AC vs DC Simulation: Understanding the Difference

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the differences between AC and DC voltage simulations, specifically comparing a 10 V DC circuit to a 10 V peak-to-peak AC circuit. The user observed a load voltage of 1.6667 V for the DC circuit and 1.6602 V for the AC circuit, prompting questions about the theoretical basis for this discrepancy. The conversation highlights the importance of using RMS (Root Mean Square) values for AC voltage comparisons, as RMS provides an effective value that is directly comparable to DC voltage. The user was advised that their simulation results align with theoretical expectations when considering RMS values.

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  • Understanding of AC and DC voltage characteristics
  • Knowledge of RMS (Root Mean Square) calculations
  • Familiarity with circuit simulation tools
  • Basic principles of electrical engineering
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  • Explore circuit simulation software such as LTspice or Multisim
  • Study the differences in load voltage behavior between AC and DC circuits
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Electrical engineering students, circuit designers, and anyone interested in understanding the nuances of AC and DC voltage behavior in circuit simulations.

DivGradCurl
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I have a simple question about AC/DC. I expected a circuit with a given DC voltage to be equivalent to one with an AC voltage whose value (peak-to-peak) is the same (at least theoretically). For 10 V DC, I get a load voltage of 1.6667 V, whereas 10 Vp-p AC gives 1.6602 V (simulation). Are there theoretical grounds behind this result? Since my simulation was run under ideal conditions, I think I should get the same result, but it's not the case. I would like to understand why. By the way, snapshots of the circuits are attached.

Any help is highly appreciated.

NOTE: THE PROBES USED IN MY SIMULATION ARE ACROSS THE "RL" ONLY (NOT EXACTLY AS SHOWN IN THE FIGURES)
 

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Im not sure-- but don't you use RMS not Peak to Peak>??
 
This really explains a lot. The RMS is the effective AC voltage value which is comparable to Vdc.

Thanks for your input.
 

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