What they look like

The Voltage Sensor is used to measure the potential difference between the ends of an electrical component and is therefore connected across (i.e. in parallel with) the component. Voltage Sensors can be used in conjunction with a Current Sensor anywhere in a circuit.

What they look like

If a Voltage Sensor is connected to a voltage supply without being part of a complete circuit, the data collected may appear ’noisy’. To measure voltage accurately, high impedance (resistance) is needed. High impedance will ensure that the current will flow round the circuit instead of going through the Voltage Sensor.

For reasons of accuracy, if more than one Voltage Sensor is being used in a circuit, ensure they share a common earth (the same black lead).

Where it can be used

• Ohm’s Law
• Series and parallel circuits
• Electromagnetic Induction in a coil
• apacitor charge and discharge curves
• Electrical component characteristics
• Analysing A.C. voltage supplies
• RMS value of an A.C. supply
• Using a voltage sensor with a computer eliminates the need in most cases to use an oscilloscope in the classroom. The same applies for a sensor microphone.