Ohm's law
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Calculate voltage, current or resistance. Enter any two values and leave the one to find blank. It also shows the power dissipated.
Calculation
Leaves empty the value to calculate. Enter the other two.
Practical examples
Red LED: Vf=2V, If=20mA. Series resistor: R = (5−2)/0.02 = 150 Ω. Use LED calculator for E12.
12 V across 470 Ω: I = 12/470 = 25.5 mA. Power: P = 12×0.0255 = 306 mW → use a 0.5 W resistor.
With 9 V and 45 mA → R = 9/0.045 = 200 Ω. Nearest E12 value: 220 Ω.
Quick table — R from V and I municipalities
| V | I | R | P |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5V | 20 mA | 250 Ω | 100mW |
| 5V | 100 mA | 50 Ω | 500mW |
| 12V | 20 mA | 600 Ω | 240mW |
| 12V | 1 A | 12 Ω | 12W |
| 3.3V | 10 mA | 330 Ω | 33mW |
See also
Frequently asked questions
What is Ohm's Law?
V = R × I. Voltage in volts, resistance in ohms, current in amperes. Also: I = V/R and R = V/I.
How do I find current through a 470Ω resistor at 12V?
I = V/R = 12/470 = 25.5 mA. Power: P = 12×0.0255 = 306 mW.
How do I calculate power dissipated by a resistor?
P = V × I = V²/R = I²×R. If P > 0.25W, use a 0.5W or higher rated resistor.