1. What is a PCB Plane Current Calculator?

Definition: This calculator estimates the current carrying capacity of a PCB copper plane based on temperature rise, dimensions, and material properties.

Purpose: It helps PCB designers determine appropriate trace widths and copper weights for power distribution.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( I \) — Current capacity (amps)
• \( \Delta T \) — Temperature rise (°C)
• \( w \) — Plane width (meters)
• \( t \) — Plane thickness (meters)
• \( k \) — Material constant (0.048 for outer layers, 0.024 for inner)

Explanation: The formula accounts for heat dissipation through the copper plane based on its cross-sectional area and acceptable temperature rise.

3. Importance of PCB Current Calculation

Details: Proper current capacity estimation prevents overheating, ensures reliable operation, and meets safety standards.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter temperature rise, plane width, thickness, and material constant (default 0.048 for outer layers). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's a typical temperature rise value?
A: Common values are 10-20°C, but depends on application requirements and safety standards.

Q2: How does plane thickness affect current?
A: Thicker copper (e.g., 2oz vs 1oz) significantly increases current capacity.

Q3: When would I use the inner layer constant?
A: Use k=0.024 for internal power planes that have less heat dissipation than outer layers.

Q4: Does this account for multiple planes?
A: No, this calculates for a single plane. For multiple parallel planes, sum their individual capacities.

Q5: What about high frequency effects?
A: This formula is for DC/low frequency. At high frequencies, skin effect reduces effective current capacity.