5.1.2. Non-Linear Circuit Analysis Plan

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a non-linear circuit?

   Hint

   Think of how diodes behave.

2. 2.

   Describe Kirchhoff's Current Law.

   Hint

   It's about current conservation.

3. 3.

   What does KCL state?

   • Total current entering a junction equals total current leaving
   • Total voltage around a loop is equal to zero
   • Current in linear circuits must increase with voltage

   Hint

   Remember it relates to currents at a junction.

4. 4.

   Is a diode a linear device?

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on how the I-V graph looks.

5. 5.

   Consider a circuit with a voltage source of 12V, a diode with a threshold of 0.7V in series with a resistor of 1kΩ. Calculate the current flowing through the circuit using both graphical and iterative methods.

   Hint

   Use KCL and KVL to guide your iterative calculations.

6. 6.

   Compare the outcomes of small signal equivalent circuit analysis and direct analysis for a diode circuit with 5V input and a load resistor of 500Ω. Which method is likely to be more useful and why?

   Hint

   Consider when linearization simplifies real circuit analysis.