1.1.3 The Practical Op-Amp
Although integrated circuit (IC) op-amps approach parameter values that can be treated as ideal in many cases, the ideal device can never be made. Any device has limitations, and the IC op-amp is no exception. Op-amps have both voltage and current limitations. Peak- to-peak output voltage, for example, is usually limited to slightly less than the two supply voltages. Output current is also limited by internal restrictions such as power dissipation and component ratings. Characteristics of a practical op-amp are very high voltage gain, very high input impedance, very low output impedance, and wide bandwidth. Three of these are labeled in Figure 2(b).