Concerning the need for an anti-swamp resistor(s)

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the necessity of .1R/5W resistors, referred to as "anti-swamp" resistors, in a multi-parallel legged current booster schematic using an LM317 variable voltage regulator. Participants explore the differences in schematic requirements between multi-parallel and single parallel configurations, specifically excluding audio amplifier applications.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the requirement of anti-swamp resistors in multi-parallel configurations compared to single parallel setups, noting that no resistor is shown in the latter.
  • Another participant emphasizes that the resistors are necessary to balance current from multiple supplies, suggesting that an imbalance could lead to overheating and potential failure.
  • A participant mentions the negative temperature coefficient of the VBE of power BJTs, proposing that a series 0R1 resistor could help maintain similar currents and temperatures.
  • Several participants express confusion regarding the schematic and the term "swamp resistor," indicating a need for visual references or further clarification.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus on the necessity of anti-swamp resistors, with some supporting their use for current balancing and others questioning their requirement based on schematic differences.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of visual references to the schematics being discussed, which may limit understanding of the arguments presented. The term "swamp resistor" is not universally understood among participants.

Scott McKie
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Why are .1R/5W resistors, known as "anti-swamp" resistors, required in a multi-parallel legged current booster schematic using an LM317 variable voltage regulator schematic when no resistor is shown on a single parallel legged current booster schematic using the same LM317? variable voltage regulator? This is not to be used in a audio amplifier configuration.
 
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Scott McKie said:
Why are .1R/5W resistors, known as "anti-swamp" resistors, required in a multi-parallel legged current booster schematic using an LM317 variable voltage regulator schematic when no resistor is shown on a single parallel legged current booster schematic using the same LM317? variable voltage regulator? This is not to be used in a audio amplifier configuration.

Link to schematic...? :smile:
 
Hello Berkeman,
I am do not see any schematic (reference your reply) to link to. Can you please send me directions on where and how to do so.
Thanks,
Scott McKie
 
Scott McKie said:
Hello Berkeman,
I am do not see any schematic (reference your reply) to link to. Can you please send me directions on where and how to do so.
Thanks,
Scott McKie

Where did you see the circuit? Can you scan it and upload it? Or worst case, take a picture of it with your cellphone and upload the picture? I'm not familiar with the term "swamp resistor", so I'm not sure what to do a Google Images search for...
 
The resistors balance the current from the multiple supplies. If one supply provides more current then it may get hotter and the temperature coefficient may increase the current further, leading to failure. It will be swamped.

The VBE of power BJTs has a negative temperature coefficient. A series 0R1 is sufficient to keep the currents and temperatures similar.
 
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