If we want to have some terminal voltage other than these standard ones, then series or parallel combination of the batteries should be done. One more reason for connecting the batteries in series or parallel is to increase the terminal voltage and current sourcing capacity respectively. Connection diagram : Figure 1.
The main difference between batteries in series and parallel is the way that they are connected. Batteries in series are connected end-to-end so that the voltage of each battery adds up. This is useful if you need a high voltage for your device. Batteries in parallel are connected side-by-side so that the current of each battery adds up.
When batteries are connected in series, the voltages of the individual batteries add up, resulting in a higher overall voltage. For example, if two 6-volt batteries are connected in series, the total voltage would be 12 volts. Effects of Series Connections on Current In a series connection, the current remains constant throughout the batteries.
Definition and Explanation of Parallel Connections In a parallel connection, batteries are connected side by side, with their positive terminals connected together and their negative terminals connected together. This results in an increase in the total current, while the voltage across the batteries remains the same.
Wiring batteries in both series and parallel configurations is possible and is so beneficial that be used in many power systems. To wire batteries in a series-parallel setup, first connect pairs of batteries in series by linking the positive terminal of one battery to the negative terminal of the next.
Consider the example of two batteries connected in parallel: Battery A has a voltage of 6 volts and a current of 2 amps, while Battery B has a voltage of 6 volts and a current of 3 amps. When connected in parallel, the total voltage remains at 6 volts, but the total current increases to 5 amps. Advantages and Disadvantages of Parallel Connections