Voltage Divider Calculator 2 Resistors

Voltage Divider Formula:

\[ V_{out} = V_{in} \times \frac{R2}{R1 + R2} \]

Output Voltage (V_out):

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1. What is a Voltage Divider Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the output voltage from a voltage divider circuit consisting of two resistors.

Purpose: It helps electronics engineers, students, and hobbyists design and analyze simple voltage divider circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the voltage divider formula:

\[ V_{out} = V_{in} \times \frac{R2}{R1 + R2} \]

Where:

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

Explanation: The input voltage is divided proportionally according to the ratio of R2 to the total resistance (R1 + R2).

3. Importance of Voltage Divider Calculation

Details: Voltage dividers are fundamental in electronics for creating reference voltages, biasing circuits, and signal attenuation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the input voltage and both resistor values. All values must be positive numbers.

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 at a given moment in time.

Q3: What's the maximum current through the resistors?
A: I = V_in/(R1 + R2). Ensure resistors can handle this power (P = I²R).

Q4: Why does my measured V_out differ from calculated?
A: Real-world factors like resistor tolerance, load effects, and power supply regulation affect results.

Q5: What if I know V_out and need to find resistors?
A: Choose either R1 or R2, then solve the equation for the other resistor.