PCB Circuit Trace Width

This Javascript web calculator calculates the trace width for printed circuit board conductors for a given current using formulas from IPC-2221 (formerly IPC-D-275).

Inputs:

Current:

Amps

Thickness:

Optional Inputs:

Temperature Rise:

Deg

Ambient Temperature:

Deg

Trace Length:

Results for Internal Layers:

Required Trace Width:

Resistance:

Ohms

Voltage Drop:

Volts

Power Loss:

Watts

Results for External Layers in Air:

Required Trace Width:

Resistance:

Ohms

Voltage Drop:

Volts

Power Loss:

Watts

PCB Circuit Trace Width refers to the physical width of the conductive paths (traces) on a Printed Circuit Board (PCB). These traces carry electrical signals and power between different components on the board. The width of a trace is critical because it determines the amount of current the trace can handle without overheating and affects the electrical characteristics of the circuit, like resistance and impedance.

Key factors influencing PCB trace width:

Current Capacity: Wider traces carry higher currents.
Thermal Management: Narrow traces heat up more quickly under high current.
Voltage Drop: Thinner traces have higher resistance, leading to more voltage loss.
Signal Integrity: Trace width can affect impedance and signal performance, especially in high-frequency circuits.
Trace width is usually calculated based on the required current, copper thickness (measured in ounces per square foot), and the acceptable temperature rise. PCB design tools often have calculators to determine the right width based on these factors.