NodeLoop

Voltage Divider Calculator

Calculate output voltage (Vout) and total current (Itotal).

Input Values

Volts
Ohms (Ω)
Ohms (Ω)
Voltage Divider Circuit Diagram Vin source, R1 et R2 en série, Vout prélevé entre les deux résistances. + − Vin 5.0 V R1 1.0 kΩ R2 1.0 kΩ 2.5 V

CALCULATED RESULTS

Output Voltage (Vout)

--- V

Total Current (Itotal)

--- mA

Understanding Voltage Dividers

A voltage divider is a simple passive linear circuit that produces an output voltage (Vout) that is a fraction of its input voltage (Vin). It is formed by two resistors (R1 and R2) connected in series.

Formula

The output voltage is calculated using the formula:

Vout = Vin * (R2 / (R1 + R2))

The total current flowing through the series resistors is:

Itotal = Vin / (R1 + R2)

Applications

  • Providing a reference voltage.
  • Reducing a voltage to a level suitable for an ADC (Analog-to-Digital Converter).
  • Level shifting logic signals (with considerations).

Important Considerations

  • Loading Effect: The output voltage can be affected if the load connected to Vout draws significant current. The load resistance should be much larger than R2 (typically at least 10 times) to minimize this effect.
  • Power Dissipation: Resistors must be rated to handle the power they will dissipate: P = I2R or P = V2/R.
  • Tolerance: The actual output voltage will vary based on the tolerance of the resistors used.