EEEN 311: ELECTRIC CIRCUITS THEORY

LAB EXPERIMENT 01
THEVENIN THEOREM & MAXIMUM POWER TRANSFER

NAME: KAYANI KEITUMETSE

STUDENT ID: 22000635
COURSE: COMPUTER AND TELECOMMUNICATIONS
ENGINEERING
Contents
ABSTRACT ................................................................................................................................ 3
INTRODUCTION ...................................................................................................................... 4
THEORY .................................................................................................................................... 6
Reduced circuit-2 .................................................................................................................... 7
OBJECTIVES ........................................................................................................................... 11
APPARATUS ........................................................................................................................... 11
PROCEDURE ........................................................................................................................... 11
Practical circuit of figure 2.0................................................................................................. 11
RESULTS AND ANALYSIS ................................................................................................... 13
DISCUSSION ........................................................................................................................... 16
RECOMMENDATION ............................................................................................................ 16
CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 17
REFERENCES.......................................................................................................................... 17
ABSTRACT
This report presents a comprehensive analysis of Thevenin’s Theorem and its application to a
complex resistive network. The experiment investigates the simplification of a DC circuit
using Thevenin’s equivalent voltage (VTH) and resistance (RTH) to study the relationship
between maximum power transfer and load resistance. A three-step analysis was conducted
on a given circuit consisting of various resistive components to determine VTH and RTH .
Each circuit configuration was tested and analyzed theoretically and experimentally, with the
results used to calculate the power absorbed by different load resistances. The results were
then verified through MATLAB simulations, and the optimal load resistance for maximum
power transfer was identified. A comparative discussion between the theoretical and
experimental values of VTH is also included to highlight the sources of variation.
INTRODUCTION
Thevenin's Theorem is a fundamental tool in electrical engineering for simplifying complex
linear circuits into a single voltage source (VTH) and a series resistor (RTH) from the
perspective of two terminals. This process facilitates the analysis of power dissipation and the
optimization of load conditions for maximum power transfer. This report examines a three-
step approach to applying Thevenin’s Theorem to a DC network and evaluates how the
theorem simplifies circuit analysis.
When using this theorem:
a) Determine the Thevenin resistance by eliminating all voltage sources and the load
from the circuit.
b) Calculate the Thevenin voltage by reconnecting the voltage sources.
c) Use the calculated Thevenin resistance and voltage to determine the total current
passing through the load.
The circuits below were utilized for this experiment.
The figure below shows the circuit used with a voltage source and a load RL.

Figure P1 DC network
The figure below was used to find the Thevenin voltage (VTH)

FigureP2 measure of the Thevenin voltage

The figure below was used to find the Thevenin resistance (RTH) with an internal resistance
(r)
 FigureP3 measure of Thevenin resistance

The maximum power transfer theorem states that “the maximum amount of power will be
dissipated in the load resistance if it is equal in value to the Thevenin or Norton source
resistance of the network supplying the power”. [2]
To find the maximum power transfer, the following steps are followed;
 Replace the original circuit with the Thevenin equivalent circuit (VTH in series with RTH).
 Analyze the circuit for various load resistances (RL).
 Calculate the power dissipated across RL.
 Apply the maximum power transfer theorem, which states that maximum power transfer
occurs when RL = RTH
THEORY
The Thevenin Theorem and Maximum Power Transfer Theorem are fundamental concepts in
electrical and electronics engineering, providing key methods for simplifying intricate circuits
and maximizing power transfer efficiency.
Thevenin's Theorem is a crucial concept in linear electrical circuits. It allows for the
simplification of complex circuits by representing them as an equivalent circuit, consisting of
a single voltage source in series with a resistor connected to a load. This simplification aids
engineers in circuit analysis and design by reducing the complexity of internal circuit
components. The Thevenin voltage (Vth) is the open-circuit voltage measured between two
terminals, while the Thevenin resistance (Rth) is the equivalent resistance observed from these
terminals when all independent sources are deactivated.

Figure 1.0 showing Thevenin equivalent circuit.

The Maximum Power Transfer Theorem is a principle in electrical engineering that focuses on
optimizing power utilization within circuits. It suggests that to achieve maximum power
transmission efficiency in a DC network with minimal internal resistance, the resistance of the
load (RL) should equal the Thevenin resistance (Rth) of the source. When RL matches Rth,
the circuit delivers its highest possible power output to the load. This theorem is particularly
crucial in applications where power efficiency is paramount, such as in audio amplification
and gearbox systems. In essence, it guides engineers in configuring circuits for optimal power
transfer, minimizing energy loss.

Figure 1.1 showing maximum power transfer

circuit.
1. Determine the Thevenin voltage between the terminals A and B showing all the steps of the
calculation solution.

FIGURE 1.0

Find voltage across R4 resistor.

Reduced circuit-1

Reduced circuit-2
Computation of Vth

Simulation for Vth

2. Determine the Thevenin resistance between the same terminals..

i) short circuit voltage sources and find resistance through AB.

Computation of Rth
Simulation of Rth

Thevenin-equivalent circuit.

Calculate the power absorbed by the resistor .

