Physics Electronics PMDC Conceptual Practice
PMDC Verified Question 266 of 494
What is the primary function of a positive clamper circuit in signal processing?
A
To shift the entire AC input waveform upward so that its negative peaks align with a reference DC level (e.g., 0 V)
B
To clip and remove all positive half-cycles of the input wave
C
To double the frequency of the input signal
D
To convert an AC sine wave into a pure triangular wave
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option A: To shift the entire AC input waveform upward so that its negative peaks align with a reference DC level (e.g., 0 V)
Concept:

A positive clamper uses a diode, capacitor, and resistor to add a positive DC offset to an AC input signal, shifting the entire waveform upward so that its negative peaks sit at a specified DC reference voltage (typically 0 V).

Formula:

$$V_{\text{out}}(t) = V_{\text{in}}(t) + V_m \implies V_{\text{out,min}} = 0\text{ V}, \quad V_{\text{out,max}} = +2V_m$$

Solution:

  • During the initial negative peak, the diode conducts and charges the series capacitor to \( V_m \).


  • On subsequent cycles, the charged capacitor acts as a series DC battery of value \( +V_m \), shifting the waveform upward.


  • The peak-to-peak amplitude (\( 2V_m \)) is preserved, but the entire signal is shifted into the positive voltage domain.


Why other options are incorrect:

  • Option B: Clipping is performed by clipper circuits, not clampers.
  • Option C: Frequency doubling occurs in full-wave rectifiers, not clampers.
  • Option D: Sine-to-triangle conversion is performed by integrator circuits.

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