About

Analyzing DC circuits requires systematically reducing complex resistor networks into a single equivalent resistance. This tool solves mixed Series and Parallel circuits (up to 5 branches) by applying Ohm's Law and Kirchhoff's Rules. Unlike standard calculators that only output the final answer, this solver provides a Logic Trace, explaining the order of operations.

Use this to check homework, verify prototypes, or dimension power resistors. It calculates the Voltage Drop (V), Current (I), and Power Dissipated (P) for every component in the network, ensuring you don't exceed component wattage ratings.

Formulas

For any individual component, Ohm's Law applies:

V = I × R

Power dissipation is calculated to ensure safety:

P = I² × R = V²R

Reference Data

Parameter	Series Circuit	Parallel Circuit
Current (I)	I_total = I₁ = I₂	I_total = I₁ + I₂
Voltage (V)	V_source = V₁ + V₂	V_source = V₁ = V₂
Resistance (R)	R_eq = ∑ R_i	1R_eq = ∑ 1R_i

Frequently Asked Questions

Equivalent resistance is the single resistance value that would draw the same amount of current from the voltage source as the entire complex network of resistors combined.

Resistors dissipate energy as heat. The rate of this dissipation is Power (Watts). If the calculated power (P) exceeds the resistor's physical rating (e.g., 0.25W or 5W), it will overheat and burn.

No, this is a DC (Direct Current) solver. AC circuits involve frequency, capacitance, and inductance, which require using complex numbers and impedance (Z) instead of just resistance (R).

The tool uses Nodal Analysis logic. It first collapses the circuit to find Total Current, then works backward to distribute that current according to Kirchhoff's Current Law.