Thevenin Equivalent Circuit Calculator

Thevenin Resistance Formula:

\[ R_{th} = \frac{V_{oc}}{I_{sc}} \]

Thevenin Resistance (R_th):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is a Thevenin Equivalent Circuit Calculator?

Definition: This calculator determines the Thevenin resistance of an electrical circuit based on open-circuit voltage and short-circuit current measurements.

Purpose: It helps electrical engineers and students simplify complex linear circuits to their Thevenin equivalent for analysis.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ R_{th} = \frac{V_{oc}}{I_{sc}} \]

Where:

\( R_{th} \) — Thevenin equivalent resistance (Ω)
\( V_{oc} \) — Open-circuit voltage (V)
\( I_{sc} \) — Short-circuit current (A)

Explanation: The Thevenin resistance is calculated by dividing the open-circuit voltage by the short-circuit current.

3. Importance of Thevenin Equivalent

Details: Thevenin's theorem allows simplification of complex circuits to a single voltage source and series resistance, making circuit analysis much easier.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Measure the open-circuit voltage (V_oc) and short-circuit current (I_sc) of your circuit and enter the values. All values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is Thevenin's theorem?
A: It states that any linear electrical network can be replaced by an equivalent circuit with a single voltage source (V_th) and series resistance (R_th).

Q2: How do I measure V_oc?
A: Measure the voltage across the output terminals with no load connected.

Q3: How do I measure I_sc?
A: Measure the current when the output terminals are short-circuited (use caution with high-power circuits).

Q4: Does this work for AC circuits?
A: Yes, but you need to use phasor values for V_oc and I_sc and consider impedance instead of just resistance.

Q5: What about Norton equivalent?
A: The Norton resistance is equal to the Thevenin resistance, and Norton current is I_sc.