Voltage Divider Network Calculator

Voltage Divider Formula:

\[ V_{out} = V_{in} \times \frac{\sum R_{bottom}}{\sum R_{total}} \]

Output Voltage (V_out):

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1. What is a Voltage Divider Network?

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

Purpose: It's commonly used in electronics to create reference voltages, reduce voltage levels for measurement, or provide adjustable voltage outputs.

2. How Does the Voltage Divider Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ V_{out} = V_{in} \times \frac{R_2}{R_1 + R_2} \]

Where:

\( V_{out} \) — Output voltage (volts)
\( V_{in} \) — Input voltage (volts)
\( R_1 \) — Top resistor (ohms)
\( R_2 \) — Bottom resistor (ohms)

Explanation: The output voltage is proportional to the ratio of the bottom resistor to the total resistance.

3. Importance of Voltage Dividers

Details: Voltage dividers are fundamental in circuit design for signal conditioning, biasing transistors, and creating reference voltages.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the input voltage and both resistor values. All values must be > 0. For multiple resistors, combine series resistors into single values.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens if I use equal resistors?
A: With R1 = R2, the output voltage will be exactly half of the input voltage.

Q2: Can I use this for AC signals?
A: Yes, but only if the frequency is low enough that capacitive effects can be ignored.

Q3: How does load affect the output?
A: Any load connected to Vout will effectively parallel R2, changing the divider ratio. Keep load impedance much higher than R2.

Q4: What's the maximum current through the divider?
A: I = Vin/(R1 + R2). Choose resistors with appropriate power ratings (P = I²R).

Q5: Can I make an adjustable voltage divider?
A: Yes, replace R2 with a potentiometer to create an adjustable voltage reference.