How to get a dc power supply to produce 2V at 10-20 milliamps?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the challenges faced by a user attempting to configure an adjustable DC power supply to output 2V at a current of 10-20 milliamps. Participants explore the feasibility of achieving this output and the necessary conditions for proper operation.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the brand and make of the power supply and the type of load being connected.
  • Another participant inquires about the expected resistor value needed to achieve 20mA at 2V.
  • A suggestion is made that an operational amplifier (op-amp) might be more suitable than a power supply for the user's needs.
  • It is noted that a 2V source can only produce 20mA through a specific resistor value, and that current is dependent on the load connected to the supply.
  • There is a call for more information regarding the user's circumstances to better understand the issue at hand.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether a power supply is appropriate for the user's needs, with some suggesting alternative solutions like an op-amp. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the best approach or the specific requirements for achieving the desired output.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved questions regarding the specific load and configuration of the power supply, as well as the assumptions about the circuit setup that may affect the output current.

pb23me
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I just got a adjustable dc power supply and I cannot figure out why it will not produce 1-2V at very small amps such as 10-20 milli amps? Is this not possible with a common dc power supply? I would greatly appreciate some help with this...
 
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What brand and make is the power supply?
What kind of load are you connection this to?
 
What resistor would you expect to connect across 2V to pass 20mA?
 
You don't need a power supply, you need an opamp.
 
But you can ONLY get a 2V source to produce a current of 20mA through one particular value of resistor. If you have an open circuit at the terminals then the current will be 0mA. The supply can't 'insist' on any value of current.
The current depends upon the Load and the Supply Volts:
I = V/R

Perhaps you should specify a bit more about the circumstances of the OP. I have a feeling there is something else we should know.
 

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