How to Connect Four 6-Volt Batteries to Make 12 Volts: A Step-by-Step Guide

Whether you are building a vehicle battery, power tool, or any other device that requires a regulated 12-volt power supply, understanding how to connect four 6-volt batteries is crucial. In this article, we will walk you through the process of creating a 12-volt output from four 6-volt batteries using a series and parallel connection method. Let's get started!

Materials Needed:

4 x 6-volt batteries Battery cables or connectors

Steps to Connect in Series:

Identify the Terminals:

Each battery will have a positive terminal ( ) and a negative terminal (-).

Connect the Batteries:

Connect the positive terminal of the first battery to the negative terminal of the second battery. Connect the positive terminal of the second battery to the negative terminal of the third battery. Connect the positive terminal of the third battery to the negative terminal of the fourth battery.

Final Connections:

The negative terminal of the first battery will be your negative output. The positive terminal of the fourth battery will be your positive output.

Diagram:

6V - 6V - 6V - 6V - ---- ---- ---- ---- - 6V - 6V - 6V - 6V

Voltage Output:

The total voltage output will be the sum of the voltages of the batteries connected in series:

6V 6V 6V 6V 24V

To achieve 12 volts, you can connect two pairs of two batteries in series and then connect those pairs in parallel. Here’s how:

Connect two batteries in series as described above to get 12 volts from the first pair. Connect the other two batteries in series to get another 12 volts from the second pair. Connect the positive terminal of the first pair to the positive terminal of the second pair. Connect the negative terminal of the first pair to the negative terminal of the second pair.

This setup will give you a 12-volt output while maintaining the same capacity amp-hour rating as a single pair of batteries.

Important Note:

Ensure that all batteries are of the same type, age, and charge level to prevent damage and ensure optimal performance.

Conclusion:

Connecting four 6-volt batteries to make 12 volts is a straightforward process, but it's important to follow the correct procedure to avoid damage to the batteries or improper functionality. By using the series and parallel connection method described in this guide, you can achieve the desired voltage output safely and efficiently.