Simple square-rooting circuit using OTAs

Abstract

A method to implement a square-rooting circuit is described. The proposed circuit employs operational transconductance amplifiers (OTAs) as the only active elements. The implementation technique is based on an electronically variable resistor formed by the OTA, where the magnitude of the resistance is controlled by the output current, to provide the square-rooting function. The proposed scheme can operate with both a voltage input and a current input signal. The purpose of the circuit is emphasised in terms of simple configuration, high accuracy and low cost. Experimental results showing the circuit performance are presented. © 2008 The Institution of Engineering and Technology.