Voltage divider

A voltage divider uses series impedances across an input voltage to produce a smaller output voltage at an intermediate point. Its output depends on the impedance values and the load attached.

Voltage divider rule: A formula that gives the voltage across one series impedance as its share of the total series impedance. It expresses the divider’s output directly from the ratio of its series impedances.
Impedance: A measure of opposition to alternating or direct current, including resistance and reactive effects. The divider works with impedances, not only with ideal resistors.
Voltage reference: A circuit or component that provides a stable, known voltage for other circuitry. A divider can scale a reference voltage, though precision applications need stable components and buffering.
Linear regulator: A voltage regulator that controls output by dissipating excess input power in a series pass element. A linear regulator holds its output steadier under load than an unbuffered divider.
Ohm's law: The relationship between voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit. The divider rule follows by combining Ohm’s law with the same current through series elements.
Resistance: The opposition a material or component presents to electric current. In a resistive divider, resistance values set the fraction of input voltage at the output.
Analog-to-digital converter: A device that converts an analog signal into a digital representation. A divider can scale an input signal to fit an ADC’s allowed voltage range.
Switching regulator: A voltage regulator that uses switched energy storage to convert voltage efficiently. A switching regulator can supply useful power at a changed voltage with less dissipation than a divider.
Series circuit: An electrical circuit in which components share a single path for current. A divider’s impedances share current because they are connected in series.
Capacitor: A component that stores energy in an electric field and whose impedance varies with frequency. Capacitors can form frequency-dependent dividers with resistors or other capacitors.

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