Nonlinear sensitivity in a single-loop feedback circuit

A nonlinear sensitivity criterion is defined for the single-loop feedback circuits in terms of the Volterra-Wiener series. It is shown that, when the input-signal amplitude is sufficiently small, this sensitivity approaches the linear definition for the change in amplifier gain. The result is applied to a single-amplifier filter whose dynamic range is limited by slew-induced distortion. It is demonstrated that, for such circuits, the nonlinear sensitivity is closely related to the gain-sensitivity product.