6. Source Transformation

Source Transformation

Is simplifying a circuit solution, especially with mixed sources, by transforming a voltage into a current source, and vice versa. Finding a solution to a circuit can be difficult without using methods such as this to make the circuit appear simpler. Source transformation is an application of Thévenin's theorem and Norton's theorem.

Steps: 

• Performing source transformations.
• Replacing series or parallel resistors by an equivalent resistor. 
• Replacing series voltage sources by an equivalent voltage source. 
• Replacing parallel current sources by an equivalent source source.

Each simplification is done in such a way that the voltage or current measured by the meter is not 

disturbed. Generally, that requires beginning the simplification at the opposite end of the circuit 

from the meter and then working toward the meter. 

Eventually, the circuit is small enough to be easily solved using Ohm’s and Kirchhoff’s Laws.

Example:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wqIfPaB0Hs8

I've learn that in source transformation, a voltage
source in series with an
impedance can be exchanged
for a current source in parallel
with the impedance and vice
versa. Repeated application
systematically reduces the
number of circuit elements.