1. What is AC Average Power?

Definition: This calculator computes the real power in an AC circuit based on RMS voltage, RMS current, and power factor.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers and technicians determine the actual power consumption in AC circuits.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( P_{avg} \) — Average power (watts)
• \( V_{rms} \) — Root mean square voltage (volts)
• \( I_{rms} \) — Root mean square current (amps)
• \( PF \) — Power factor (unitless, between 0 and 1)

Explanation: The product of RMS voltage and current gives apparent power, which is then multiplied by the power factor to get real power.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for circuit design, energy efficiency analysis, and proper equipment sizing.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the RMS voltage in volts, RMS current in amps, and power factor (default 1.0 for purely resistive loads). All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is power factor?
A: Power factor is the ratio of real power to apparent power, representing the phase difference between voltage and current.

Q2: What's a typical power factor value?
A: For purely resistive loads it's 1.0, for inductive loads (like motors) typically 0.7-0.9, and for capacitive loads it can be leading.

Q3: How do I measure RMS values?
A: Use a true-RMS multimeter or calculate from peak values (V_rms = V_peak/√2 for sine waves).

Q4: Does this work for three-phase systems?
A: For balanced three-phase, multiply by √3 (P = √3 × V × I × PF).

Q5: What's the difference between real and apparent power?
A: Real power (watts) does actual work, while apparent power (VA) is the product of V and I without considering phase.