1. What is the Watts to Amps Formula?

The basic electrical formula \( I = \frac{P}{V} \) calculates current (in amperes) from power (in watts) and voltage (in volts). This applies to DC circuits or AC circuits with unity power factor.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the fundamental electrical formula:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current in amperes (A)
• \( P \) — Power in watts (W)
• \( V \) — Voltage in volts (V)

Explanation: This formula is derived from Ohm's Law and the basic power equation. For AC circuits with power factor (PF) other than 1, the formula becomes \( I = \frac{P}{V \times PF} \).

3. Importance of Current Calculation

Details: Calculating current is essential for circuit design, selecting appropriate wire sizes, choosing circuit protection devices, and ensuring electrical safety.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter power in watts and voltage in volts. Both values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the current in amperes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Does this work for both AC and DC circuits?
A: Yes, for DC circuits and AC circuits with power factor = 1. For AC with PF ≠ 1, you need to include the power factor in the calculation.

Q2: What is the difference between real power and apparent power?
A: Real power (watts) is the actual power consumed, while apparent power (VA) is the product of voltage and current. For DC or resistive AC loads, they are equal.

Q3: How does this relate to Ohm's Law?
A: This is derived from the power formula \( P = V \times I \), which is related to Ohm's Law \( V = I \times R \).

Q4: What are typical current values in household circuits?
A: In North America, standard circuits are 15A or 20A at 120V. In Europe, typically 10A or 16A at 230V.

Q5: Why is current calculation important for wiring?
A: Current determines the required wire gauge - higher currents need thicker wires to prevent overheating and potential fire hazards.