1. What is a Series Resistor Voltage Divider?

Definition: A voltage divider is a simple circuit that turns a large voltage into a smaller one using two resistors in series.

Purpose: It's commonly used in electronics to create reference voltages, reduce signal levels, or interface between different voltage circuits.

2. How Does the Voltage Divider Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

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

3. Importance of Voltage Dividers

Details: Voltage dividers are fundamental in circuit design for creating reference voltages, biasing transistors, and scaling sensor outputs.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens if R1 = R2?
A: The output voltage will be exactly half of the input voltage (V_out = V_in/2).

Q2: Can I use this for AC voltages?
A: Yes, but only for instantaneous voltage calculations. For AC, you need to consider frequency effects on the resistors.

Q3: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's theoretically perfect for ideal resistors. In practice, resistor tolerance and temperature effects may cause small variations.

Q4: What's the maximum current through the divider?
A: I = V_in/(R1 + R2). Ensure resistors can handle this power (P = I²R).

Q5: Why not use a potentiometer instead?
A: Potentiometers can be used as adjustable voltage dividers, but fixed resistors are more stable and reliable for fixed ratios.