Resistance Value Analysis Study using the Wheatstone bridge circuit method and the Circuit Wizard and Proteus 8 simulators

Abstract

The Wheatstone bridge circuit is one configuration resistor circuit that serves to measure changes in resistance (resistance) is very small, and has been widely used in circuits sensors. This circuit is arranged like a rhombus, at least four resistors (R1, R2, R3, R4), one of which is a resistor not fixed (R3) which usually uses a variable resistor. Then, one of them is a resistor whose resistance value is sought (R4). This study aims to explore a series of bridges Wheatstone with three scenarios. First, the search for one of the the correct value of the resistor (R4) when the state is balanced, or when the current is flow at point AB is equal to Zero (IAB = 0 A). Second, measure Wheatstone bridge voltage (VAB) with varying resistor values. Third, look for one of the resistor values (R4), the replacement resistance value of all resistance (REq) at the state of balance, and the total current flows (ITotal) in the Wheatstone bridge circuit when VAB = 0 Volts. The analysis utilizes two offline simulators, namely Circuit Wizard v.1.15 and Proteus v.8.5. Then the simulation results all three are compared with theoretical calculations. Simulation results of The three simulators prove that the current and voltage values on the Wheatstone circuit is in accordance with theoretical calculations, where IAB = 0 A and VAB = 0 V if the state is balanced. In no state equilibrium, then there will be a current flowing from point A to point B so there is a potential difference, where the value of this potential difference is the same
 with VA – VB. This article also examines the performance and trade-offs of the three simulators when experimenting with circuits Wheatstone bridge based on hands-on experience from the researcher's point of view