The summing amplifier, or inverting adder, extends the inverting amplifier to several inputs. Each input V1,V2,V3,… is applied through its own resistor R1,R2,R3,… to the common inverting (−) node, which is a virtual ground; a single feedback resistor Rf sets the overall scale, and the (+) terminal is grounded.
Because the inverting node sits at 0 V and draws no current, each input drives its own current Vn/Rn into the node; these currents add and flow together through Rf. The result is a negative weighted sum:
Vo=−Rf(R1V1+R2V2+R3V3)=−(R1RfV1+R2RfV2+R3RfV3)
Each input's weight is Rf/Rn, so choosing the resistors sets each coefficient independently. If all resistors are equal, Vo=−(V1+V2+V3), a perfect adder. Only one op-amp is needed for any number of inputs.
To design an adder for a required expression, equate coefficients: to realise VO=3V1−2V2+5.5V3 with Rf=30 kΩ, set R1=Rf/3=10 kΩ, R2=Rf/2=15 kΩ, R3=Rf/5.5≈5.45 kΩ, applying inputs with the correct polarity so the adder's own inversion delivers the wanted signs. This weighted-summing action is the basis of audio mixers and of weighted-resistor digital-to-analog converters.