How to stabilize transimpedance amp

Transimpedance amplifiers (TIAs) are widely employed to translate the current output of sensors such as photodiode-to-voltage signals, since many circuits and instruments can only accept voltage input. An operational amplifier with a feedback resistor from output to the inverting input is the most straightforward implementation of such a TIA. However, even this simple TIA circuit requires careful tradeoffs among noise gain, offset voltage, bandwidth, and stability. Clearly stability in a TIA is essential for good, reliable performance. This application note explains the empirical calculations for assessing stability and then shows how to fine-tune the selection of the feedback phase-compensation capacitor.

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Originally published by Maxim Integrated Products at www.maxim-ic.com as "Stabilize Your Transimpedance Amplifier".