Circuit Simulator - Howland Current Source
Howland Current Source
Circuit Description:
This circuit shows a current source. The current through the load is the same regardless of the position of the switch.
The op-amp attempts to keep the voltages at both terminals the same, so V– = V+. Call V1 the voltage across R1, and I1 the current across R1. Then V2 = V4. Since I1 = I2 and R1 = R2, V1 = V2 = V4.
V– = V+ = V1 - 5V
I3 = V+/R3 = (V1 - 5V)/R3.
I4 = I3 + Iload.
I4 = V4/R4 = V1/R3.
V1/R3 = (V1 - 5V)/R3 + Iload
Iload = 5V / R3 = 1.67 mA
The op-amp attempts to keep the voltages at both terminals the same, so V– = V+. Call V1 the voltage across R1, and I1 the current across R1. Then V2 = V4. Since I1 = I2 and R1 = R2, V1 = V2 = V4.
V– = V+ = V1 - 5V
I3 = V+/R3 = (V1 - 5V)/R3.
I4 = I3 + Iload.
I4 = V4/R4 = V1/R3.
V1/R3 = (V1 - 5V)/R3 + Iload
Iload = 5V / R3 = 1.67 mA
Discussion:
5 comments Page 1 of 1.
Someone said:
1 decade ago
It stops because when you flip the switch, you created a path where resistance equals 0.
(7)
SPF said:
1 decade ago
Sorry, doesn't work. Did you actually try it on SPICE?
(7)
Nick said:
1 decade ago
That's Widlar's current source. Still nicely done.
(5)
Tom said:
1 decade ago
Why does the current stop in resistor R3 when the switch is closed? Is it just so small that it does not show? There should be some current unless these are theoretical Zero resistance switch and conductors ("wires").
(4)
S_eng said:
1 decade ago
The demonstration circuit is flawed, and contrary to the text statement, and as drawn, the current in the load WILL vary. It would be better to show an additional load switched in, in series with the first load, thus showing that the circuit delivers a constant value current despite the changing load.
(3)
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