Early operational amplifiers (op-amps) were used primarily to perform mathematical
operations such as addition, subtraction, integration, and differentiation-thus the term
operational. These early devices were constructed with vacuum tubes and worked with high voltages. Today's op-amps are linear integrated circuits (ICs) that use relatively low de supply voltages and are reliable and inexpensive.
After completing this section, you should be able to
1. . Describe the basic op-amp and its characteristics
2. . Recognize the op-amp symbol
3. . Identify the terminals on op-amp packages
4. . Describe the ideal op-amp
5. . Describe the practical op-amp