Voltage Divider Formula:
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Definition: This calculator determines the output voltage ratio of a simple two-resistor voltage divider circuit.
Purpose: It helps electronics engineers, technicians, and hobbyists design and analyze voltage divider networks.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The ratio represents what fraction of the input voltage appears across R2. Multiply this ratio by the input voltage to get the output voltage.
Details: Accurate voltage divider calculations are essential for creating reference voltages, signal conditioning, and impedance matching in electronic circuits.
Tips: Enter the values of both resistors in ohms. The ratio output will be between 0 and 1. All values must be > 0.
Q1: What's the practical application of voltage dividers?
A: They're used for reducing voltage levels, creating reference voltages, and as part of sensor circuits.
Q2: How do I get the actual output voltage?
A: Multiply the ratio by your input voltage. For example, with 5V input: Vout = Ratio × 5V.
Q3: What happens if R1 = R2?
A: The ratio becomes 0.5, meaning the output is exactly half the input voltage.
Q4: Why does the ratio have no units?
A: It's a dimensionless quantity representing the proportion of input voltage that appears at the output.
Q5: What resistor values should I use?
A: Choose values that don't draw excessive current (typically in the kΩ range) while maintaining good signal strength.