Calculate the voltage drop across a wire based on current, length, and resistance.
Circuit Parameters
Voltage Drop Results
Overview
Voltage drop is the decrease of electrical potential along the path of a current flowing in an electrical circuit. It is caused by the internal resistance of the conductors.
💡
Pro Tips
Formula: V = I * R * L (for DC)
I: Current in Amperes
R: Resistance per unit length (e.g., Ohms/meter)
L: Length of the wire (e.g., meters)
For AC circuits, power factor and reactance may also need to be considered.
!
Fun Facts
"Excessive voltage drop can cause lights to flicker or equipment to malfunction."
"The National Electrical Code (NEC) recommends a maximum voltage drop of 3% for branch circuits."
"Thicker wires (lower gauge number) have less resistance and therefore less voltage drop."
