Electronic – Why do we take gain and phase margin from these points in stability

control systemstability

In the following graph, why do we take the phase margin from -180 degrees and the gain margin from 0 dB in stability?

Phase and gain margin

Best Answer

An inverting amplifier will start to oscillate when the feedback network causes:

  1. a gain of 1 (0dB) and
  2. with an 180 degree phase shift.

If you get near these two prerequisites for oscillation you'll notice that the amplifier will show first signs of oscillation like overshooting and taking relatively long to dampen to the end value. This is best visible with response to a step or a square wave signal.

By keeping sufficient margin, these effects can be minimized to an acceptable level.