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Piecewise Linear Resistor

Purpose

Piecewise linear resistor.

Library

Electrical / Passive Components

Description

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This component models a piecewise linear resistor. The resistance characteristic is defined by a set of voltage/current values.

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The operating mode of the piecewise linear resistor is illustrated in the diagram below.

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The voltage across the device dictates which internal switch is closed. The values 0 V / 0 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 (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 (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 (V). The positive terminal of the resistor is marked with a small black dot.
Resistor current
The current flowing through the component, in amperes (A).