Calculation Notes
This tool calculates the maximum current a trace can carry. Internal trace values are the results for a trace within a multilayer, although outer traces that are potted or insulated should also use internal values. Outer trace values are the results for a trace that is exposed to the air, normally on the top or bottom layers of a circuit.
Factors that influence the current calculation include:-
- Trace width (w)
- Trace thickness (t)
- Temperature rise (ΔT)
- Trace length (l)
i_{ext} \approx 0.028 \times {\Delta T}^{0.46} \times w^{0.76} \times t^{0.54}\; (external trace max current)
i_{int} \approx 0.014 \times {\Delta T}^{0.46} \times w^{0.76} \times t^{0.54}\; (internal trace max current)
References:
- Electrical Circuit Theory and Technology (ISBN 978-1-85617-770-2)
- Douglas Brooks, "Temperature Rise in PCB Traces", 1998
Disclaimer: The information and this tool are provided with no liability of any kind whatsoever, use at your own risk.