Understanding Resonant Circuits: Series, Parallel, and Applications

resonant circuit
series resonance
parallel resonance
impedance
rf circuit

A resonant circuit is an electric circuit composed of inductor (L) and capacitor (C) components where the inductive reactance and capacitive reactance are equal.

If the L and C components are connected in series, it’s known as a series resonant circuit. When they’re connected in parallel, it’s called a parallel resonant circuit. Both types are illustrated in the diagram below.

At the resonant frequency, the reactances of the inductor and capacitor effectively cancel each other out, resulting in a purely resistive impedance.

Series Resonant Circuit

In this configuration, the inductor (L) and capacitor (C) are connected in series, with a load resistor (R) connected in parallel to the combination.

The resonant frequency of a series resonant circuit is calculated as follows:

f = 1 / (2 * π * √(L * C))

At the resonant frequency, the impedance of the series circuit reaches its minimum. This allows the maximum current to flow through the circuit.

Series resonant circuits are commonly used in radio frequency (RF) applications, such as frequency filtering and tuning.

Resonant circuit types Resonant circuit types

Parallel Resonant Circuit

In a parallel resonant circuit, the inductor (L) and capacitor (C) are connected in parallel with each other, and the load resistor is connected in series with this combination.

The same formula used for series resonant frequency calculation is typically applied to parallel resonant circuits.

At the resonant frequency, the impedance of the circuit is at its maximum. This results in a high voltage across the load resistor.

Parallel resonant circuits find common use in audio applications, such as filtering frequencies in audio signal processing.

Other Types of Resonant Circuits

Besides the series and parallel configurations, there are other types of resonant circuits, including bandpass resonant circuits, bandstop resonant circuits, and tuned transformers.

  • Bandpass Circuit: A combination of series and parallel resonant circuits, designed to pass a narrow range of frequencies. It’s utilized in communication systems and audio signal processing.

  • Bandstop Circuit: Designed to attenuate or reject a specific frequency band, while allowing other frequencies to pass through.

  • Tuned Transformer: A resonant circuit that uses a transformer with tuned primary and secondary windings.

Equivalent Circuits of Resonant Circuits

Equivalent circuits of resonant circuits Equivalent circuits of resonant circuits

The figure above depicts equivalent circuits of resonant circuits shown previously.

Difference Between Series and Parallel Resonance

The following table summarizes the key differences between series and parallel resonance circuits:

SpecificationsSeries resonanceParallel resonance
ConfigurationComponents are connected in series.Components are connected in parallel.
Impedance at resonanceMinimumMaximum
Current at resonanceMaximumMinimum
Effective impedanceRL/CR
Resonant frequency1/(2*π√(LC)){ 1/(2*π) } * { (1/LC) - (R²/L²) }^0.5
Magnifying parameterVoltageCurrent
Other nameAcceptor circuitRejector circuit
Power factor valueUnityUnity
BandwidthNarrowWide
Quality Factor (Q)HighLow
ApplicationsUsed in tuning circuits, filters and amplifiers.Used in impedance matching circuits, inductor/capacitor selection

Conclusion

Resonance is a fundamental concept in diverse applications, including radio frequency (RF) circuits, audio signal processing, filters, transformers, and antennas. By understanding and controlling resonance in electronic circuits, engineers can design and optimize devices for specific frequency related tasks, ultimately enhancing overall performance.

Understanding Resonance in Electrical Circuits

Understanding Resonance in Electrical Circuits

Explore resonance in AC circuits with capacitors and inductors. Learn about series and parallel resonance, resonant frequency, Q factor, and applications.

resonance
electrical circuit
series resonance
3dB and 6dB Attenuator Circuit Design

3dB and 6dB Attenuator Circuit Design

Explore 3dB and 6dB attenuator circuit designs using Pi and T configurations with resistor values. Learn about impedance matching and signal level adjustment in RF circuits.

rf circuit
attenuator
impedance matching
PIN Diode RF Switch and Attenuator Design

PIN Diode RF Switch and Attenuator Design

Explore PIN diode characteristics and circuit designs for RF switches and attenuators. Learn how PIN diodes are used to control RF power in microwave circuits.

rf switch
pin diode
attenuator