What occurs in a Class B amplifier during the compression phase?

In a Class B amplifier, the compression phase refers to the specific operation of the amplifier during the signal cycle where it is actively amplifying positive and negative half-cycles of the input signal. During this phase, the amplifier is designed to respond to the input signal by working in a push-pull configuration, which is fundamental to Class B operation.

This means that one transistor in the amplifier pushes the output during the compression of the positive half-cycle, while the other transistor pulls during the rarefaction of the negative half-cycle. This push-pull action allows the amplifier to effectively handle both halves of the waveform, leading to more efficient amplification and less distortion compared to other amplifier classes. As a result, the Class B amplifier can produce signals with good fidelity and efficiency during its operation, particularly when handling audio signals.

Understanding this mechanism is important for grasping how Class B amplifiers achieve their efficiency in bipolar transistor circuits.