Ideal Voltage Source vs Ideal Current Source
Ideal Voltage Source
An ideal voltage source maintains a constant voltage across its terminals regardless of the current drawn from it.
- Voltage is fixed
- Current can be anything
- Internal resistance = 0 Ω
Implications:
- Short circuit → current becomes infinite
- Supplies whatever current is needed to maintain voltage
Example: A perfect 5V source always outputs 5V.
Ideal Current Source
An ideal current source delivers a constant current regardless of the voltage across it.
- Current is fixed
- Voltage can be anything
- Internal resistance = ∞ (infinite)
Implications:
- Open circuit → voltage becomes infinite
- Generates any voltage required to maintain current
Example: A perfect 3A source always supplies 3A.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Ideal Voltage Source | Ideal Current Source |
|---|---|---|
| Keeps constant | Voltage | Current |
| Internal resistance | 0 Ω | ∞ Ω |
| Short circuit | Infinite current | Safe (current fixed) |
| Open circuit | Safe | Infinite voltage |