3. At which condition the maximum power transfer is guaranteed?
• When RL, the load resistance is equal to the Thevenin resistance.

4. Using Matlab plot the load power when RL varies from 0.47 to 20 per 0.47K

GRAPH FOR LOAD POWER VS LOAD IMPEDANCE

EXPERIMENT
OBJECTIVES
1. To apply Thevenin's theorem to analyze circuits and compare the theoretical and
experimental values of the Thevenin resistance and Thevenin voltage.
2. To maximize the power transfer obtained from the given circuit(s).

APPARATUS
The following materials were used to carry out the experiment

• Variable resistor
• Multimeter
• 2*10kΩ and 2*4.7kΩ resistors
• 10 DC voltage source

PROCEDURE

Practical circuit of figure 2.0

1. Using the circuit of Fig. 2, measure the Thevenin voltage with a voltmeter (or
multimeter). Record this value as Vth
 figure 2.11,
measuring the thevenin voltage
2. Using the circuit of Fig. 3, measure the Thevenin resistance with an ohmmeter (or
multimeter). Record this value as Rth . The power supply must be turned off.
Figure 2.1 , measuring equivalent resistance of the circuit
3. Draw the equivalent circuit using the measured values .

4. Compare the theoretical and experimental values. Conclude.

Theoretical and practical values are relatively the same.

RESULTS AND ANALYSIS

THEORETICAL VALUES
RESISTANCE (KΩ) CURRENT(µA) VOLTAGE(mV)

0.47 448.845 210.957

1 391.743 391.742
 1.5 349.764 524.646
2.2 304.137 669.101
3.3 252.398 832.909
3.9 230.966 900.763
4.7 207.476 975.132
5.7 184.075 1049.000
6.6 167.111 1103.000

MEASURED VALUES
RESISTANCE (KΩ) CURRENT(µA) VOLTAGE(mV)
0.472 465 220.547
1.01067 395.700
1.500431 358 528.014
2.28172 308 6888.054
3.30299 257 838.365
3.91849 240 908.541
4.78668 211 989.142
5.77478 186 1060.944
6.66702 160 1113.925

Comparisons of the theoretical and the experimental of absorbed power as a function of RL

Plotting the graphs it was evident that the graphs have similar shape with very slight
difference due to the slight difference of resistor values and inaccuracies..

Figure 1.0 showing graph of the theoritcal values calculated.

Figure 2.0 showing graph of the experimental values

As shown the graph have the same relative shape.

COMPARISON OF THE LOAD POWER VS RL PRACTICAL AND THEORY GRAPHS

Figure 3.0 showing Load power vs RL , theoretical values

Figure 4.0 showing Load power vs RL , experimental values

DISCUSSION
The objective of this experiment was to validate the practical applicability of Thevenin's
Theorem and the Maximum Power Transfer Theorem in the field of electrical engineering. By
systematically constructing simulated circuits, we were able to determine both the Thevenin
voltage and resistance. The results obtained from the experiments closely aligned with the
predicted values, underscoring the accuracy and reliability of Thevenin's theory. Furthermore,
the derivation of equivalent circuits effectively simplified complex systems into more
manageable representations.

The experimental outcomes consistently supported the principles outlined by both the
Thevenin Theorem and the Maximum Power Transfer Theorem. Graphical representations of
absorbed power as a function of load resistance exhibited trends that were in close agreement
with theoretical expectations. The comparison between the theoretical and actual load power
graphs revealed similar behaviors, reaffirming the practical relevance of these theorems in
real-world applications.

In summary, this experiment provided robust validation for the dependability and utility of
Thevenin's Theorem and the Maximum Power Transfer Theorem. It successfully bridged the
gap between theoretical concepts and practical implementation, yielding valuable insights into
circuit behavior and the optimal conditions for efficient power transfer within electrical
engineering contexts.

RECOMMENDATION
To enhance the accuracy and safety of laboratory experiments involving Thevenin's Theorem,
it is crucial to adhere to a structured methodology. When setting up the circuit for analysis,
ensure that connections are secure, wire polarities are correct, and component values are
double-checked to prevent errors. Following these precautions will facilitate a smoother
experimental process and yield more reliable results.

CONCLUSION
This experiment effectively demonstrated the utility of Thevenin's Theorem in circuit
analysis. The achievement of this goal was facilitated by establishing clear objectives, along
with the careful collection, processing, and analysis of data before, during, and after the
experimental procedure. The findings confirm that Thevenin's theorem serves as a powerful
tool for simplifying circuit analysis and enhancing our understanding of electrical systems.

REFERENCES
 Alexander, C. K., & Sadiku, M. N. O. (2013). Fundamentals of Electric Circuits (5th
ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
 Hart, D. W. (n.d.). The Electrical Engineering Handbook. Retrieved from The
Electrical Engineering Handbook
 MATLAB & Simulink. (n.d.). Power and Control System Toolbox. Retrieved from
https://www.mathworks.com/products/power-control.html.
 Electronics Hub. (n.d.). What is Maximum Power Transfer Theorem?. Retrieved from
https://www.electronicshub.org/maximum-power-transfer-theorem/.