PCB Trace Width Calculator: Design for Optimal Current & Temperature Resilience

Determine Optimal PCB Trace Width

Calculated Trace Width

Required Trace Width (mil):

Required Trace Width (mm):

Results are based on IPC-2221 (external/internal trace) recommendations.

Use our advanced PCB Trace Width Calculator to precisely determine the required trace dimensions for your circuit board designs. This tool helps engineers and hobbyists prevent overheating and ensure reliable power delivery by adhering to IPC-2221 standards based on current, temperature rise, and copper thickness.

Formula:

The calculator utilizes an adapted version of the IPC-2221 standard (formerly IPC-D-275) formulas to determine the required trace area and subsequently the width for your PCB design.

Formula:

Area (mils2) = (I / (k × ΔTb))1/c

Width (mil) = Area (mils2) / (Toz × 1.378)

Where:

  • I = Max. Current (Amps)
  • ΔT = Allowable Temperature Rise (°C)
  • Toz = Copper Weight (oz)
  • k, b, c = IPC-2221 Constants (depend on trace location)
    • External Traces: k = 0.048, b = 0.44, c = 0.725
    • Internal Traces: k = 0.024, b = 0.44, c = 0.725
  • 1.378 = Conversion factor from oz to mil (1 oz ≈ 1.378 mil)

Electronics and Design Tools

3D Printing Filament Cost

Go to Calculator

3dB Bandwidth

Go to Calculator

3dB Bandwidth

Go to Calculator

555 Timer : Design Astable & Monostable Circuits

Go to Calculator

Audio Bitrate Time : Estimate Recording Duration and File Size

Go to Calculator

Battery Capacity Discharge Time

Go to Calculator