In a comparator circuit with a nominal output high of 4.5 volts, what are the trip points?

In a comparator circuit, the trip points refer to the specific voltage levels at which the output state of the comparator changes. The upper trip point is the voltage at which the comparator transitions from low to high output, while the lower trip point is where it shifts from high back to low.

Given that the nominal output high for the circuit is 4.5 volts, it indicates that this is the maximum output when the input conditions are favorable. The correct answer identifies the upper trip point as +1.285 volts and the lower trip point as -1.285 volts, indicating that the comparator is designed to switch its output state when the input crosses these specified thresholds.

This configuration suggests that the comparator is sensitive to a narrower range around 0 volts, allowing it to respond to small changes around this central point. The trip points effectively establish a window within which the comparator operates, highlighting the important function of comparators to differentiate between two voltage levels, ensuring accurate signal processing in various applications.

In contrast, other options suggest trip points that are either too high or not effectively set around a significant operational range, which may not align with the typical functioning of a comparator designed for rapid and precise voltage level detection.