Series Parallel Circuit Resistance Calculator

Total Resistance Formula:

\[ R_{total} = \sum R_{series} + \frac{1}{\sum \frac{1}{R_{parallel}}} \]

Total Resistance (ohms):

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1. What is a Series Parallel Circuit Resistance Calculator?

Definition: This calculator computes the total resistance in a circuit containing both series and parallel connected resistors.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers, technicians, and students analyze complex resistor networks.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ R_{total} = \sum R_{series} + \frac{1}{\sum \frac{1}{R_{parallel}}} \]

Where:

\( R_{total} \) — Total circuit resistance (ohms)
\( R_{series} \) — Resistors connected in series (ohms)
\( R_{parallel} \) — Resistors connected in parallel (ohms)

Explanation: Series resistors add directly, while parallel resistors follow the reciprocal sum formula.

3. Importance of Resistance Calculation

Details: Accurate resistance calculation is crucial for circuit design, current flow prediction, and proper component selection.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter series resistors and parallel resistors as comma-separated values (e.g., "10, 20, 30"). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What happens if I leave one field empty?
A: The calculator will only compute the resistance for the provided resistors (either series or parallel).

Q2: Can I mix units (kΩ and Ω)?
A: No, all values should be in the same unit (ohms). Convert kΩ to Ω (1kΩ = 1000Ω) before entering.

Q3: How does the calculator handle zero or negative values?
A: Negative values are ignored. Zero values would create invalid calculations (infinite current) and are also ignored.

Q4: What's the maximum number of resistors I can enter?
A: There's no hard limit, but extremely long lists might cause performance issues.

Q5: Does this work for AC circuits with reactance?
A: No, this calculator is for DC circuits with pure resistance only.