Bad Circuits


Bad Full-wave Recitifier

This circuit is one of AutoTrax software examples. It shows a bad connection that should not be recreated in real life.

bad full-wave rectifier
bad full-wave rectifier
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The high voltage difference between two oscilloscope terminals could be well above the maximum specified limits. Thus the oscilloscope will fail with a bang.


Bad EEG Pre-amplifier

bad eeg amplifier
bad eeg amplifier
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This EEG pre-amplifier is made to amplify very low signals from human brain. The problems with this circuits include:
1. 741 is a general purpose operational amplifier. High precision Op-Amps/instrumentation amplifiers with low noise levels should be used (eg. INA101).
2. The resistors are not matched. 1% will not be enough the create the very high amplifier common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) that is needed for medical instrumentation.
3. The pre-amplifier is not isolated with an opto-coupler. A power surge can electrocute the user.