Voltage Divider:

A voltage divider, or network, is used whenever it is necessary to acquire various values of voltage from a single energy source. The simple voltage divider is display in Figure.  Within this circuit, 24 volts is applied to three resistors in series.  The overall resistance limits the current through the circuit to one ampere.  Individual voltages are found as follows by using the given equation (2-12).

Figure:  Voltage Divider

Total current: I = V/ R = 24/4+8+12 =24/24 = 1amp                   (2-12)

Voltage drop across AB: V=IR

= (1) (4)

V= 4 Volts

Voltage drop across BC: V=IR

= (1) (8)

V= 8 Volts

Voltage drop across CD: V=IR

= (1) (12)

V= 12 Volts

Total voltage drop AC: V=IR

= (1) (8+4) =(1)(12)

V= 12 Volts