What is clipper?

A clipper is an electronic circuit that limits (or “clips”) the voltage level of a signal to a preset maximum or minimum value. When the input signal tries to go beyond that set point, the circuit cuts off the excess, producing a flattened top or bottom on the waveform.

Let's break it down

A basic clipper uses a diode (or a pair of diodes) and a resistor. The diode only conducts when the signal voltage exceeds its forward‑bias voltage (about 0.7 V for a silicon diode). By placing the diode in series with the signal and tying it to a reference voltage, any part of the waveform that tries to go higher (or lower) than the reference is shunted away, leaving the rest of the signal unchanged. More complex clippers add multiple diodes, Zener diodes, or op‑amps to set precise clipping levels.

Why does it matter?

Clipping protects sensitive components from voltage spikes, prevents distortion in audio equipment, and shapes signals for digital logic or communication systems. It’s a quick way to enforce voltage limits without needing bulky protective devices.

Where is it used?

  • Audio amplifiers (to prevent speaker overload)
  • Radio transmitters (to keep signals within legal limits)
  • Power supplies (to protect downstream circuits)
  • Digital logic interfaces (to keep voltages within logic‑high/low thresholds)
  • Signal conditioning in measurement equipment

Good things about it

  • Simple and inexpensive: often just a diode and a resistor.
  • Fast response: works at very high frequencies.
  • No moving parts: highly reliable and low maintenance.
  • Can be designed for both positive and negative clipping simultaneously.
  • Helps improve safety and longevity of electronic devices.

Not-so-good things

  • Introduces distortion: the clipped waveform is no longer a true replica of the original.
  • Limited precision: diode forward voltage varies with temperature and manufacturing tolerances.
  • Not suitable for high‑power applications without additional components.
  • May require additional filtering to smooth out the sharp edges created by clipping.