Voltage vs. Current Sources: Understanding the Differences

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SUMMARY

This discussion clarifies the fundamental differences between voltage sources and current sources in electrical engineering. An ideal voltage source maintains a fixed voltage regardless of the current drawn, while an ideal current source maintains a fixed current regardless of the voltage across it. The conversation emphasizes that variable power supplies are not equivalent to ideal sources, as they are designed for specific applications and include additional features for safety and convenience. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for accurately applying these concepts in practical scenarios.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Ohm's Law (V=IR)
  • Familiarity with electrical circuit components
  • Knowledge of ideal voltage and current sources
  • Basic concepts of variable power supplies
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the characteristics of ideal voltage and current sources
  • Explore the applications of variable power supplies in circuit design
  • Study the impact of load resistance on voltage and current sources
  • Learn about controlled sources and their role in circuit simulations
USEFUL FOR

Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and professionals involved in power supply design and analysis will benefit from this discussion.

Marcin H
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Homework Statement


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Homework Equations


V=IR

The Attempt at a Solution


I thought I had this right, but then I started thinking about it and I'm not sure anymore. My thought was since the voltage was changing and the current was constant, that the source was a voltage source. I kinda thought of it as you changing the voltage on a power supply or something keeping the current constant. Is that right? I feel like it's not.
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Ideal independent supplies are generally specified to produce a single fixed value. A voltage supply produces a fixed voltage, while a current supply produces a fixed current. Variable power supplies are not the same thing, being more a version of a controlled source with other bells and whistles for convenience and safety.

An ideal voltage supply will produce a given fixed voltage no matter what. It will produce any amount of current required in order to accomplish this.

An ideal current supply will produce a given fixed current no matter what. It will produce any amount of voltage required in order to accomplish this.
 
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gneill said:
Ideal independent supplies are generally specified to produce a single fixed value. A voltage supply produces a fixed voltage, while a current supply produces a fixed current. Variable power supplies are not the same thing, being more a version of a controlled source with other bells and whistles for convenience and safety.

An ideal voltage supply will produce a given fixed voltage no matter what. It will produce any amount of current required in order to accomplish this.

An ideal current supply will produce a given fixed current no matter what. It will produce any amount of voltage required in order to accomplish this.
Hmm. Ok. Thanks for clarifying!
 

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