Series & Parallel Resistor Calculator
Calculate the total resistance of resistors connected in series or parallel configurations.
Calculated Result
Circuit Diagram
Understanding Resistor Combinations
Series Connection
RT = R1 + R2 + R3 + ...
In series connections: - Total resistance is the sum of individual resistances - Same current flows through all resistors - Voltage is divided across resistors
Parallel Connection
1/RT = 1/R1 + 1/R2 + 1/R3 + ...
In parallel connections: - Reciprocal of total resistance equals sum of reciprocals - Same voltage across all resistors - Current is divided between resistors
Understanding Resistor Combinations
Key Concepts
Series Circuits
- • Total resistance increases
- • Current is the same through all resistors
- • Voltage drops add up to source voltage
- • Used for voltage division
Parallel Circuits
- • Total resistance decreases
- • Voltage is the same across all resistors
- • Currents add up to total current
- • Used for current division
Common Applications
Voltage Division
Creating specific voltage drops in circuits.
Current Control
Managing current flow in different branches.
Power Distribution
Controlling power dissipation across components.
Design Considerations
Power Rating
- • Calculate power dissipation (P = I²R)
- • Choose resistors with adequate ratings
- • Consider temperature effects
- • Add safety margin to ratings
Tolerance Selection
- • Use 1% for precision applications
- • Consider temperature coefficient
- • Account for aging effects
- • Match tolerances in critical paths