With the proliferation of electronic equipment in modern buildings, harmonics in low voltage distribution systems have received a great deal of attention. This paper discusses harmonic voltage control using a shunt active harmonic filter based on a voltage detection method. The control method is discussed first. Compensating currents at individual harmonic orders are generated via the transformation of three-phase voltages into d-axis and q-axis voltages on the synchronous reference frame at harmonic frequencies of concern. A complex control factor, which can be adjusted in both amplitude and phase angle is introduced to achieve optimal operation of the filter under different natures of supply network. Simulation results by computer software are obtained and presented finally to demonstrate the effectiveness of the active harmonic filter.