Measuring Voltage Divider Output with Real Voltmeters

In summary, a voltage divider is an electronic circuit that divides a voltage into smaller fractions using two resistors connected in series. The purpose of measuring its output is to determine the voltage across a specific resistor in the circuit, which can help analyze the overall performance and behavior. To measure the output, a voltmeter is needed and it should be connected to the output and ground connections. A real voltmeter is a physical device with a display, probes, and internal circuitry that converts voltage signals into readable values. Factors such as quality, calibration, temperature, and resistance of the resistors can affect the accuracy of measuring voltage divider output with real voltmeters.
  • #1
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Homework Statement



How do you measure the output of a voltage divider with real voltmeters that have effective resistances

Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution



I know that for an ideal voltmeter (one with infinite resistance), the voltage divider is R2/(R1+R2), but I don't know what to do when the voltmeters have effective resistances. Any help would be great!
 
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  • #2
Instead of considering the voltmeter as an effective "open circuit" at the point of measurement, which is equivalent to an infinite parallel resistance, substitute it for (i.e. model it as) a finite resistance, say Rv.
 

FAQ: Measuring Voltage Divider Output with Real Voltmeters

What is a voltage divider?

A voltage divider is an electronic circuit that divides a voltage into smaller fractions. It consists of two resistors connected in series, with the output taken from the connection between the two resistors.

What is the purpose of measuring voltage divider output?

Measuring voltage divider output is important for determining the voltage across a specific resistor in the circuit, which can help in analyzing the overall performance and behavior of the circuit.

How do I measure voltage divider output?

To measure voltage divider output, you will need a voltmeter. Connect the positive lead of the voltmeter to the output connection of the voltage divider, and the negative lead to the ground connection. The voltmeter will display the voltage across the resistor.

What is a real voltmeter?

A real voltmeter is a physical device that measures voltage in a circuit. It typically consists of a digital or analog display, a set of probes or leads, and internal circuitry that converts the voltage signal into a readable value.

What are some factors that can affect the accuracy of measuring voltage divider output with real voltmeters?

The accuracy of measuring voltage divider output can be affected by factors such as the quality and calibration of the voltmeter, temperature, and the resistance and tolerance of the resistors used in the voltage divider circuit.

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