AD5543/AD5553
Programmable Current Source
Figure 10 shows a versatile V-I conversion circuit using an
improved Howland Current Pump. In addition to the precision
current conversion it provides, this circuit enables a bidirec-
tional current flow and high voltage compliance. This circuit
can be used in 4 to 20 mA current transmitters with up to 500 Ω
of load. In Figure 10, it can be shown that if the resistor network is
matched, the load current is:
(R2 + R3) / R1
IL =
R3
×VREF × D
(5)
R3 in theory can be made small to achieve the current needed
within the U3 output current driving capability. This circuit is
versatile such that AD8510 can deliver ± 20 mA in both direc-
tions and the voltage compliance approaches 15 V, which is
limited mainly by the supply voltages of U3. However, users
must pay attention to the compensation. Without C1, it can be
shown that the output impedance becomes:
R1' R3(R1+ R2)
ZO = R1(R2' +R3') – R1'(R2 + R3)
(6)
If the resistors are perfectly matched, ZO is infinite, which is
desirable, and behaves as an ideal current source. On the other
hand, if they are not matched, ZO can be either positive or nega-
tive. Negative can cause oscillation. As a result, C1 is needed to
prevent the oscillation. For critical applications, C1 could be
found empirically, but typically falls in the range of few pF.
VDD
VREF
U1
VDD
VREF
RFB
IOUT
GND
AD8628
AD5543/AD5553 U2
R1' R2'
150k⍀ 15k⍀
C1
10pF
R1
150k⍀
VDD
U3
V+
AD8510
V–
VSS
R3'
50⍀
R3
50⍀
VL
R2
15k⍀
LOAD IL
Figure 10. Programmable Current Source with Bidirec-
tional Current Control and High Voltage Compliance
Capabilities
REV. A
–9–