The Power Amplifier (PAMP) was designed to produce both DC and AC output voltages by taking advantage of both channels of a 3.5 mm audio cable, the cable it ships with and with which you connect the Power Amplifier to a LabQuest interface. A typical 3.5 mm audio cable has three connectors: the tip, ring, and sleeve. The Power Amplifier and LabQuest use the sleeve for ground. The tip and ring are used for:

  • Tip: Output signal with an overall gain 10X
  • Ring: Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signal input producing a DC offset or pure DC output with a LabQuest

Note: Because of this design arrangement, when driving the Power Ampilfier with signal other than LabQuest, use a mono audio cable so the PWM input on the ring will be grounded. Using a stereo audio connector may enable the PWM features of the Power Amplifier with undesirable results.

Related TILs
Power Amplifier Troubleshooting and FAQs