Differential input

Signal input response to amplitude differences between two out-of-phase signals. Used in a balanced wiring system where the two wires carry signals that are identical, but 180° out-of-phase. The phase difference means that as a signal increases in voltage along one line, its mirror image on the other line decreases. This is useful because signals, such as hum and noise which have accumulated along a cable acting as an antenna, that are in phase are cancelled.

See common modedifferential amplifier.