Networks I

Course No. 0909-201-01

Fall 1997, 2nd Quarter

Project 1: Written report due Wednesday, November 12

(see project policies posted after the problem statement)
This project will count towards extra-credit for the final course grade.

Problem Statement
You are required to design a voltage divider circuit (R₁, R₂) that reduces the source voltage (v_s) by 25%. The voltage source is non-ideal and possesses an internal resistance, R_s = 125 W. Furthermore, the output voltage of the voltage divider circuit, v_o, is measured using a non-ideal voltmeter, which presents a resistance, R_m = 10 kW. A block-diagram of the entire system is shown in the accompanying figure.

Select resistors R₁, R₂ such that the error introduced in the output voltage by R_s and R_m is minimized. In other words, your goal is to choose R₁, R₂ in order to minimize the difference between the values of the output voltages, for an ideal case (where R_s= 0 and R_m = infinity) and the actual case (where R_s= 125 W and R_m = 10 kW).

What is the minimum value of the error?

Here's a suggested action plan:

Determine the output voltage for the ideal case, v_o.
Determine the output voltage for the actual case, v'_o.
Formulate an error measure based on v_o and v'_o.
Determine R₁, R₂ so that the error measure is minimized.
Compute the minimum error.

Project Policies:

You are encouraged to work on this project in teams (NOT MORE THAN 5 STUDENTS / TEAM). I suggest that the entire class meet during regular class hour in 116 Bosshart on Friday at 9:00 AM. Discuss the project, formulate solutions (if you wish) and form your own teams.
Each team submits a project report (preferably typed - although I will accept NEATLY handwritten reports) which indicates:

Names of all students on the team
The problem statement.
Assumptions made
Solution procedure
Final circuit diagram
Conclusions

SHOULD NOT EXCEED 3 pages

Good Luck!
And remember, neatness will be amply rewarded!!!

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