Abstract: A circuit supplied with direct voltage serves for generation of voltages and/or currents of differing curve shape and differing frequency and/or differing polarity. A load L with ohmic, inductive, capacitive or complex resistance behavior is switched in series with a choke D. Furthermore, at least two controlled semiconductor switches T.sub.1 and T.sub.2 are provided, which are each, respectively in series, as far as the load L and the choke D are connected, but which, however, lie in current paths 1 and 2 which are connected at different potentials of the supply voltage. In operational use, the one switch T.sub.2 is held open while the other switch T.sub.1 is opened and closed in alternating sequence, and after termination of an adjustable and controllable time period, the switch T.sub.1, which has been hitherto operated in alternating sequence, is now kept open, while the switch T.sub.