 Amplifier output range

The amplifier output range is the interval over which an electronic amplifier can provide the specified output behavior under stated supply, load and operating conditions. Its limits need not coincide with the power-supply potentials. The historical integrator datasheet lists output range and output-current conditions separately from its supply conditions.^[ref]

For an original linear model, let $v_o=V_{\mathrm{ref}}+G{v}_i$ with positive gain. Avoiding static clipping requiresStipulate a $0$–$5\mathrm{V}$ supply, usable output limits $0.2$–$4.6\mathrm{V}$, $V_{\mathrm{ref}}=2.0\mathrm{V}$ and $G=200$. The permitted differential input interval is $-9$ to $13\mathrm{mV}$. A positive $12\mathrm{mV}$ input predicts $4.4\mathrm{V}$ and fits; a negative $12\mathrm{mV}$ input predicts $-0.4\mathrm{V}$ and does not.

These are stipulated limits, not a product guarantee. The amplifier output headroom relative to each supply can differ. Loading can change the available output swing, and input-stage saturation can occur even when the final ideal output lies inside its range. A slow input sweep identifies the static departure from linear gain; a pulse test additionally probes dynamic recovery. Amplifier clipping describes the waveform consequence of exceeding these limits.