1. What is the Watts Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes electrical power in watts based on voltage and current using Ohm's Law.

Purpose: It helps electricians, engineers, and DIY enthusiasts determine power consumption or generation in electrical circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

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

Explanation: The product of voltage and current gives the power consumed or delivered by an electrical device.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation ensures proper circuit design, prevents overloads, and helps estimate energy consumption.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the voltage in volts and current in amps. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use this for AC circuits?
A: This gives apparent power for AC. For true power, you'd need to include power factor (P = V × I × PF).

Q2: What's a typical household voltage?
A: In North America, 120V for standard outlets and 240V for large appliances. Europe uses 230V.

Q3: How does this relate to energy consumption?
A: Energy (kWh) = Power (kW) × Time (hours). This calculator gives instantaneous power.

Q4: What if I know resistance instead of current?
A: Use P = V²/R or P = I²R. We can create separate calculators for these formulas.

Q5: What's the maximum power for standard outlets?
A: Typically 1800W (15A × 120V) in North America to prevent circuit overload.