What is one method to increase the gain of an amplifier?

To increase the gain of an amplifier, adjusting resistor values in the feedback network is a key method because the feedback network directly influences the relationship between the input and output signals. When you modify the resistor values, you can alter the feedback ratio applied to the amplifier. Specifically, in non-inverting and inverting amplifiers, this feedback affects how much of the output voltage is fed back into the input, which is critical in determining the overall gain. By choosing appropriately sized resistors, you can effectively increase the gain to the desired level, allowing for enhanced amplification of the input signal.

The other methods mentioned do not effectively enhance gain. For instance, using a lower resistance in the feedback network might lead to an increase in gain for some configurations, but this is not universally applicable and does not provide the same level of control as adjusting resistor values. Decreasing the power supply voltage generally reduces the available output swing and can lead to clipping in the output waveform, thereby potentially lowering gain. Lastly, minimizing the input signal does not enhance gain; in fact, a stronger input signal, within the limits of the amplifier’s range, is typically necessary for achieving higher output without distortion.