Voltage Divider Circuit Calculator - For NTC Thermistor
A thermistor is an electronic temperature-sensing device, which exhibits a change in resistance with a relative change in temperature. The name derives from two other words, "thermal resistor". For temperature measurement and control applications, Negative Temperature Coefficient (NTC) devices are generally used. The "-t°" in the circuit symbol usually denotes an NTC device. These components are very useful for interfacing projects with microcontrollers. To use this device properly to measure temperature, a potential divider (PD) network is often the ideal circuit arrangement.
As temperature increases, Vout increases
Potential Divider Formula - With NTC
Calculator
As temperature increases, Vout decreases
Potential Divider Formula - With NTC
Calculator
NTC Temperature to Resistance
This is the standard formula from my data book, which shows how to calculate the resistance R at any particular temperature T.
RT0 is the resistance in ohms at a given temperature T0, which you will find in the datasheet of the device you are using. The device rating is typically a resistance value at a particular temperature, such as 4.7 kΩ at 25 °C.
Hence, RT0 = 4700 Ω and T0 = (25 °C + 273.15)
The formula requires all the temperaturesto be in kelvin (K) hence you need to convert by adding 273.15. The beta constant value ß is also another parameter specific for the device you are using, usually ound in the documentation for the device you are using.
NTC Charts
Manufacturers often provide a chart specific to their NTC component showing the resistance at various temperatures.
If you are unable to calculate the value, then a chart may be very useful. Unfortunately, each chart is specific for a device; hence, you will need to find this information from the manufacturer.
Related Articles
Thermistor SymbolPotential Divider With NTC Thermistor