1. What is Single Phase Power?

Single phase power is the distribution of alternating current electric power using a system where all voltages vary in unison. It's commonly used for residential and light commercial applications.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the power equation:

Where:

• \( P \) — Power in watts
• \( V \) — Voltage in volts
• \( I \) — Current in amperes

Explanation: This fundamental equation shows that power is the product of voltage and current in a single-phase AC circuit.

3. Importance of Power Calculation

Details: Accurate power calculation is essential for circuit design, electrical safety, energy efficiency, and proper equipment sizing in electrical systems.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter voltage in volts and current in amperes. All values must be positive numbers. The calculator will compute the power in watts.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between single-phase and three-phase power?
A: Single-phase uses one alternating voltage, while three-phase uses three voltages offset by 120°. Three-phase is more efficient for heavy loads.

Q2: Does this account for power factor?
A: No, this is the apparent power calculation. For real power in AC circuits, multiply by power factor (P = V × I × PF).

Q3: What are typical single-phase voltages?
A: Common single-phase voltages include 120V (North America), 230V (Europe), and 240V (Australia).

Q4: How does this relate to energy consumption?
A: Energy is power multiplied by time (kWh = kW × hours). This calculator gives instantaneous power.

Q5: Can I use this for DC circuits?
A: Yes, the P=VI formula works for both AC and DC, though for AC it gives apparent power unless power factor is considered.