Abstract: A current drive apparatus for an active matrix display operates a plurality of loads, e.g. organic or inorganic EL elements, by applying a current thereto. The apparatus includes a plurality of output terminals to which the loads are respectively connected. A single current generation circuit comprising e.g. a digital to analogue converter and a current mirror, outputs an operating current having a predetermined current value. A plurality of current storage circuits are provided in accordance with the respective output terminals, sequentially sample and hold the operating current and then simultaneously output the drive currents based on the sampled operating currents to the respective output terminals. The operating current has a current value according to an input signal.

Abstract: A driving device which supplies a current to a plurality of current-driven optical elements to drive the optical elements includes at least a driving current supply circuit which supplies a driving current to each optical element for a predetermined period, and a control voltage applying circuit which applies a charge voltage having a voltage value corresponding to a voltage to be applied to each optical element using the driving current, before the driving current is supplied. The driving current supply circuit includes a single constant current generating circuit which outputs a constant current having the same current value as that of a driving current, and a plurality of current storage circuits which sequentially receive and hold the constant current and output the driving current on the basis of the constant current.