Differential Amplifier Calculator Formula

Understand the math behind the differential amplifier calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.

Formulas Used

Differential Gain

diff_gain = rf_kohm / r1_kohm

Output Voltage

v_output = (rf_kohm / r1_kohm) * (v1 - v2)

Differential Input

diff_input = v1 - v2

Variables

VariableDescriptionDefault
v1Non-Inverting Input (V1)(V)3
v2Inverting Input (V2)(V)1
r1_kohmR1 (Input Resistors)()10
rf_kohmRf (Feedback Resistors)()50

How It Works

Differential Amplifier

Amplifies the difference between two inputs while rejecting common-mode signals.

Formula (matched resistors)

V_out = (Rf / R1) x (V1 - V2)

Requires R1 = R2 and Rf = Rg for proper common-mode rejection.

Worked Example

V1 = 3 V, V2 = 1 V, R1 = 10k, Rf = 50k.

v1 = 3v2 = 1r1_kohm = 10rf_kohm = 50
  1. 01Gain = 50 / 10 = 5 V/V
  2. 02Differential input = 3 - 1 = 2 V
  3. 03V_out = 5 x 2 = 10 V