Begrenzer

Begrenzer, literally “limit-er” in German, is a term used in electronics, mechanics, and control engineering to describe devices that enforce an upper bound on a quantity. In electronic circuits, a Begrenzer limits signal amplitude to protect components, maintain safe input ranges, or prevent overload. The concept also appears in mechanical systems where movement, position, or speed is constrained.

Electronic Begrenzer may be passive or active. Common implementations include diode-based limiters that clip peaks when the input exceeds a threshold set by forward voltage or zener diodes, and op-amp based limiters that use feedback to bound the output. Soft-limiters produce gradual clipping, while hard-limiters produce abrupt clipping. In audio, limiters are closely related to compressors, with brick-wall limiters providing a strict peak ceiling to prevent distortion in broadcasts or mastering.

Mechanical Begrenzer provide physical stop or travel limits: end stops, travel restrictors, throttle or brake limiters on machinery or vehicles, aircraft altitude limiters, and similar devices. They protect machinery, operators, and structures from damage due to excessive motion, over-travel, or unsafe operating conditions.

In control theory, limiters enforce signal saturation and are used to preserve stability and prevent actuator saturation; anti-windup schemes adjust integration when the commanded value exceeds the limit. Begrenzer thus appear across a range of technical disciplines, serving to safeguard equipment and constrain operation within safe and designed boundaries.