A voltage source is an electrical component or device that provides a constant voltage across its terminals or output terminals. It is a fundamental element in electrical circuits and is used to supply electrical energy to various electronic devices, appliances, and systems. The primary purpose of a voltage source is to maintain a steady voltage level, regardless of the current drawn from it, as long as it stays within the source's rated capacity.
Voltage sources can be broadly categorized into two types:
Direct Current (DC) Voltage Source: A DC voltage source provides a constant voltage level in a circuit. This means that the voltage does not vary with time and remains fixed. Batteries and power supplies are common examples of DC voltage sources. They are widely used in electronic devices, such as laptops, cell phones, and other portable gadgets.
Alternating Current (AC) Voltage Source: An AC voltage source provides a varying voltage that changes direction periodically. The voltage waveform typically follows a sine wave pattern, and it continuously oscillates between positive and negative values. AC voltage sources are used in household electrical systems and power grids to deliver electricity to homes and businesses.
Voltage sources are essential in many applications where a stable and reliable voltage level is required to power electronic circuits and devices. They play a crucial role in powering everything from small electronic gadgets to large-scale industrial machinery. The voltage rating of a source is specified in volts (V), and its capacity is measured in amperes (A) or milliamperes (mA) for smaller devices.