The word "Phase splitter" is a term commonly used in electronic engineering, referring to a circuit element that divides an input signal into two output signals with opposite phases. The word is spelled with a "ph" instead of an "f" because it originates from the Greek word "phḗsis," meaning "appearance" or "aspect." The phonetic transcription for "phase splitter" is /feɪz splɪtər/, indicating a long "a" sound in "phase" and a short "i" sound in "splitter."
A phase splitter is an electronic circuit designed to divide an input signal into two equal but opposite-phase output signals. Also known as a phase inverter or a phase shifter, it is commonly used in audio amplification systems and other electronic applications where there is a need for balanced signal distribution.
The purpose of a phase splitter is to create two output signals that are 180 degrees out-of-phase with each other. This means that one signal is in the positive phase while the other is in the negative phase. The input signal is usually a single-ended signal, which means it has a reference point or a ground. The phase splitter circuit takes this input and generates two signals, one positive and one negative, with equal magnitudes but opposite polarities.
The phase splitter is often used in push-pull amplifier designs, which require balanced signals to drive the output stage. It is also commonly used in audio equipment to drive speakers or headphones. By splitting the input signal into two opposite-phase signals, the phase splitter allows for proper cancellation of unwanted noise or distortion, resulting in improved sound quality.
In summary, a phase splitter is an electronic circuit that divides an input signal into two equal but opposite-phase output signals. It plays a crucial role in balancing and distributing signals in various electronic applications, particularly in audio amplification systems.
The term "phase splitter" originated in the field of electronics, specifically in vacuum tube technology. It refers to a device or circuit that splits an input signal into two output signals with opposite phases.
The etymology of the term can be understood by breaking it down into its components.
1. Phase: The word "phase" comes from the Greek word "phásis", which means "appearance", "state", or "aspect". In the context of electronics, it refers to the relative timing or alignment of two or more signals. For example, two signals can be in-phase when their peaks and troughs occur at the same time, or out of phase when their peaks and troughs are shifted relative to one another.
2. Splitter: The word "splitter" comes from the verb "split", which means to divide or separate something into two or more parts.