Constant current sources

thatoneguy

Joined Feb 19, 2009
6,359
From the article:

where K = 1.2 to 2 (so that R1 is low enough to ensure adequate IB),
K needs to change to ensure transistor is in the working area of the transistor, which can be found on the datasheet for your current (Ic). Typically I_B=0.1 x Ic
 

jimkeith

Joined Oct 26, 2011
540
In the middle of the page is this statement:
"where K = 1.2 to 2 (so that R1 is low enough to ensure adequate IB)"
It appears that K is simply a fudge factor that accommodates a wide range of Hfe's.
Minimum base current = Ib and Maximum base current = K*Ib

Another take could be designing for a 'starved' base drive circuit--this might be OK for battery operated devices, but generally a poor design practice.

K and Hfe may be ignored under this condition: Iz = 10* Ib
 
Top