Piece-wise Linear Resistor

Purpose

Resistance defined by voltage-current pairs

Library

Electrical / Passive Components

Description

This component models a piece-wise linear resistor. The resistance characteristic is defined by a set of voltage-current values and is shown in Fig. 192.

Fig. 192 Piece-wise linear resistor characteristic curve

The operating mode of the piece-wise linear resistor is illustrated in Fig. 193.

Fig. 193 Piece-wise linear resistor internal schematic

The voltage across the device dictates which internal switch is closed. The values \(0\,\mathrm{V}\) / \(0\,\mathrm{A}\) must always be defined in the set of voltage / current values to ensure the current is zero at zero voltage.

Note

In order to model a saturation characteristic with \(n\) segments, this component requires \(n\) ideal switches. It is therefore advisable to keep the number of segments low in order to maintain a high simulation speed.

Parameters

Voltage values

A vector of voltage values \(U\) in volts \((\mathrm{V})\) that defines the piece-wise linear characteristic. The voltage values must be strictly monotonic increasing. At least two values are required. The value 0 must be present, the corresponding current value must also be 0.

Current values

A vector of current values \(I\) in amperes \((\mathrm{A})\) that defines the piece-wise linear characteristic. The current values must be strictly monotonic increasing. The number of current values must match the number of voltage values. The value 0 must be present, the corresponding voltage value must also be 0.

Probe Signals

Resistor voltage drop

The voltage measured across the component, in volts \((\mathrm{V})\). The positive terminal of the resistor is marked with a small black dot.

Resistor current

The current flowing through the component, in amperes \((\mathrm{A})\).

Resistor power

The power consumed by the resistor, in watts \((\mathrm{W})\).