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LT1970 Current source mode (DC2591A)

Category: Datasheet/Specs
Product Number: LT1970A

Hi everyone,

According to the demo manual DC2591A, the EasySMU board is described as a 'programmable-voltage/programmable-current' source (see the attached image from the first page of the datasheet).

I assume this functionality is provided by the LT1970 Power Op Amp at the core of the board. However, I'm a bit unclear on how it's being used as a current source. From what I can see, the EasySMU code doesn’t appear to directly set an output current (by set, I mean force like an SMU would); it seems to only set a current limit (using the 'fltSetCommitCurrentSource()' and 'CommitCurrentSourceSetting()' functions).

I've run some simulations with LTSpice using the provided model of the Op Amp, but I haven't been able to achieve a constant current through any load.

Could someone clarify how the current source functionality is implemented ?

Thanks a lot !



Added the precision that I am doing simulations.
[edited by: PiR at 2:47 PM (GMT -4) on 18 Aug 2024]

Thread Notes

  • Hi   ,

    Good day. The two channels of the LTC2655 configures the VCSRC and VCSNK pins. These pins configure the output source and sink current limits. 

    There also some configurations from LT1970A datasheet where the part is configured as a current source. Thank you.

    Regards,
    Gilbeys

  • To be honest, your answer doesn't directly address the question I initially asked. However, I have realized that my question was based on a misunderstanding of how voltage sources operate. I believe I have now resolved this issue.

    Initially, I thought the user needed to configure the LT1970A specifically as a current source. But this isn’t the case -- the LT1970A automatically switches from voltage source mode to current source mode when the current limit is reached (see attached image from the datasheet).

    Thank you