In Sections 2.06 and 2.14 we described some methods for
generating constant currents within a circuit, including
voltage-programmed currents with floating or grounded loads and
various forms of current mirrors. In Section 3.06 we showed how
to use FETs to construct some simple current-source circuits,
including "current-regulator diodes" (a JFET with gate tied to
source) such as the 1N5283 series. In Section 4.07 we showed how
to get improved performance (at low frequencies, anyway) by using
op-amps to construct current sources. And in Section 6.15 we
mentioned the convenient LM334 3-terminal current source IC.
There is often a need, however, for a flexible constant-current
supply, which can supply substantial voltage and current, as a
complete instrument. In this section we will look at some of the
more successful circuit techniques.