Circuits - DC Power pack (6-pin) questions?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around questions related to a DC power pack with a 6-pin configuration, focusing on understanding potential differences between various voltage pins (5V, 12V, -12V) and the concept of grounding in circuits. Participants explore the implications of voltage measurements and reference points in circuitry.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about comparing the potential difference between 12V and 5V due to the lack of a common ground reference.
  • Another participant clarifies that voltage is a relative measurement and confirms that the potential difference between +12V and +5V is indeed 7V.
  • A participant acknowledges confusion regarding the necessity of a ground reference in circuits and seeks reassurance about their understanding.
  • Multiple participants inquire about the determination of potential between -12V and COM, indicating a possible misunderstanding of the questions.
  • Some participants reflect on their earlier mistakes regarding the interpretation of voltage questions, particularly distinguishing between -12V and 12V in their responses.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

There is no clear consensus on the interpretation of the voltage measurements or the necessity of a ground reference, as participants express differing levels of understanding and make corrections to their earlier claims.

Contextual Notes

Participants demonstrate varying familiarity with the concept of grounding and voltage measurement, leading to confusion about reference points in their calculations. Some assumptions about the circuit arrangement and connections are not fully articulated.

Ascendant78
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Homework Statement


mcummq.jpg


Homework Equations


While equations should be unnecessary to solve these questions, I am not sure if I have done so properly.

The Attempt at a Solution


Well, I placed my answers on the paper already. I am unsure about the potential difference between 12V and 5V, as since neither are grounded, I'm not sure how they have any frame of reference to compare to one another. I'm also not sure about the next 2 questions since only the 5V pin is grounded, but I feel based on my familiarity with circuitry, so long as the 5V and 12V were attached to each other, my answers are correct. Any advice on the right way to look at these (or if I am looking at them wrong and got any wrong answers) would be greatly appreciated.
 
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look at it this way. If there are 12V between +12 and com, and there are 5V between +5 and com, then there will be 7 v (like you said) between +12 and +5. in order for a voltage to be "12V" it has to be "12V" above something else. Voltage is a relative measurement.

all your answers look correct!
 
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Well thank you for the feedback. I just wanted to make sure I was looking at it correctly, as the whole concept of a ground being necessary in a circuit as a reference point and some of this not having that reference point threw me a bit off.
 
How did you determine (d), the potential between -12v and COM?
 
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NascentOxygen said:
How did you determine (d), the potential between -12v and COM?

I think I messed up and thought the question was asking the same thing as (c), but with the -12V instead of 12V. After you made me take another look at it, I'm now thinking it should be -12V for (d).
 
How would you explain what circuit arrangement or connections lie behind the pin labelled GROUND?
 
NascentOxygen said:
How did you determine (d), the potential between -12v and COM?
oops, I didn't catch that either :/
 
Ascendant78 said:
I think I messed up and thought the question was asking the same thing as (c), but with the -12V instead of 12V. After you made me take another look at it, I'm now thinking it should be -12V for (d).
Yes, it is -12V.
 

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