THEVENINS THEOREM

THEVENINS THEOREM A circuit analysis method that allows us to convert any linear circuit, or a portion of a circuit into a single equivalent circuit. The resulting simplified circuit consists of a constant voltage source (Thevenins Voltage, VTH) and a single series resistor (Thevenins Resistance, RTH). Used to simplify one part of a circuit (consisting of components that will not vary) in order to simplify the analysis of a second part of the circuit (consisting of components whose values change). The point in circuit that separates these two circuit sections is called THE POINT OF SIMPLIFICATION. Steps in Thevenizing a circuit: 1. Short all voltage sources then open all current sources. Also, open the circuit at the point of simplification. 2. Calculate the value of Thevenins resistance as seen from the point of simplification. 3. Replace voltage and current sources with their original values and open the circuit at the point of simplification. 4. Calculate Thevenins voltage at the point of simplification. 5. Replace the original circuit with the Thevenin equivalent for subsequent analysis of the circuit beyond point of simplification.

Example 1 Given:

Solution:

Example 2 Given:

REQUIRED: VX
Solution: Solve for RTH

Solve for VTH

For VX: