suitable for audio; primarily used in Radio Frequency (RF)
transmitters where a tuned tank circuit (LC circuit) restores the sine wave.
Comparison (Different)
The table below highlights the key differences between these classes.
Parameter Class A Class B Class AB Class C
Biasing (Q- Center of Slightly
At Cut-off Below Cut-off
Point) Load Line above Cut-off
Conduction 360∘ (Full 180∘ (Half
180∘ - 360∘ <180∘
Angle Cycle) Cycle)
Signal Highest (Best Low (Crossover
Good Worst (Pulses)
Linearity Audio) issue)
Lowest (25% Medium (50%
Efficiency High (78.5%) Highest (> 90%)
- 50%) - 70%)
Distortion Minimal High (Crossover) Low Very High
Battery
Typical Low power High Fidelity RF
operated
Application Audio Audio Communications
devices
