What is I-V Curve?

An I-V curve (short for 'current-voltage characteristic curve'), is a graphical representation of the relationship between the voltage applied across an electrical device and the current flowing through it.

It is one of the most common methods of determining how an electrical device functions in a circuit.

Key properties of electronic devices can also be extracted from the shape and details of the curve, enabling greater insight into their operation.

Measuring and Analysing an I-V Curve

An I-V curve measurement is performed by applying a series of voltages to the device.

At each voltage, the current flowing through the device is measured. The supplied voltage is measured by a voltmeter connected in parallel to the device, and the current is measured by an ammeter connected in series.