Re: simple current limit
Working of cct:
On low load current levels, bias current for the transistor is supplied through R2. As the load demand more current, more bias current will flow into the base resulting in a much bigger current between collector and emitter (due to current gain in the transistor) to the load. D1,D2 will not conduct until the total voltage drop (Vbe + VR1) is around 1.2v. This will occur with 0.1A flowing in R1 (assuming 0.6v drop per diode and b-e junction)
If the load now demands more current any additional current through R2 will be shunted away by D1,D2 from the base, thus preventing the current through the transistor to increase. The total load current will only increase by a very small amount (excess base current shunted into load) with any further decrease in load resistance.
An added bonus is that the diodes will also provide temp compensation. When the Vbe voltage drops with a increase in temp, voltage over D1,D2 will also drop to prevent more current flowing into the base.