Method for operating a current source and device for separating a current source from a consumer

The method involves supplying current from a current source (1) to a consumer (2) through a power line (3) in a primary operating state. The supply of current from the current source to the consumer through the power line is inhibited by a separating unit (4) in a secondary operating state. The primary operating state is carried out when a control unit (5) assigned to the consumer sends back an expected signal in a predefined time interval through the power line. The secondary operating state is carried out when the control unit sends back another signal or no signal in the predefined time interval through the power line. An independent claim is included for an apparatus for separating a power source from a consumer.