A BJT has an effective resistance of
R =3D (Vc - Ve)/Ic
but since Ve =3D Vb - Vbe
R =3D (Vc + Vbe - Vb)/Ic
For it to act like a true resistor(that is, R' ~=3D 0) then if we can set V= b =3D Vc + Vbe - gamma*Ic
We have
R =3D gamma
That is, If we program the base of a BJT with with the sum of a constant vo= ltage and a proportional voltage to the current going through it then the B= JT will act like a common resistor(with in limits obviously).
Is this possible to achieve? We can get Ic through a current mirror and pos= sibly use a current multiplier to get gamma. By subtracting this voltage fr= om Vc + Vbe we can get a fixed(independent of time) resistance.
This could lead to a voltage or current controlled resistance and possibly = floating(Rather than having to have it tied to one of the rails like DCR's)= .
It would be quite easy to program the base of a BJT to achieve such results= . A uC, few resistors, and DAC's could do the job.
The question is, can anyone come up with a suitable discrete topology to do= the same thing more efficiently? There are not to many ways to achieve tru= e floating voltage controlled resistors cheaply(in fact, I do not know any)= . Anyone have any ideas how it may be possible?