Current Divider Calculator
Enter total current and branch resistance values to estimate ideal current division in a fixed-resistance parallel circuit.
- Total conductance
- S
- Equivalent resistance
- ohm
- Estimated parallel voltage
- V
- Branch current 1
- A
- Branch current 2
- A
- Branch current 3
- A
Calculation details
- Branch current total
- A
- Calculation basis
- Component boundary
Recent results
Formulas
- Branch conductance = 1 / branch resistance for each active branch
- Total conductance = sum of active branch conductances
- Branch current = total current x branch conductance / total conductance
- Equivalent resistance = 1 / total conductance
Use this calculator
Estimate how total current divides across up to three parallel resistance branches.
Read the result
Review the calculated values with their displayed units and assumptions. The result is a planning aid for the stated inputs, not a final equipment or installation decision.
Check before final work
This current-divider estimate uses ideal fixed-resistance branches. It does not model tolerance, temperature, nonlinear loads, AC impedance, component ratings, fault current, conductor sizing, or code compliance.
FAQs
Why does the lower resistance branch get more current?
In an ideal parallel network, lower resistance has higher conductance, so it receives a larger share of the total current.
Can this choose resistor wattage?
No. It estimates ideal branch current only. Check voltage, power, tolerance, temperature, and component ratings separately.