1. What is a Voltage Divider Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the output voltage from a voltage divider circuit based on input voltage and two resistor values.

Purpose: It helps electronics engineers and hobbyists design circuits that require specific voltage reduction.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the voltage divider formula:

Where:

• \( V_{out} \) — Output voltage (volts)
• \( V_{in} \) — Input voltage (volts)
• \( R1 \) — First resistor value (ohms)
• \( R2 \) — Second resistor value (ohms)

Explanation: The output voltage is proportional to the ratio of R2 to the total resistance (R1 + R2).

3. Importance of Voltage Division

Details: Voltage dividers are fundamental in electronics for creating reference voltages, biasing transistors, and interfacing different voltage level circuits.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the input voltage and both resistor values. All values must be positive numbers. The output will be calculated automatically.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the maximum current through the resistors?
A: Current = V_in/(R1 + R2). Ensure resistors can handle this power (P = I²R).

Q2: Can I use this for AC voltage?
A: Yes, but only for instantaneous voltage calculations. For AC, consider impedance instead of resistance.

Q3: What if I know V_out but need to find R1 or R2?
A: Rearrange the formula: R2 = R1 × (V_out/(V_in - V_out)).

Q4: How accurate is this calculation?
A: This is theoretical. Real-world factors like resistor tolerance and load effects may alter results.

Q5: What's a typical application?
A: Creating 3.3V from 5V for microcontrollers (use R1=1.7kΩ, R2=3.3kΩ).