Network Theory I

Chapter 3 Methods of Analysis

Nodal Analysis
Based on systematic application of KCL

Analysis performed using node voltages as the

unknown variables.
Procedures of performing nodal analysis
1. Select a node as the reference node.
2. Assign voltages , , to the remaining nodes measured with
respect to the reference node.
3. Assign a direction to the current in each passive branch and
use Ohms law to express the branch currents in terms of
node voltages.
4. Apply KCL at each nonreference node.
5. Solve the resulting simultaneous equations for unknown
node voltages.
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Nodal Analysis
Example 3.1

Find the node voltages of the network.

,
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Nodal Analysis
Exercise

Find the node voltages of the network.

Nodal Analysis with Voltage Sources

Case I
Voltage sources appear between a nonreference node
and the reference node.
Nonreference node voltage is equal to the voltage
of the voltage source.

Case II
Voltage sources appear between two nonreference
nodes.
Form a supernode by enclosing the voltage source
and any elements connected in parallel with it.
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Nodal Analysis by Inspection

Example 3.5

Mesh Analysis

3 Meshes
5 Meshes
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Mesh Analysis
Based on systematic application of KVL to solve
for mesh currents as the unknown variables.

Only applicable to planar circuit

Procedures of performing mesh analysis
1. Assign mesh currents , , to the meshes with a direction,
either clockwise or counterclockwise.
2. Label the polarity of the voltages across resistors. Express the
voltages in terms of the mesh currents according to the
labeled polarity.
3. Apply KVL to each mesh.
4. Solve the resulting simultaneous equations for unknown
mesh currents.
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Mesh Analysis with Current Sources

Case I
Current source exists only in one mesh.
Mesh current is determined by the current
source.

Case II
Current source exists between two meshes.
Form a supermesh by excluding the current
source and any elements connected in series
with it.
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