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Why Is The Constant Current Circuit Important

The document discusses constant current circuits and their importance. It explains that a constant current circuit uses a constant current source to ensure a consistent output current regardless of variations in the load resistance. Constant current circuits are useful for applications that require a steady supply of current like LED lighting systems. The document also compares constant current sources to constant voltage sources and provides some examples of circuits that use constant currents.

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19 views7 pages

Why Is The Constant Current Circuit Important

The document discusses constant current circuits and their importance. It explains that a constant current circuit uses a constant current source to ensure a consistent output current regardless of variations in the load resistance. Constant current circuits are useful for applications that require a steady supply of current like LED lighting systems. The document also compares constant current sources to constant voltage sources and provides some examples of circuits that use constant currents.

Uploaded by

jack
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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RAYMING PCB & ASSEMBLY

Why is the Constant Current Circuit Important?


During analog circuit design engineers often encounter current source

and voltage source. Voltage sources like a 12V adapter or USB standard 5V

output usually have a constant voltage. However, there is more to say

about current sources. Some circuit designs require engineers to make

use of a constant current source, particularly those involving switching

circuits and Op-Amps.

These designs require a supply of constant current with fewer or no

interruptions. So, what is the function of a constant current circuit and

what are its uses?

Table of Contents

What is a Constant Current Circuit?

A constant current circuit ensures a constant current gets to a load

regardless of the variances and changes in a load resistance. This means

that a constant current source provides a consistent output current

everytime.

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Irrespective of the variations in resistance, this source must supply a

constant current. A constant current source is a requirement for circuits

with regular current.

A constant current source is a very valuable component in a constant

current circuit because it offers steady current even if the resistance

changes. Also, a constant current circuit requires a steady supply of

current without any form of fluctuations.

What is the Function of a Constant Current Source?

A constant current source functions as a power generator with higher

internal resistance than the load resistance it supplies power to. Due to its

high internal resistance, it ensures a steady current to a load which has a

varying resistance value, even above a high range.

A constant current source works based on the principle of current division.

Since it has a high internal resistance and low load resistance, the current

passes through the path with least resistance, comes out of the current

source and goes into the load resistance. Power generators with constant

current sources can keep supplying a steady current for a fluctuating load

resistance since it has a high internal resistance.

A constant current source is one of the best ways to ensure constant

power driving especially for a number of devices where there can be

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variation of load like LED strings. These circuits generate an I-V

characteristics which is denoted by a straight line.

What is the Difference Between a Constant Current Source

and Constant Voltage Source?

Current Circuit

Constant current source is different from constant voltage source,

although they sound similar. Each of these power supplies differs in terms

of their functions and applications. Therefore, it is important you choose

the suitable power supply.

A constant current is a type of direct current which maintains its intensity

regardless of the resistance value. If an electrical load varies, a constant

current source will help in regulating the load to a constant current.

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Furthermore, a constant current source keeps a current at a constant level,

no matter the changes in voltage supply.

A constant current power supply is applicable in LED lighting systems. The

brightness of the LED changes in response to the current value.

On the other hand, a constant voltage regulates the output voltage to a

constant level. This type of power supply offers constant voltage

irrespective of the electrical load. Constant voltage is commonly used in

most DC benchtop power supplies and power supplies

in electronic circuits.

Good examples of constant voltage sources include regulated power

supplies and batteries, although batteries need charging or replacement.

What is the Constant Current Source Circuit of LM334, TL431,

and LM317?

The constant current source circuit is a source connected to the load it is

powering. The LM344 is a very stable constant current source that comes

with three terminals. This current source can function at current levels

ranging from 1uA to 10mA. The operation level of this current source

depends on an external resistor Reset.

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With LM317, it is possible to use three pins to create a current of 1 amp.

Also, there are TO-92 packages that feature TL431 part. You can consider a

TL431A as a temperature-compensated variable that can serve as a

voltage source and a constant current source. Always ensure the input

voltage, output voltage, and switch nodes are measured properly.

Electronic Circuits that work on Constant Currents

Simple resistor current source circuit

There is only one resistor in a simple current source circuit. The output

current is independent of the load when the voltage that needs current is

lower compared to the source voltage. Furthermore, the voltage source

has an infinite voltage and the resistors have limitless resistance.

Constant current source circuit using transistor

It is possible to get a constant current source when you use a transistor

with other components such as resistors.

Simple stabilized active current source circuit

Also, you can change some electronic components in a circuit to add some

regulations. Therefore, it is possible to get rid of current fluctuations as a

result of changes in voltage supply.

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What are the Applications of Constant Current Circuit?

Constant current circuits are widely used in many applications since they

ensure steady constant current source. For example, LED lighting systems

and battery charging circuits require a steady constant source. Also,

constant current source is an important consideration for portable devices

need There are other applications which use a constant current source

include:

 Solar energy system

 Electromagnetic fields

 Hall Effect sensors

 Amplifying audio system

 Zener diode biasing regulator circuit

What are Variable Power Supplies?

Variable power supplies are components or devices that feature a means

to adjust the output voltage and as well as the output current. It is

possible perform this adjustment via a control panel and a switch. For

instance, you can use the control panel to adjust some settings and also

make some changes between CV and CC modes.

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The voltage of the original power source transferred to the circuit can be

regulated by a variable power. For example, a model train requires you to

use a switch to increase its speed and minimize the voltage supply.

Conclusion

Constant current circuit relies on a constant current source which

connects to a load that it is running. This source ensures there is a

continuous flow of current regardless of the voltage or resistance.

Related Posts:

1. What is a Current Limit Control Circuit?

2. What is a Load Current in PCB Circuit?

3. Why the Circuit Board Cleaner is Important

4. Is the Integrated Circuit Diagram Important?

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