4

So I'm trying to implement a constant current source to conduct a specific measurement using a AD8276 differential amplifier. I'm trying got derive the equations my self for sanity check, and to give a little me weight when I present my idea. This is what I have work out but my math doesn't checkout, here is a [circuit diagram][2] for my calculations

schematic

simulate this circuit – Schematic created using CircuitLab

things to know Rf1=Rf2=Rg1=Rg2 and R1=R2

The equivalent resistance of the parallel circuit consisting of the load resistance and the negative feedback lines $$R_{eq} = {({R_L}^{-1}+(R_1+R_2+R_{f1}+R_{g1})^{-1}})^{-1} $$

The voltage at the positive terminal, using the voltage divider. This is mainly where I thin I have gone wrong. $$V_1 = V_{ref} * ({R_{f2}+R_{eq}})/({R_{g2}+R_{f2}+R_{eq}}) $$

Next it is understood that the negative terminal of the op amp will have the same voltage as the positive terminal, 0 potential diffrence $$V_1 = V_2$$

V2 will be propped completely across Vg1 and therefore the current through R1,R2 and Rf1 can be calculated by calculating the current through Rg1 $$I_{Rg1} = V_2 /R_{g1} $$

The total current supplied by Vref is $$I_{total} = (V_{ref} - V_1)/R_{g2} $$

And therefore the current through the load is $$I_L =I_{total} - I_{g1} $$

This does not give me the same results as the equation provided from the sources of www.analog.com/library/analogDialogue/archives/43-09/current_source.html figure 5 without the transitor. $$I_o = I_L = V_{ref}((1/40K)+(1/R_2) $$

Any thoughts?

EDIT: I fixed my diagram error

Lpaulson
  • 175
  • 2
  • 11
  • 2
    Analog's circuit is different. The op-amp is "upside down" compared to your diagram. Plus other details, like the transistor, and the other op-amp doing the sensing feedback. In that circuit, the current across $R_l$ has no other path to go by out across $R_{load}$. (Since the + input on the AD8603 op-amp in the feedback has a high impedance) So if the circuit regulates the voltage drop across $R_l$, it thereby programs the current across the load. – Kaz Apr 16 '13 at 01:20

1 Answers1

1

You've made a basic error - you have the inverted and non-inverted inputs of your op-amp swapped. Here's what it should look like: -

enter image description here

Here's a good document on it. Alternatively look in the data sheet for the AD8276 - page 17 top right-hand corner shows a constant current generator using an extra transistor and I suspect your design was based on this circuit but without the extra grunt from the transistor.

(This text is here to satisfy SO's 6 character edit requirement...)

fearless_fool
  • 139
  • 9
Andy aka
  • 456,226
  • 28
  • 367
  • 807
  • You're correct I'm trying to recreate the circuit from the data sheet on page 17. I'll give the article a read thanks for the material, do you have any thought on the math I have provided? – Lpaulson Apr 16 '13 at 15:13
  • You need to develop the math from the correct circuit then it's easy (well, easier)!! – Andy aka Apr 16 '13 at 15:21
  • Sorry, I should have mentioned I revised the circuit. – Lpaulson Apr 16 '13 at 16:18