áramforrást

An áramforrás, or current source, is a fundamental electronic component that ideally delivers a constant electric current into a circuit regardless of the voltage across it. In contrast to a voltage source, which aims to maintain a constant voltage, a current source's primary characteristic is its current output. This behavior is crucial in many electronic applications where a stable and predictable current is needed for the operation of other components.

Ideal current sources are theoretical constructs. In practice, real-world current sources have limitations. They can only maintain their constant current output over a certain range of voltages. Beyond this range, their behavior deviates from the ideal. The output impedance of a real current source is also a factor; a high output impedance is desirable for it to behave more like an ideal current source.

Current sources are often implemented using transistors, operational amplifiers, or specialized integrated circuits. They are employed in a wide variety of circuits, including LED drivers, where maintaining a consistent current is essential for controlling brightness and preventing damage. They are also used in biasing transistor circuits, measurement instrumentation, and in power conversion systems. The ability to provide a stable current makes them indispensable for precise control and operation of electronic devices.