Resistor network calculator — ladder & combos
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Network type
Loaded divider output
Unloaded V_out
V_in × R2 ÷ (R1 + R2)
Loaded V_out
V_in × (R2∥RL) ÷ (R1 + R2∥RL)
Load current
V_out ÷ RL
Sag from loading
(unloaded − loaded) ÷ unloaded
Rule of thumb: keep RL at least 10× R2 so the divider stays within a few percent of its unloaded value.
About the model
The loaded divider treats the load as a pure resistance in parallel with R2; the R-2R ladder assumes the standard alternating-R network driven from a low-impedance reference; and the attenuator pads are designed to match Z at both ports. All three assume ideal resistors — real parts add tolerance, temperature drift and parasitic capacitance that shift the numbers, especially above a few hundred MHz.
For the parts themselves: resistors, resistor networks and RF components cover the divider, ladder and pad builds above.
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