Why do you need a common ground when driving a device using a MOSFET and an Arduino?
For example, if a battery that drives a device generates 9 volts, it produces a difference of 9 volts at its two terminals. That is, if you measure the voltage at the battery’s positive terminal with respect to another node in your circuit or circuit, you will not see 9V. The positive pole of the battery is 9 volts higher than the negative pole. This potential difference drives a circuit.
If you are now using an external circuit with the Arduino, the ground voltage of that circuit is not necessarily (and usually never) the ground voltage of the Arduino. Likewise, Arduinos 5V will not be a 5V for this circuit. Therefore, you need a common reference point for both circuits to “ ground ” , from which the voltages of the battery and Arduino are measured. In a more detailed explanation, this would mean why you need a “full” circuit or loop.
Why is it important to have a common ground in the circuits you create?
Having a common ground in electronic circuits is essential for several reasons:
1. Voltage reference: The ground serves as a common reference point for voltage in a circuit. It is typically defined as the point of zero electrical potential and is used as a baseline for measuring voltages at different points in the circuit. Without a common ground, it would be challenging to establish meaningful voltage measurements and reference points.
2. Signal reference: In many electronic systems, signals are referenced to the ground. By connecting all signal sources and destinations to a common ground, you ensure that signals are properly referenced and can be accurately transmitted and received. This helps in maintaining signal integrity and minimizing noise or interference.
3. Safety: Grounding is crucial for safety reasons. In case of a fault or excess current, a properly grounded circuit provides a path for the current to flow safely to the ground, preventing electric shock hazards and protecting the equipment and users.
4. Interconnection: Having a common ground simplifies the interconnection of different circuits and components. It allows for the sharing of power supplies, facilitates the transfer of signals between different sections of a circuit, and enables the integration of various modules or subsystems into a larger system.
5. Compatibility: Many electronic devices and components are designed with the assumption of a common ground. By following this convention, you ensure compatibility and interoperability with other devices and systems. Deviating from a common ground reference could lead to compatibility issues and unreliable operation.
Overall, a common ground in circuits provides a stable reference point for voltages, enables signal transmission and safety, simplifies interconnection, and ensures compatibility with other components and systems. It is a fundamental aspect of circuit design and crucial for reliable and efficient operation.
