What component determines the reference voltage for each comparator?

The reference voltage for each comparator is primarily determined by a voltage-divider network. A voltage-divider comprises two resistors connected in series across a voltage supply, and it provides an output voltage that is a fraction of the input voltage. This output voltage serves as the reference level against which the input signal is compared in the comparator circuit.

In practical applications, this allows for precise setting of the threshold levels at which the comparator changes its output state based on the input signal. The use of a voltage-divider is popular due to its simplicity and effectiveness in providing accurate reference voltages that can be adjusted by changing resistor values.

Other components, like operational amplifiers, primarily function to amplify signals rather than set reference voltages, while current sources provide stable current rather than voltage references. Frequency modulators are related to varying signals in communication rather than providing comparators with reference voltages. Therefore, the voltage-divider network is the key component that determines the reference voltage for comparators in circuits.