1. What is PCB Trace Power Calculation?

The PCB trace power calculation determines how much power is dissipated as heat in a printed circuit board trace. This is crucial for preventing overheating and ensuring reliable circuit operation.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power dissipation equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power dissipation in watts
• \( I \) — Current through the trace in amps
• \( R_{trace} \) — Resistance of the trace in ohms

Explanation: The power dissipated in a trace increases with the square of the current and linearly with the trace resistance.

3. Importance of Trace Power Calculation

Details: Proper power calculation helps prevent trace overheating, voltage drops, and potential board failure. It's essential for determining appropriate trace widths and copper weights.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter current in amps and trace resistance in ohms. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the power dissipation in watts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How do I determine trace resistance?
A: Trace resistance depends on copper thickness, width, length, and temperature. Use R = ρL/A where ρ is copper resistivity.

Q2: What's a safe power dissipation level?
A: This depends on board material, copper weight, and ambient temperature. Typically keep temperature rise below 10°C for reliability.

Q3: Does trace length affect power dissipation?
A: Yes, longer traces have higher resistance and thus greater power dissipation for the same current.

Q4: How does temperature affect the calculation?
A: Copper resistance increases with temperature (about 0.4% per °C), which increases power dissipation.

Q5: Should I include via resistance?
A: For high-current applications, yes. Vias add small but measurable resistance that contributes to total power dissipation.