The simplest voltage follower configuration requires which connection?

The simplest voltage follower configuration requires which connection?

• A. A direct connection between output and noninverting input
• B. A direct connection between output and inverting terminals
• C. A resistor in the feedback path
• D. A capacitor in the feedback path

Answer: (B)

A voltage follower uses unity gain achieved through negative feedback. Place the input signal on the noninverting input and connect the output directly back to the inverting input. This direct feedback forces the inverting node to follow the output, so the op-amp drives its output until Vout ≈ Vin. Because the loop is negative, the gain is exactly 1, giving a true follower that buffers the source without amplification. Connecting the output to the noninverting input would create positive feedback and drive the output to a rail, not follow the input. Adding a resistor or capacitor in the feedback path would alter the gain or frequency response, not produce the simplest unity-gain buffer.

A voltage follower uses unity gain achieved through negative feedback. Place the input signal on the noninverting input and connect the output directly back to the inverting input. This direct feedback forces the inverting node to follow the output, so the op-amp drives its output until Vout ≈ Vin. Because the loop is negative, the gain is exactly 1, giving a true follower that buffers the source without amplification. Connecting the output to the noninverting input would create positive feedback and drive the output to a rail, not follow the input. Adding a resistor or capacitor in the feedback path would alter the gain or frequency response, not produce the simplest unity-gain buffer.