Programmable current source requires no power supply

Focus:

An inexpensive, programmable current source can be built from an adjustable linear regulator, a few BCD switches, and some resistors.

What you’ll learn:

• How to build an inexpensive programmable current source
• How to preload power supplies using an inexpensive, programmable current source
• How to charge and discharge batteries using an inexpensive, programmable current source

Notes:

Despite the title, this current source requires a 5-V power supply.

View the Source

Author & Publication:

John Guy, National Semiconductor, Santa Clara, CA; Edited by Charles H Small and Fran Granville, EDN, Jun 12 2008

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