Circuit arrangement for short-circuit monitoring

A circuit arrangement for short-circuit monitoring of a DC load is specified, which becomes high-resistant if the resistance value through the load falls below a predetermined level and in consequence virtually isolates the load from its power supply. Once it has changed into the high-resistance state, the circuit arrangement remains in this state until the load circuit is completely isolated. The circuit arrangement is implemented by means of a first transistor, which is connected in series with the load, and a second transistor which changes its base-voltage divider ratio and is connected by means of its base to the collector of the first transistor.