FEEDBACK

1. The return of a portion of the output , or processed portion of the output, of a (usually active) device to the input . ( 188 ) Note 1: The feedback signal will have a certain magnitude and phase relationship relative to the output signal or the input signal. This relationship can be used to influence the behavior, such as the gain and stability , of the overall circuit . Note 2: If the feedback is regenerative (additive), it is called "positive feedback," which increases gain and distortion , and decreases linearity and stability. Note 3: If the feedback is degenerative (subtractive), it is called "negative feedback," which reduces the gain and distortion, and increases linearity and stability. Note 4: Feedback may occur inadvertently, and be detrimental. 2. Information returned as a response to an originating source.