1. What is Wheatstone Bridge Voltage?

The Wheatstone bridge is a circuit used to measure unknown electrical resistances. The bridge voltage (Vb) represents the potential difference between the two voltage dividers when the bridge is not balanced.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Wheatstone bridge voltage equation:

Where:

• \( V \) — Supply voltage (V)
• \( R1, R2, R3, R4 \) — Bridge resistors (Ω)
• \( V_b \) — Bridge output voltage (V)

Explanation: The equation calculates the voltage difference between the two voltage dividers formed by R1-R2 and R3-R4.

3. Importance of Bridge Voltage Calculation

Details: Calculating bridge voltage is essential for sensor applications, strain gauge measurements, and precision resistance measurements. It helps determine when the bridge is balanced (Vb = 0) or unbalanced.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter supply voltage in volts and all resistor values in ohms. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the voltage difference across the bridge.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What does Vb = 0 mean?
A: When Vb = 0, the bridge is balanced, meaning R2/R1 = R4/R3. This is used to find unknown resistances.

Q2: What are typical applications of Wheatstone bridges?
A: Used in strain gauges, load cells, temperature sensors, and other precision measurement applications.

Q3: How does bridge voltage relate to sensitivity?
A: Higher supply voltage (V) increases bridge sensitivity, but may cause self-heating in resistors.

Q4: What happens if all resistors are equal?
A: With R1=R2=R3=R4, Vb will be 0V (balanced bridge) regardless of supply voltage.

Q5: Can this calculator be used for AC bridges?
A: This calculates DC bridge voltage only. AC bridges require consideration of impedance phase angles.