This paper describes a full three-dimensional, numerical analysis of t
he transient fields. of superconductor temperature, critical current d
ensity, electrical resistance and transport current distribution in a
Bi-2223/Ag high temperature superconductor. The analysis is made for s
ingle (point-like) or extended thermal disturbances of finite duration
. Current sharing between the superconducting material and the Ag jack
et, intrinsic stability functions and maximum conductor temperatures a
re calculated for different ratios of transport to critical current, s
trength of disturbances, anisotropy ratio of thermal conductivity, and
thermal resistances between superconductor and Ag jacket.