A simple voltage splitter circuit using uA741 operational amplifier to split one power supply into two equal sections, creating a virtual ground in the center.
This is helpful for projects that require two power supplies but only have one source of power.
The current capacity of this circuit relies on the specifications of the op-amp being used.
It is essential to note that this power supply circuit is suitable only for small loads that draw less than 40mA.
The operational amplifier ensures that the voltage division remains stable and even.
Circuit Working:
Parts List:
| Component | Specification | Quantity |
|---|---|---|
| Resistor | 100k 1/4 Watt | 2 |
| IC | uA741 Op-Amp | 1 |
This circuit is made to take one power supply and split it into two equal parts: +V/2 and -V/2.
The key part of this circuit is the uA741 operational amplifier, which serves as a voltage follower or buffer to maintain a steady voltage at the center point.
The resistors R1 and R2 each with a value of 100k create a voltage divider that produces a midpoint voltage of V/2.
This midpoint voltage is directed to the non-inverting input pin 3 of the operational amplifier.
In this arrangement the operational amplifier functions as a voltage follower meaning the output pin 6 reflects the voltage at the non-inverting input pin 3.
The feedback loop guarantees that the output remains exactly at V/2.
Thanks to the operational amplifiers low output impedance, it can supply or absorb small currents, which helps maintain a stable virtual ground.
Formulas with Calculations:
Below are the formulas with calculations for Simple Voltage Splitter Circuit using uA741 Op-Amp:
Voltage Divider Equation:
Vmid = Vsupply * (R2 / (R1 + R2))
where,
- Vmid calculates the midpoint voltage created by two resistors R1 and R2
- Vsupply is the supply voltage
- R1 and R2 are the voltage divider resistors
Since R1 = R2 = 100k the equation simplifies to:
Vmid = Vsupply * (100k / (100k + 100k))
Vmid = Vsupply / 2
Op-Amp Voltage Follower Gain:
Vout = Vin
where,
- Vout is the output voltage of the circuit
- Vin is the input voltage of the circuit
Since the op-amp is configured as a voltage follower the output voltage remains equal to the input voltage at the non-inverting terminal.
How to Build:
To build a Simple Voltage Splitter Circuit using uA741 Op-Amp follow the below mentioned steps for connections and assembling:
- Gather all the components as mentioned in the above circuit diagram
- Connect pin 2 inverting Input of IC1 to pin 6 of the output to form a voltage follower.
- Connect pin 3 of IC1 Non-Inverting Input between resistors R1 and R2 to from the resistor divider
- Connect pin 4 of IC1 to -V/2 of the circuit
- Connect pin 6 of IC1 to 0V of output voltage
- Connect pin 7 of IC1 to +V/2 of the circuit
- Connect resistor R1 and R2 from +V in series to -V supply of the circuit
Conclusion:
This Simple Voltage Splitter Circuit using uA741 Op-Amp creates a steady virtual ground splitting the supply voltage into two equal parts.
It is helpful in situations where you need a dual power supply but only have one available.
The op-amp keeps the output impedance low and maintains stability making it a dependable choice for different analog circuits.