Electronic – Differential to single ended

differentialsingle-ended

I have a differential signal ranging from 0 to 2 MHz and need to transform it into a single-ended signal.

I found out that there are 3 methods:

  1. Transformer
  2. Amplifier
  3. simply ground the negative part with a matching load

How can I decide which method to use? I mean I would just take the load-to-ground method but I guess it's not that simple to decide.

Edit: The transformer method would fall out, because DC cannot pass, although this would be no problem.

Best Answer

1.Transformer

If your signal is a single, or narrow band, frequency this method is fine. However, anything else and you introduce the transformers frequency response into your signal.

3.simply ground the negative part with matching a load

This method is ok, IF the signal source is close to the receiver. Since you are are throwing away the common mode noise reduction that is the reason the signal was sent differential in the first, this method should be limited to part to part connection locally on a PCB.

2.Amplifier

A differential amplifier is ultimately your best choice. Not only will it be easier to control the frequency response of the receiver, but you also take full advantage of the common mode noise removal. Further, this method decouples the input signal from wherever the signal is headed to giving you the appropriate output impedance to feed the next stage.